From Emma Darwin to H. E. Darwin [21 October 1864]

My dear Body.

It is colder than ever. I am going today with Horace to call on M^r Reed & tell him about H. going to school. W^ms & Norgate have sent me 15/. worth of Miss Edgeworth, but I shall keep them I believe as they may be useful in the family. I shall only send one vol. to Louisa—

Also I missed sending back one vol. of the Brookes of Bridlemere & so back it comes & we have only 5 new vols— Hope's letter is so abstruse I doubt if I can read it. Your game with Cecil w^d be very immoral only I am sure the little dog knows it is a joke as well as any of you. I thought Miss P. was in the village but the call is well bestowed like Col. Newcome taking wine with Miss Quigley. the governess.

Miss Thorley says John has been very kind & helpful on this occasion. I wish he may not have interested motives. I guess you will go on Monday & you will find 5 days feel long enough. you will have so much time for chat. I feel vexed that Frank has not a nicer daughter I think having as good as no mother has been a disadvantage to her, tho' selfishness is the most difficult thing in the world to conquer & having such an unselfish sister as Amy might have been a lesson. This letter of Miss P. is not all crazy. I will look for the tune she wants. The ponds bear!!

Good bye my dear E. D.

I shall have a nice letter of A^t F. to send tomorrow