Dear Mr Darwin,

I have just received a letter informing me that there is quite a commotion in Downe about my absence & that there are all kinds of wicked reports & misrepresentations about me— I will briefly explain— I left for a change of air intending to return in 3 weeks, but I was induced to remain as I had some old friends who kindly took me about in their yacht & otherwise made it pleasant to me— my Doctor also recommended me to rest myself for 3 mths— I did not think it necessary to write and explain this, as there is nothing unusual in a Clergyman being absent on account of his health provided the duty is done— the wretched & miserable lodgings at Downe was also an additional reason to me to prolong my stay—²

You are probably not aware that almost immediately before coming to Downe I had lost my Father & Mother (at 80) & Sister &c &c &c &c, & had sustained the loss of several thousands— in [Companies]—in short I had several severe trials wh could have been the death of many men, & the miserable kind of life I spent at Downe & the want of all domestic comforts was most prejudicial to my health & spirits & made a change necessary—³ otherwise I was perfectly well—

After what I have heard I dont think I shall return to Downe at all— it is not true to suppose that the Curacy is of any consideration to me.— I do not hesitate to say that it is a loss— I am quite tired of Curacies & dont think I shall ever take another. I am now in negotiation for the advowson of a Rectory of £1100 per ann with immediate possession with the exchange of my own at £1000 with deferred [possn] on a life of 58.— the difference in value represents some thousands—& I am not quite sure yet whether it will be successfully arranged—⁴

I believe I have some balance belonging to School acc^t— I have not collected Sir John’s trust money— I dont think it has been paid—except you might have received— will send as cheque or money for balance⁵

I am writing in great haste I trust M^rs Darwin & family are well & with kind regards— | Believe me | Yours Very Truly | S. J. O Horsman

P.S. I hear that Sales,⁶ has circulated the report that I have defrauded him of a considerable sum of money. I left my horse in his charge, & sent to him sometime ago to sell her—& I just learned that he has not done so— no doubt with the intention of making up a bill against me—

Pray excuse my troubling you with these private matters