From Emma Darwin to G. H. Darwin [c. 5 September 1883]

My dear George

I was very glad to hear you were able to be at work again— I am very comfortable here; but it is bitterly cold—on a high hill with a fine rich view towards Harrow—

Ellen has been very ill; but is recovering chiefly owing to her good appetite, which has been the saving of her these many years— She is interested in all the houses that are building, chiefly because the Bridgemans are going to build on a very pretty estate left by the Arch. to Minnie— It is at the foot of the Long M^t in Shropshire, very much out of the way, & I m afraid they will miss the sociability of their present life.

I hear from Elinor that she liked her quiet days at Down & that she is a little better, & will continue her present diet— I will give her your message— B. was absorbed in painting flags, & asked her if she had a box w. 24 colours— After working hard for 2 days he made a smudge & grew dissatisfied with his picture & gave it up with the greatest cheerfulness— He had a delightful cricket match w. all the household & Old Price made runs & Parslow was umpire. Yesterday he went on the carriage to Croydon w. Bessy & Rasmus— It had long been his ambition I don't know why— Rasmus is very charming & constant to me— He looks so bright on the sofa when he catches sight of your photo & calls out Uncoo— Please to thank Ida for his photo— It is not pretty enough but has his wisest look— I go home on Sat— I hope you will be warmer at Netherhall.

Bessy is at L. H. P. & has not lost her cough—but meant to wear her warmest things   I shall find Frank there

I am reading aloud the Newcomes & have forgotten it enough to enjoy it—

How excellent M^me de Florac's letters are—

Goodbye my dear old man | E. D

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Euston

Ch. X— 1–40

Orp. 2.27