From Emma Darwin to H. E. Litchfield [20 November 1880]

Dearest H.

Consider this letter & also please do send me back the clause in the will & tell me whether you think she meant to make my opinion about the servants only equal to an executor's or to be more considered— I should not be so much puzzled if my own opinion were as decisive as Ch. but I do not feel sure that £1400 is not handsome for the Miles, only I should very much wish part were sunk in an annuity. I went down yesterday & settled some books— The most pathetic thing I saw was the old parasol in its own place; but it did not tempt me to take it away—it would be little to me any where else & the maids might care for it.

Tony is rather pathetic too never barking & wanting notice so much—

But when I think what her life might have been this winter even with something like a recovery I feel nothing but joy—

F. does so enjoy B's contented happy face at luncheon— I wish we had him sooner— He does not the least care what he eats, & is very tidy— I think Mrs Ev—is putting her best foot foremost—

yours my dear | E. D