My dear William.

Taking the valuation of Claythorpe, at 13,500£ I have resolved to charge you in my Will (which I will at once have altered) 8500^£; so that you will in fact receive 5000^£ more than my other sons, as being eldest & more especially as Susan has bequeathed this estate to you.² But I think I mentioned to you that Susan clearly understood and agreed with my intention of deducting the value of the estate. As 4500^£ was advanced when you joined the Bank, the total deduction will be 13,000^£.³ As far as I can judge, by including what Aunt Catherine has left all you children, & if Uncle Eras bequeaths us any share,⁴ I expect you will receive on our deaths beyond the 13,000^£ about 10,000^£ in addition.— When you receive your whole rent you ought to save somewhat.— I request that you will soon consult your Solicitor about your will, for Land requires special notice in a will, & deliberate carefully what you think will be best to do with all property which you may die possessed of.—

I wish to God I could leave you better off, but I have not been extravagant or wasted our property.

My dear old son | Your affect. Father | C. Darwin

This note is miserably expressed & written, but I am tired.—