“I am very fond of dogs, birds, and all small pets—a passion not approved by my wife.”

A characteristic mixture of affection and self-mocking domestic humour. · Auto-Analysis

• Animals
• Humour

“I expect to do better work now than ever before.”

A striking expression of creative optimism late in his life. · Letter to Mr. Gray, 14 May 1895

• Achievement
• Hope
• Writing

“What I am anxious to explain is this: Mrs. Sanders told me last night, or rather tonight, that you had heard that I had said Miss Stephens needed two years more practice and teaching to become a good singer.”

Shows his willingness to explain and defend a potentially misunderstood judgement about another singer. · Letter concerning Emma Abbott's opera company

• Communication
• Music