From Emma Darwin to G. H. Darwin 30 March [1887]

My dear George

S^t Jean de Luz sounds a most delightful place, especially with respect to the excursions. I direct this to Arcachon; but I doubt whether you will get it so I will make it short. Helen writes me such nice letters about Gwen, & I feel quite thirsty to hear her little squeaks—but I need not tell you about her— I am much better & go out twice a day in the Bath chair. I think this quite a pleasant place, perhaps in contrast to Brighton. I see that the dogs enjoy the sea side just as much as children & I sh^d like to have Dickey here to make so many pleasant acquaintances.

We probably return home on Monday, unless I find that I am still getting stronger when I may stay a few days longer— I gather that you will be returning about the same time. Arthur Balfour's opening speech was most powerful, & the dreadful facts & the way they were received by the blackguard (to put it mildly) Irish, put me in such a fever of indignation that I went out to calm my mind—

Gladstone is just as factious as the lowest radical tho' not so vulgar— Leonard is not yet confirmed in the appointment (to the same office but changed to last for 5 years more).

I hope Maud was not knocked up for more than a day— It was m. more cheerful to have made acquaintances there—

my best love to her—

yours my dear George | E. Darwin

I have engaged, I hope, a good servant & Jackson will be gone when I return.