From Emma Darwin to W. E. Darwin [c. March 1852]

My dear Willy

Papa thinks he had better write to M^r Mayor about the whole holiday, so perhaps you had better say nothing about it.

I liked your account of D^r Goulburn's sermon. It must do the boys good I think

Parslow is going today to fetch a new dog. The foolish puppy we have got is reckoned too ugly & not a good house dog, but I am rather sorry to part with him, he is so good to the baby. Franky was brought down in disgrace a few days ago for scratching Lizzy. He crumpled himself up on Papa's lap & became so gumflustigated we were obliged to put him to bed at once. Mrs Ward brought some Indian birds preserved with cotton wool, not exactly stuffed. Etty & Georgy have left one of the prettiest for you, but they are none of them very pretty. Etty & G. are to go with Miss Thorley to see M^rs Ward who seems very goodnatured & fond of children. Papa is gone to London for two days & I & Etty are going on Saturday

Georgy is to drink tea at Aunt Sarah's one of the days. We have had pleasant bright cold weather.

Goodbye my dear Willy | your affect. mother | E. D.