My Dear Mr Darwin,

Best thanks for your very kind letter, informing me of little “Bran’s” safe arrival and hospitable reception.¹ I ought to have acknowleged this trouble on your part before—but was accidentally prevented.

The hamper is not worth returning. I had no expense whatever in connection with the puppy’s dispatch to you.²

With best regards from Mrs Cupples to Mrs and Miss Darwin,³ and to you, I remain | Yours ever truly | George Cupples

Charles Darwin, Esq^r. | Down— | Kent—