From Emma Darwin to W. E. Darwin [17 September 1861]

My dear William

A most amiable letter from M^r Atherley saying he does not want you till about Oct. 1 because he will be so busy moving out of his old house that M^r Fall will do his work for him so if you like staying a bit longer at L.H.P. you wil have time at L.H.P. if you like. I don't send his letter as it may cross you on the road but here is the principal part which you must answer. "The 30^th Sep. or any day after wil suit me— we shall be very glad if you will come to us for a few days which will enable you to find something to suit, if you will not mind finding us perhaps not quite so comfortable as we c^d wish. Can I be of any service to you in looking out for an abode  If so pray command me. or in any other way I can be of service to you.

My abode after 27^th Sep. will be Heathfield | Bitterne | nr Southampton. Please address Southampton

We are going today to Westerham to hunt Linums if your father is well enough as he has been poorlyish lately. George thinks they had better not ask to come till the 28^th so now we will fix that. It is very nice to have you this fortnight & now I will send the Mudie box. There are a lot of letters to the Cap. did you see yourself & your 20 men in the Times. Tell Aunt Susan we are very sorry she can't come. Bring the girls with you if they will come

Yours dear W. | E.D.