Henry Crabb Robinson, 30 Russell Square, to Miss Cootts, 1 Stratton Street, Piccadilly, London, 1 January 1858.

Dear Miss Cootts,

       I know not how to thank you for the beautiful present I received this morning – I was never gratified by such a gift before – It sets the senses at war with one another And I shall have to make an effort to destroy the splendid Exterior, in order to become acquainted with the Interior –

       Recollecting the subject you spoke of when I made my last call – I am reminded that you are a rare example of exercising yourself, benevolence in both its forms – It is remarked that no theoretical moralist or psycologist [sic] as far as I know has ever pointed out a great distinction in the exercise of generous or kindly feelings – which nevertheless when noticed must be by all acknowledged to be a substantial distinction – being a difference at the same time    It is this –

       Some – take great pleasure in making the happy – more happy –.

       Others – delight in relieving the sufferings of the unhappy

 [f. 14v] Whoever has One habit in an eminent degree, will not be without the other also in some measure – But I know no one who like you would render it difficult to ascribe a preference –

       Of the partial and one sided beneficence I have striking instances within my memory Each has its respective attractions –

       May you my dear Madam live long to bless a suffering world by such vast works as your architect is labouring to lay before you And by which much affliction is softened – And at the same time not seem to extend your good nature to the old bachelors to whom notwithstanding their magnificence you have pleasure in gratifying I have just time to add a few words to your friend and companion And therefore conclude now with begging you to accept of my humble thanks –

                         being

                                               &c &c &c

                                                            H. C. Robinson

Miss B. Cootts

&c &c &c

Text: Add. MS. 85291, f. 14, British Library.