From Emma Darwin to G. H. Darwin 10 April [1889]

My dear George

The chicks came over yesterday very happy. They found Ras. & Ruth listening to a story; but that came to an end in romps, & they afterwards adjourned to the Orchard & played in the garden—

I fancy by what W^m said to Hen. that he was m. vexed at having to decline having the children, & it is sad to see an unselfish person like Sara, not able to control such absurd fidgets— She was very low at going. I am glad you & Maud are going to Basset. The time wil pass pretty quickly with him, what with the daily routine of business &c—

I am afraid you have cold weather again— I have been rather unwell since M^rs Ruck went, or I sh^d have been much tempted to the chicks to stay here. We have got Frances, & Bernard comes this ev^g. I am partic. comfortable w. M^rs Ruck & did not feel at all tired. It was a pity all of you being away, but I am sure she liked her visit—chiefly because she was well—& also m. interesed about you all & your children. She adored Frances & despised Nora. It is v. odd her liking to stay so long w. that rubbishy M^rs Davies, who only reads French novels & does not rouge.

It is nice to think of your being back this day week—

my best love to Maud

Yours dear G. | E. Darwin

Boy looks so well & big. Horaces new address | Villa Milanese Ventnor.