From Emma Darwin to H. E. Litchfield [24 July 1879]

Dearest H.

I have just packed a beautiful big tin of roses for Miss Tilly. Bessy & I both forgot to gather any for you, but they are better bestowed & there are not many—

I am very glad you are going to have Hope—

I think it is almost insulting not to tell Snow; & it is not too late. She must be left out in the cold v. much in the nature of things; but this is going out of the way to inflict mortification; & she thinks she is v. fond of I. (do talk to Hope)— I am so glad to hear Laura's opinion about letters— It is the thin end of the wedge.

Yesterday was a charming day but not quite bright sunshine; today looks as bad as possible but the glass is still high, & we are continuing to mow—

I called in M^rs Ff. & sent her some plants & did a little cutting of laurels & ordered some v. decisive in our absence.

C. Langton, U. Harry & At Eliz. Come to luncheon today. Marg. Shaen comes tomorrow. We shall have no one as Leo. Is prob. going horse hunting

Send the enclosed to Geo. & Horace.

(Shall I send a line to Leo—to tell him of M. Shaen. I sh^d most particularly dislike raising his suspicions in any way; but I sh^d like to have him independently of all [gatak] propensities)—perhaps I shall have some letter to forward to him—

B. is v. sweet & partic. Nice to Ubbedy— The India rub. Were both v. m. too small & I have sent for one pr 2 sizes larger than the biggest—

Yours my dear | E. D—

It will be v. tiresome if you can't enjoy your Opera—