From Emma Darwin to Ida Farrer [September 1879?]

My dear Ida

I have had long talks w. Bessy about every thing & I feel that her having seen you is part way towards seeing you myself— She gave me your dear little message & I do feel that if any thing could make me wish more for the end of this; it is that I feel sure that you love me; & that is a very sweet feeling for the old to have about the young.

Bessy’s acct of Horace’s style of correspondence w. you makes me not the least surprized that he does not write to me. Bernard was greatly pleased at your sending him the apples— I don’t think him quite so charming as he was; but yr Uncle said today “Hanged if that little chap does not get nicer every day— I don’t know what he will come to.” I must keep up the story of “Meet Idy”—till the reality takes place—

Poor Effie! I have no doubt you have said to her all that can be said to comfort her; but I feel inclined to tell her that you will not be lost to her; only the relation changed.

You will not make part of her daily life (& that no doubt is an irreparable loss) but I am sure she will feel after this is over that a strain is over & a wall thrown down & that she will find her happiness in yours—

Henrietta is perhaps not a fair sample of a married daughter; as we see her so constantly; but I do feel that she is more thoroughly a comfort to me than before her marriage, & that her affection is warmer (tho’ it was v. strong before)—

yours my dearest Ida | E.D—

I quite agree to what you told B. that you had better only write to Horace—

Your Uncle has been in hopes of hearing from your F.