WCP263

[1]

Parkstone, Dorset.

May 2nd. 1895

My Dear Violet¹

Ma² has written today to ask Eleanor to come. As to the book, I sent for the one you ordered. It had to be sent for to America. You had better write direct to the American publisher enclosing a P. Order for the money.

I send you some flowers from the garden & a sample of my orchids. The big bunch was withering so I cut it. There have been 4 like it & the effect was [2] grand. I will try & go to Mrs. Evans after the last Exam.³ meeting & take some plants with me home.

I have been, & am, very busy, having had endless trouble getting my greenhouse blinds &c. — to work, & cannot get anybody to help me. Then I have reviews to write & endless letters & Exams coming, & almost [3] too much chess!, and my orchids take me about 3 hours every day — so I really cannot send things for you — but perhaps Eleanor will get them & pack them when she is here.

A few weeks ago I had the expected news of the death of my poor brother⁴after months of dreadful pain. For the [4] last month he could take no food but an egg beat up with coffee or wine twice a day.

Adieu | Your Affectionate Pa | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]

P.S. Of course A.M. can come but you must arrange when &c. you must be here.

A.R.W.