To George Allen

[Denmark Hill] 1st January, 1864.

My dear Allen,—I have not written, being quite unable to give you any accounts of myself, or any clue as to my possible plans. Perhaps I am getting a little better, but do not know, and at all events, I have not energy enough at present to carry out any of the plans I had about Switzerland. The people have disgusted me beyond endurance, and I find I have a painful association now with every place I have been staying at. Also, I hear on further inquiry that there is real danger—almost certainty—of goitre coming if one stays in Savoy in the winter; it will be of no consequence if you now bring your children home, or if I took you into Italy, but I must give up my Savoy plans.

This has unsettled and vexed me, and I cannot tell you what is likely to be my next notion. The etching is very nice—can't be better—and I send you the chiaroscuro I did (crumpled up) to go on with; but I don't think you will be able to finish without being near me.

Probably I shall just come about June for a little ramble about Sixt to Meillerie and then pack you all up, and bring you home again, unless you really like to fight it out with the climate, where there is less bise.

Meantime I wish you all health and happiness. I am to be at Denmark Hill for two months yet, and shall be perhaps able to answer a letter or two or get things for you.