From Emma Darwin to H. E. Litchfield [24 January 1882]

Dearest Hen.

Here is a new kettle holder for you, worked by Snow! & very well worked too— It was a bag— About the cream jug I feel that they will have every bit of plate possible, but still it is a nice sort of little thing. How w^d a very elegant little tea set of China for p.m. tea— In fact it does much matter—

Goodnatured Mrs Ritchie added another to the long list of those mortally offended by Marian— She never means to address her again, but if M. comes up to her she will be civil to her— That splack nack Leo. Huxley is said to be engaged to Miss Arnold of Oxford & I think he can't be 19/—!! Mrs R was so effusive—when she went away with the tears in her eyes that I felt I could not properly respond— Frank liked her very much too— The 2 gents had a long game of lawn T. on Sunday & thought the court improved the game much.

What an extra. household that is at Melcombe Place—& what a funny little woman. I think the maids will find a change when you appear—

Conny is most gracious about the jug—

Mrs Ritchie admired the ""Bird Talisman so m. that I mean to get it printed— Fr used to adore it too— What a nice letter of Hope—& what a sad life Godfreys is now— The new horse wd have half paid for a new man— I don't believe in Laura's theory of secrets—