From H. E. Darwin to W. E. Darwin [late July 1863]

My dear William—

Mama says she has never written to you at all so I daresay you have never heard that Aunt Cath. has got the Scarlet Fever. She has been very ill, but is better now & has begun to eat a little so I hope she will get on now. It is very strange two in our family having it at that age. Of course now the marriage now may be put off any time— I also think it is very likely the tour will not take place as Aunt Eliz. won't start till Aunt Susan is safe from infection & then it will be almost too late for Switzerland. We have got Edmund Louisa & Amy taking refuge here till Thursday when Mama Lizzie & Skimp go to Barlaston & Malvern to get a house for us. I am so glad Papa is going to Malvern. I think very likely it will set up Skimp too. He has begun a few lessons again—& doesn't find them such hard work as he did before.

I find Louisa quite agrees in the opinion of the world as to Cecily's selfishness— she told a very strong little anecdote to us yesterday. When Cecily paid them her long visit this summer John sent over his horse from Pater for the girls to ride. Cecily calmly assumed that it was sent for her & never so much as offered once

[at least 2 pages missing]

cruelty. several people have offered to subscribe or some thing [illeg] in Parliament

Ever y^r affec. | H.E.D.