Saying she is glad that he is spending his evenings in study. It would be most desirable for him to keep at his German, which might even get him some situation: "Mr. Ruskin was obliged ... to carry on a German correspondence for some years in the house he was in." And he might read some modern classical works that would give some of the information every gentleman should have: John agrees with her in advising Hallam's Literature of Europe in the Middle Ages, Herschel's Natural Philosophy, Milner's Church History. She is glad he got on so well with Mr. Gadesden, who she hopes may get him some nice situation. She agreed that Mr. Ruskin does not wish him in London, but this should not influence his plans. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ruskin speak of him kindly and evidently like him: only last evening Mrs. Ruskin recalled how careful he used to be about his clothes and the furniture. It is long since they have seen him and perhaps they don't realize how old he is. Now she would urge him to give attention to a gentlemanly manner, appearance, and address. Though "in Perth where all three ... are eminently neglected" he may think that they make a man ridiculous, here "the most talented and high minded men ... are ... most particular on these points. With his handsome person and taking manners with strangers, he can easily make himself agreeable, but he should not overlook "perfect neatness in your outward appearance." He would change his opinions were he to meet, in London, John's really good friends. Their house would be a nice place for him to come to when he wanted rest or enjoyment, and she would try to supply some of the many wants he would feel in leaving Bowerswell. She has his interests sincerely at heart. Her mother can send her napery whenever she wants, with the charges. Mrs. Ruskin was in town yesterday and says that Mrs. Bolding's child "is turning pretty now." Mrs. Bolding herself looks much better. Denmark Hill is now "a very Paradise with flowers."
