From H. E. Darwin to G. H. Darwin [1868]

Dear G.

I think ur Ma said she had written to u to tell u that you needn't come ag^st the grain & that we'll fight Ernest alone—

I'm v. sorry the Edmunds won't come. We have had a very jolly 3 or 4 days here, but boohoo I'm sure they aren't going to take me another ride, & I do so want to go—neither will they take us another drive which Lizzie & I sh^d. both like. U never saw anything so pretty as the country is looking now. Strickland is here again, that is again as regards me, calmly ruminating & smoking cigars on the lawn. There are also two slightly commonplace but harmless girls here. I like riding u. m. intrinsically & also it is the only way of seeing Edmund comfortably—

Lizzie & I are both better for our jaunt. I much better. It is a satisfaction to me to find that my exceeding g^t. cowardice on horseback lately is physical for I feel quite up to my accustomed somewhat low standard of courage here. I didn't screech or feel inclined to when Edmund neatly tumbled over his horses head. Praps you'll say that was want of sympathy, but it takes some courage to be hard hearted. Nobody was damaged. We go home tomorrow.

The Eds come to us early in June. How early do you expect to return to the bosom of your family.

Goodbye dear G. Have u been told we have got a pony. | yours H.E.D.

Second good acc^t., of Jemmy. William to Malvern again