From E. S. Galton to G. H. Darwin? 10 September 1881

My dear Cousin

I only suggested to your Uncle Erasmus, that the picture you mention, might be William Darwin, Brother to Erasmus Darwin, as it was like the picture the Miss Fox's had (he being their Grandfather) or it might be William Darwin, Grandfather of Erasmus Darwin, who died very young—the year his Son Robert was born—

Reginald Darwin has the Portraits of Erasmus Darwin, ED's Father, Robert—& his Grandfather William, & he allowed us to have the photographs of them all, which I have got, & would lend you to see, if you can trace a likeness to the Picture you name. So let me know, if I shall send them to you—

Can it be a portrait of Robert, Son of Robert, & eldest Brother of Erasmus Darwin, the Squire of the family? Did you each hear of his one lone affair? His Parents were anxious he should marry and recommended a very charming young Lady in the neigbourhood as being very desirable, & whose family would like the match. Robert Darwin dressed himself with great care (perhaps in the very dress of your picture) and went in state to court the Lady— Nothing could be more gracious than his reception, and all went smoothly till after the early dinner— They had not gone far (attended by a Footman) when the Lady turned to the Man and exclaimed "Oh dear, John fetch me my Lappets" (a sort of headdress)—

M^r. Darwin unfortunately thought she put the comma after John, "Oh dear John, fetch me my Lappets"   He ordered his Equipage, made his bow and left, and never after thought of marriage— What a warning to put stops in their proper place!

It was your Uncle Erasmus who told me the picture was a Darwin—

Could not you ask my Brother Francis to photograph several Darwins, & see if the type resembled!

When I pay my yearly visit to Francis & Louisa in Rutland Gate I shall much miss my usual call at 6. Queen Ann Street—where your Uncle was always so pleasant & kind— Many & many will regret his loss— Please thank y^r. Mother for her kind letter to me

Your's very sincerely | Emma S Galton

Francis & Louisa left last Thursday for Vichy—a sudden resolve late on Wed^y. Even^g, as Louisa had a return of pain & thought Vichy waters w^d. cure her for a time—