Autograph letter signed with initials : , London, to his father, 1863 December 21.

Discussing his father's quarrels with family members at home; saying that he understands from his letters "...that matters do not go on as amicably between you and some of the household as could be wished. I believe there is some text which sets out, as a greater miracle than breaking the mountains, or overthrowing armies, 'the making kinsfolk to be of one mind in a house', and one does not expect miracles, but I think a little forbearance, and mutual allowance, such as worldly people make for one another as matter of course & of courtesy, might prevail in a household where there is so much appeal to higher influences. It adds very much to my concern for you, to know that what, if I were writing to any one else, I should call unseemly quarrel, arises, disturbing the comfort of the Manor House, & I really put to you as fair question whether one's faith is in the real value of scriptural talk is likely to be much strengthened by perceiving that general love for mankind is compatible with an absence of kindness to individuals. What I consider of more consequence than this speculation is an atmosphere of discord must be injurious to your health, to promote which I am always making what exertions are in my power. If you wish an arrangement made by which you can have fires in your own room &c you have only to say so to me, and I will manage the arrangement, but it surely need not be forcibly brought about. I do not want you to take any notice of this note (except as to the fires) to me, or to any one else, but just consider what I have said in the affectionate way natural to you, and make things pleasant to the ladies, especially at this time when we are all supposed to be on the best terms with ourselves & every one else...There is nothing in the papers today. I shall send an Illustrated News to the Manor House as soon as I can get one, but the sale has been so enormous that there has to be a reprint. You will duly receive the Almanac. I am the 'Growling Bard,' who writes in close imitation of Tennyson's In Memoriam;" saying he will attend to his notes about the photographs and adding that he "need not keep one for Sophy, as her mind is not towards her family, or anything else except [illegible] verses with a quaint profanity in them;" concluding that he will write again before Xmas and "This note is merely an interpolation in parenthesis."