From Emma Darwin to H. E. Litchfield [February 1880?]

(a gent from Lincolnshire come to see F—so I am sitting in study & will fill up my time by going on w. my letter)— I will send you H. & Ida's letter—It is evident their life is most entertaining as well as happy & occupied. Alice told me that M^rs Sidgwick was m— charmed with her. I am so glad at what she says about Effie—I have no doubt that Horace painted the Miss Tennants a little highly for my satisfaction. I don't like the damp Belvoir house nor does F

My best love to Sara— Tell her only to do what is pleasant & not what is virtuous.

Poor B. had a great passion last night about being undressed— He had been playing all P.M. w. Alice & Louy & perhaps that overset him— He was pretty soon right w. Frank's help—

The new straight walk looks lovely now it is gravelled—

Yours my dear | E. D