“I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment.”

"A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart."

"I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine."

"I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now."