From Emma Darwin to Ida Farrer [late August 1878]

My dear Ida—

I conclude that it would be too late for Tom for you to come to us as late as the 19 & stay over the Sunday & if so I hope you will come on the 14^th & stay as long as you can— I think Bessy will be at home on the 15^th & we shall have a regular family gathering. We have been full of pity for your father & Tom, but today is lovely again— I have left a most precious pen knife in the hall or library white with a little paper knife at the end—

Bessy enjoyed her visit most heartily chiefly owing to you dear Ida—

She is always so doubtful about herself that any liking shewn to her is a real comfort & happiness to her.

The baby’s passion now is walking off to a certain cupboard where sweet soap is kept, snuffing violently all the way carrying off a piece to give to every one to smell, & now snuffing is rather a symbol with him of wanting to go some where or do something. We were lamenting that Miss Schau’s first letter from amongst the Paria Russians had not come before we left you. I hope you are going today to S^t Martha’s.

We shall be so glad to see you my dear Ida whichever day it is—

yours affectionately | E . D—