From Emma Darwin to G. H. Darwin 7 August 1894

My dear George

I rec^d Boy's capital letter— His hand writing & spelling are wonderful. I think he might begin to write on a single line— Theodora leaves us today rather unwilling to go to M^rs Sam Ashburner & Mrs Richards at Deal, which is I believe an ugly place. Theo is a v. pleasant guest & I believe she liked the quiet here after her bustle— I hope Leonard has had a quiet week owing to the gag; but I hear from Theo, that he did not approve of the decision of the Opp. not to attend at the H. of C. The Litches have gone to Idlerocks— I enclose Horaces letter to tell you of their very rainy doings—& Ida spraining her ancle— I have just got your letter & I will send you the next one I have of Leo's. I am expecting every day to hear of Lady Derby's couching having taken place.

Bank Holiday began w. such a fog yesterday, but the p. m was fine & B. & Theo went a drive w. the key in Holwood— The only gaiety I heard of or saw was a game of cricket in M^rs Smith's field. I shall be glad when you are safe at Marlboro' & I hope Maud will have a saloon carriage— It makes such a difference having a comf— soft sofa— yours my dear G— my love to all—

yours | E. Darwin

Aug. Hare's "2 noble lives" is v. interesting & amusing— It consists of the letters of 2 daughters of Lord Stuart de Rothesey Lady Canning & Lady Waterford in v interesting time   There is an ex. article in the Nat. Rev. by Miss Spinner. I shall get the "Study in colour"

P. S. Your long letter & M's just come— Poor dear little man! but how well he is recovering. I wonder M. c^d remember $\frac{1}{2}$ of his questions.

They are v. remarkable. I am so glad he escaped any bowel complication. Poor M^r H. M. Taylor— No doubt he can't employ his hands— this w^d be a g^t mitigation to me of such a heavy misfortune

I hope I shall see Gwen's work in the course of time   I will keep the secret