To Emma Darwin   [27–8 May 1848]

My dearest dear old Mammy—

I was so very glad to get your letter this morning with as good an account of the Baby, as c^d be expected. Poor dear soul you must have had a miserable night on the night of the fit. I am so thankful you had Elizabeth with you; for she of all human beings would be of the greatest comfort to you. Her presence is a blessing & joy to everyone.— I am weak enough today, but think I am improving. My attack was very sudden: it came on with fiery spokes & dark clouds before my eyes; then sharpish shivery & rather bad not very bad sickness. I got up yesterday about 2, & about 7 I felt rather faint & had a slight shaking fit & little vomiting & then slept too heavily; so today am languid & stomach bad, but do not think I shall have any more shivering & I care for nothing else. Susan was very kind to me, but I did yearn for you. Without you, when sick I feel most desolate. I almost doubt whether I shall be able to travel on Monday; but I can write no more now. Old M^rs Sneyd¹ is dead: my Father feels most deeply it. Otherwise he is comfortable. Catty’s account of Betley² is not very cheerful.

Sunday. Again I thank you for a most nice note, with so good an account of the poor Baby. I kept improving gradually all yesterday; but had too sleepless a night, not getting to sleep till long after daylight—so that I am good-for-nothing today, but think I shall escape a shivering fit.— I have given up going tomorrow, partly for my own sake & partly as it would be more convenient to my Father on account of Mark.³ My poor Father had a wretched night last. I will write no more today, but will write again tomorrow. Oh Mammy I do long to be with you & under your protection for then I feel safe

God Bless you. C. D.—

Thank my dear Etty for her nice lit⁠⟨⁠tl⁠⟩⁠e letter & give my love to all our dear children, whom I shall be so glad to see again—