My dear Hooker

I grieve to say that I cannot come & most heartily do I regret it, as I had set my heart on this lark.

My sister-in-law² is obliged to go to London tomorrow for two or three days & if I left home my poor wife would be lying in bed two whole days with nobody to look after or amuse her;³ so, though she wants me, I will not leave home. It is very vexatious, as there is so much I want to talk over with you, & I have for years wished to see the D. of D^s. gardens.—⁴

If Henslow is with you, remember me most kindly to him & say how I regret my forced absence.— In the course of a fortnight or so, I will propose myself, if you will let me, to come & stay a night with you.— I am truly glad that your affairs wear a more prosperous air, & I cannot but think it must have been better for all parties, your communicating, as you first intended, with Henslow. When you have a bit of leisure, do send me ever so short a note about the conference.⁵ I really grieve over my disappointment in not being with you, but I am sure you will think me right.

Ever yours | C. Darwin

I am extra well & my Boils are all nearly well.—

Tell me how near does the Richmond Railway⁶ come to you.