In December 1836 Charlotte Brontë wrote to Robert Southey to confide her own literary ambitions. The famous poet replied in a kind, fatherly tone, advising the young woman to put aside her dreams of greatness: 'Literature cannot be the business of a woman's life: and it ought not to be.' Charlotte considered this advice carefully before writing back to thank Southey for his guidance. 'Once more allow me to thank you with sincere gratitude. I trust I shall never more fell ambitious to see my name in print; if the wish should rise, I'll look at Southey's letter, and suppress it.' This was a promise she had absolutely no intention of keeping.