From Emma Darwin to H. E. Litchfield [29 May 1880]

Ida has heard from Tom—& the upshot she desires me to tell you is that they will certainly be here on Sat; but they are not quite certain to be here on Wed or Thursday— She is extremely puzzled what to do as she dislikes taking the first overt step of avoiding Effie. We are (G. B. & I) going to dine at High Elms on Sat. to meet the Hookers & I want a new Shetland shawl to smarten me up. I should be so m. obliged to you if you wd get me one. I don't want to give more than 29—but leave it to you—& I believe it is worth while going to the Jermyn St Shop— Those I saw at Cav. House were rather common. Sir John & Sir David Wedderburne came to call on Sat—& who do you think came—the M'Lennans— He looking far better than when Geo. saw him last—

She seems dreadfully tired of their restless life—

I must go out w. F— So Goodbye my dear | E. D

I am inviting Ernest for Sat—

Poor Mrs [Hux]. is dreadfully tormented w. eczema; but I hope her gen. health is better.

Just got yours  We shall be most glad to have you tomorrow & the H's will certainly be here as they don't go to Abinger till next Monday—

I am glad you are going down to poor Laura—

yours my dear | E D