Madam,

I am requested by the School Committee to state that in answer to M^r. Darwin’s application permission is given for the use of the Infant schoolroom only adjoining Widow Laslett’s residence during the months of Jan^y. Feb^y. & March next for a Reading room.¹ Against this I protest most strongly on public grounds. I learnt at the Meeting that M^r. Darwin had addressed the Education Department on the subject. As I am the only recognized correspondent of the School, according to rule 15. Code 1871,² I deem such a proceeding quite out of order, especially as I myself had undertaken to communicate with the Office. For your information I now append, a Copy of the answer I received, which is, in my opinion, by no means favorable to your view of the case.³

I have only to add that there are several misstatements in the letters read at the meeting.

I am Madam, | Yr obed^t. Servt, | G.S.F.

M^rs. C. R. Darwin.