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See small book - 1873-1874-1875

Venice Italy June 16th 1875. Hotel Aurora
I dreamily read over the last lines on the reverse of this leaf and think what a delightful thing to be ambitious.  No better antidote can be poured than standing as I have been doing upon the bridge connecting the Molo with the River and watch the moonlight glistening upon the grand canal interrupted occasionally by the shadow of a passing gondola.  I left Paris May the Eleventh and it was one month last Sunday morning since I arrived in this bewitching city. I will not deny its charm. yet the heat is infernal and any dissatisfaction at the blank result of these long days is perfect.  But who can resist the temptation of laziness. In the morning I awaken to see its broiling sun flaming into my window and the din from the River, can I be blamed for closing the shutters and in the shaded quiet room taking another doze, in spite of a merciless canon which tells Venice it is eight oclock.  When I awaken again it is nearly nine and warmer than ever which results in exceptional slowness at my toilette. Then up comes the good natured female, who is the counterpart of Manricos mother in modern costume without the trinckets, leaving my bread and milk.  When at last I go out upon the river box in hand on my way to the Ducal Palace or academy where I have worked. I feel as if life really was a struggle and the perspiration begins mildly to flow.  It is a long walk from here to the Belle Arts and some of the streets smell badly and the numerous Campo's one traverses are inflamed by the heat and I am glad when at last I descend the steps of the Iron bridge and enter the academy.  Finally I get to work at my sketch from that glorious Tintontto and in

Transcription Notes:
First line is in blue crayon