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Wallace, Alfred Russel & Wallace, Herbert Edward & Wallace, John in addressee 
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From:
Frances ("Fanny") Sims (née Wallace)
To:
Wallace, Alfred Russel & Wallace, Herbert Edward & Wallace, John
Date:
1 September [1845]
Source of text:
Natural History Museum, London: NHM WP1/3/93/7
Summary:

Gentlemen owners of the school property offer her headmistress post and a house, but she declines since “neither [brother] will come over and join me in my plans.” Robinson House will have nine rooms, with schoolrooms detached from the abode. Was teaching some entomology and “constantly thinking of you dear Alfred.” Asks if he knows about the mysterious “blood rain,” which was scientifically explained by crimson fluid left on trees at night by thousands of butterflies. Amused at credulity of black girls to whom she teaches reading Sundays on her own time. They think England must be a poor Country, as the Brits have no black people to raise their cotton, corn, and watermelons, and so have none. “Indoor Slaves are happy creatures when their Mistresses are kind, and wish for nothing better.” Includes separate note to Mama about her distress at being pressured to marry a local gent; ‘finally declined” his offer of marriage, as she does not love him.

Contributor:
Alfred Russel Wallace Correspondence Project