My dear Fox

I anticipated from your former letter that your mother could not possibly survive long.¹ You must yourself have been quite prepared; but when the blow comes it is always shocking. Pray give my kindest remembrances & sincere sympathy to your sisters. What a happy time I once spent at Osmaston.² How all things are changed for us in this world.—

I am extremely glad that you going to attend to your own health; for I am sure it must want care, after all you have gone through. D^r Lane’s address is “Moor Park, Farnham, Surrey”.³ He has two tarifs, 4 guineas per week for the better & larger bed-rooms & 3 guineas for the smaller, but I believe these are good.⁴ There is Bathman to add, & 5^s per week if fire in Bedroom.— I think if anyone goes as friend it is only 2 guineas per week— I do not think I have ever heard charge for man & wife.— Had you not better write to D^r. Lane; I would under similar circumstances openly.— I am sure they would be very glad to have you: for they were much taken with you.⁵ In my opinion it is a very nice place.—

It will be splendid if you come to see us at Ilkley.⁶

Believe me, My dear Fox | Your old & affectionate friend | Ch. Darwin