From Emma Darwin to G. H. Darwin 7 April 1888

My dear George

I have been lazy about writing because of my thumb; but I have not been ungrateful for Maud's very pleasant letters (2 nights ago 9^o of frost at the Observatory. E. wind very sharp but I get out in the sun, we are so sheltered in front here— I doubt about the move to E—bourne on Tuesday, & I am so well that I think sometimes I had better let well alone. W^m comes to us till Monday. I have no doubt they will be very glad to see you— Gwen's speech of "Is he ball was curious, as children think so little about "ballness". I sh^d try a little bribery about French—but I have no doubt the talking will soon come— M^rs Marshall called & was anxious to know how you liked it. I made much of the pretty walks, & slurred a little over the defects.

Bessy took B. up to see Little Lord Fauntleroy, which he much enjoyed in spite of the contempt inspired by learning that he was acted by a girl. He is very nice & pleasant, & not ennuied, tho' he won't read a line except the Field— Frank & Ellen enjoyed Paris heartily in spite of the cold— They had Duff & Cluff & Smith & went to 11 theatres. But Ellen did not get a gown wh. was wrong— Bernard's taste for neckties still continues & I hope it will spread to a little dandyism altogether. It will be nice having you at home again & visits from jolly little Gwen— I hope Charley is also getting to be jolly. Horace was quite cheered w. the prospect of Cannes— He will arrive there tomorrow by . . .