My dear Darwin

I met Lyell in Waterloo Place today walking with Carrick Moore—and although what you said the other day had prepared me I was greatly shocked at his appearance and still more at his speech¹   There is no doubt it is affected in the way you describe and the fact gives me very sad forebodings about him— The Fates send me a swift & speedy end whenever my time comes— I think there is nothing so lamentable as the spectacle of the wreck of a once clear & vigorous mind!

I am glad Frank² enjoyed his visit to us— He is a great favorite here & I hope he will understand that he is free of the house— It was the greatest fun to see Jess & Mady³ on their dignity with him— No more kissing I can tell you.— Miss Mady was especially sublime.

Six out of our seven children have the whooping cough— Need I say therefore that the wife⁴ is enjoying herself?

With best regards to Mrs Darwin & your daughter—(and affectionate love to Polly)⁵

believe me | Ever yours faithfully | T. H. Huxley

26 Abbey Place | N.W

July 30. 1871