From Emma Darwin to W. E. Darwin [15 January 1879]

My dear W^m

I have been rather poorly for a few days w. a feverish cold which made your pleasant letter all the more welcome— I wanted to know how the Atherley visit had gone off— I don't believe you will make the exertion v. often. I wonder whether it was my friend the grey gown w. pink ribbon that received such a sanction

We are going to have awful doings on Sat—the Dyers & Crawley & Sister coming to stay & the C. Normans to dine & I wish it was over. How glad I am that Nan's wedding day is fixed— I think her health mt have utterly broken down, & what impertinence in the elder brother to interfere. I did read Grant Duff's article w. gt admiration & to my surprize like you for I always th^t him tiresome

Sir W. Harcourts speech is most effective. I judge chiefly by the elaborate contempt of the Standard.

I hope F. was a little dismayed about Mr Hoare & I think it will make him a little more cautious in giving his name— I did not know of the fatal deed till it was done—

That little goon Lily has written a letter on the 1^st day of her arrival full of complaints the fires are so small & there are no carpets in the bed rooms & the French girls are so dirty & deceptions I am vexed w. her & think you were all too kind to her.

Bessy is going to dine with Frank at the Forrests tomorrow much against her inclination; but she will not find that it makes any more necessity for intimacy. My best love to Sara. I have not got my letter to Grace Norton written yet; but I shall soon.

yours my dear W | E . D—

Horace is a good deal better & I hope will finish his job this week— He says it is the last he will undertake

Gorgeous silver invitations have come to Romanes wedding which Hen. said it required hers & R's united intellect to decline; but they seem to have done it well; by a rejoinder from Romanes saying he sh^d bring his lady to call & they had an excuse; but the chief reason was the necessity for a new gown—