From Emma Darwin to H. E. Darwin [30 June 1864]

My dear Body

I can't see why you sh^d return to London after the flower show in any case so that the carriage shall be at the Hotel Crystal Palace on Sat afternoon at all events unless I hear to the contrary tomorrow I asked for Rose & Mab also, so that if they come Reeves must be there also. I am glad you stay till Sat. These are the last wild oats of the season— M^rs Parslow has help now so she will easily manage.

Papa got better yesterday & I went after my wicked woman & several more. whereby I am headachy today but Horace is so fully occupied with his lathe that he does well & is gone to M^r Reed today.

Papa is brisk today. You will have heard from Miss Buob today. Tell Cath with my love not to bother herself about the flower show for the girls as I sh^d send for them early & they will be very happy here & taking 5 girls is no joke. I am very glad you saw Mack— Tommy nearly choked himself with stealing a bit of granny's meat but he went on again with spirit. Billy w^d not look at it.

Goodbye my dear— | It is quite cold—