From Emma Darwin to W. E. Darwin [January 1878]

My dear William

I seem fated not to pay my debts till after you are gone, however here is for Galumpus, who is gone today with the Litchfield's luggage & they in the close carriage quite prosperous, & very much hoping that R. may begin work next week— We feel very quiet & empty without you all—

We were such a large party when you were here that I did not see nearly enough of you & Sara in a quiet way, & it makes me doubly glad to think we shall be with you before very long. Sara does so suit F. she puts him in good spirits.

I hope she had a comf. sight of Theo. & did not kill herself in London—

Lewis is to come up today to begin painting the book shelves in a very few days I hope the grand move may be accomplished.

I feel that I shall more often turn in to sit with F. when there is room to turn round, & I must get him a new sofa— The schoolmaster has really absconded heavily in debt & with the school pence— also having destroyed part of the register, so that the Down school will not be able to apply for the usual grant for attendance.

We have invited little Miss Aitken to meet Theo. I hope she will come, but it is v. doubtful as I don't think M^r Carlyle ever thinks of procuring her relaxation or enjoyment.

My best love to my dear Sara— yours my dear W | E. D.

George keeps very tol. & goes to Cam. next week— I hope he will be able to work— F. is in a great furor of measuring plant movements & will be quite ready for a rest in a month's time