Hanover July 20. 1851

My dear Constance

On landing on the Continent I found harvest had commenced. The weather is fine, but northern Germany offers few objects to the view. Extensive plains succeed one another. The railways move slowly but are uncommonly punctual, the conductors appear to dread arriving one minute too soon or too late – I desired Watkins & Hill to send you a small box with pieces of various coloured glass, of which perhaps you can send one to Charles, the rest will serve to amuse him now and then in the holidays. A combination of green blue and orange is best for looking at the sun. The woods of north Germany are very gay with the flowers of Epilobium angustifolium commonly called French Willow-herb the leaves being something like a willow.

Adieu & write sometimes. I hope the weather is fine where you are. Here is it very bright & hot.

Your aff^te
Henry