From Leonard Darwin to Horace Darwin [30 August 1873]

Dear Jim.

So that your riled that I did not give a favourable report of yours. It was nice. See if a little vile flattery will set you square again. Keep cool because Ime drunk. I have just been lunching with the gunners and they gave me a chair with a back to it which I suppose was too much for me. Monday will not be such a good day as Tuesday or Thursday or Friday. Wednesday will be nothing. So if you dont intend to come many days, dont come on Monday. The only advantage of that day is that I may not be out, and can come and ride about with you perhaps. I have decided to accept New Zealand provided the core accepts me.

You must come over and see me in camp some day I am close to Hednesford station, but the Barlastonites will know all about that

Too drunk to write any more must sleep | balmy sleep. | Yours | Leonard Darwin