From Emma Darwin to Horace Darwin 19 February 1880

My dear Horace

You have been very good in writing I must say— That was a very choice family party you met at F. Balfour’s but you shd have told me what Ida wore, as I know she had no wedding clothes   I shd like to know that she looks nice— I will not say much about the blessed state of things at Thompsons Hotel. I have been forcing myself to keep back my letters of congrat & my hopes, but on the fourth day I may feel happy about it; & I had not the least hope of a girl; because I knew a boy w^d so dissuit Hope—

Now for the other affair, which on the whole makes me feel happy about Rose, tho’ I think there are things to make one anxious. But I believe him to be a good man, & Godfrey is satisfied about his caring for her. She wrote me a sweet open note, expressing her happiness & saying how she enjoyed a Monday Pop. with him (& Amy as chap.) the first concert she has had since she “came to life.” His musical career is also more hopeful than I thought it was— The famous Richter of Vienna having engaged him for the 2^nd time as leader for his London campaign.

Uncle Fr. took it very m. to heart, w. something of your doubts I think, & also Amy—but U. F is quite friendly to him now to Rose’s g^t joy. He seems to have been utterly blind all along, & thought Rose was overworking herself— I hope they will be married tol. soon, as Rose is so diffident & so anxious that it will not be a happy time for her. The only thing I shall pity “Hermann” for, is if she continues the violin; but I trust sewing on his buttons & mending his stockings &c will gradually make her give it up. & she is going to take to her singing & P.F. again.

I am afraid that heartless Lily has not followed Edward to W.H— She rivals & almost beats Lena. I am sadly afraid Arthur will not come home now, & Ellie & the baby are started. There are 6 Captains out of 8 invalided & they think he must be kept there; but I shd hope he will be somewhere else than that dismal [Peewar]—

yours my two dear ones | E D—

Marg^t was v— nice & pleasant & enjoyed her visit