From Emma Darwin to H. E. Darwin [2 August 1862]

My dear Hen

Alas! M^r E. is strongly against any of you coming home before you go to the sea, so we can only obey orders. He says now that the skin is peeling it is particularly infectious. I am not without hopes that we may met on Monday week at the sea, we shall judge in a or two as to how soon Lenny may move. If not I propose you joining the boys at Southampton which I think w^d be jolly & Brodie w^d like it much too. I will ask Erny about the play. I think Lord Dundreary w^d be best. Don't go to the Dead Heart. Take 5 places & stalls are the best. & the first day you can get good ones. Wiltshire will get them The ""Porters Knot they say is excellent I hope to take you myself. Lenny has been sick instantly after tea last night & tonight without the least discomfort, otherwise going on quite well. He slept more last night. We keep strict quarantine with Louisa so it is very dull for her, but she took to the plantains today. I mean to send her off as soon as we feel sure Horace won't want her. Does Brodie do at all to amuse him? I have had my talk with M^rs Parslow about Anne & she promises to do all she can to teach her & she thinks she will be quick to learn. I also gave Anne her douceur & told her of her promotion but that she was not to be lady's maid but turn her hand to washing & house-maiding or any thing & she quite agreed & was very much pleased. I shall try to yet her some hair dressing lessons as she is a quick girl.

Good bye my dear | Yours E. D.

Where is the key of your great box if I bring your blue gown?