Letter 388 (April 1873?) - no ms. Louise and Frances Norcross Emily Dickinson

Sisters,

I hear robins a great way off, and wagons a great way off, and rivers a great way off, and all appear to be hurrying somewhere undisclosed to me. Remoteness is the founder of sweetness; could we see all we hope, or hear the whole we fear told tranquil, like another tale, there would be madness near. Each of us gives or takes heaven in corporeal person, for each of us has the skill of life. I am pleased by your sweet acquaintance. It is not recorded of any rose that it failed of its bee, though obtained in specific instances through scarlet experience. The career of flowers differs from ours only in inaudibleness. I feel more reverence as I grow for these mute creatures whose suspense or transport may surpass my own. Pussy remembered the judgment, and remained with Vinnie. Maggie preferred her home to "Miggles" and "Oakhurst," so with a few spring touches, nature remains unchanged.

          The most triumphant bird
          I ever knew or met,
          Embarked upon a twig to-day, -
          And till dominion set
          I perish to behold
          So competent a sight -
          And sang for nothing scrutable
          But impudent delight.
          Retired and resumed
          His transitive estate;
          To what delicious accident
          Does finest glory fit!

                                                                                                              Emily.