Mary is now relieved from absolute oppression, and resumes her natural state. But the organs are not yet restored, and she has no appetite. The weather has improved, and I begin to hope for a favorable change. My day was rather wasted in long visits from different persons. Mr Lucas, the Editor of the Star came to ask questions about our affairs at home. I talked to him probably, and not disguising the critical nature of the trial through which we are passing. It is no longer military. The struggle is at home, with the more ignoble elements of our own society. Mr E B Elliot likewise came to talk of the meeting of the British Association next week, and to sound me concerning the fitness of taking part in any discussion of the war. I intimated my opinion clearly enough. Mr Elliot has published a curious and interesting paper on the sanitary condition of the army during the earlier period of the war. Mr W. P. Mangum is from North Carolina, for loyal man who has been serving as Consul in China, but is now returning home. He was likewise anxious to be informed of the state of things at home. I pity all this class of persons very much. It would be the depth of injustice for us to desert them. After these long conference I had time only for a walk which I took over Primrose Hill. Evening, Pepys, in which I am making great progress.