October 1, 1863. Cape Town. To “My dear Loui . . .”
Bleek writes that they do hope that Lucy has “again recovered from her last attack of weakness.” They are glad to hear that she has written to Dr. Mann concerning her health. Either Dr. Mann or Dr. Calloway should soon be visiting Durban, and they would like to think that she would not hesitate to consult one of them in person. Bleek goes on to describe Jemima’s daily routine, how the baby is doing, and mentions that he is still on vacation which is a great help under the circumstances. Jemima’s half sisters Nellie and Bella Lloyd are still with them and they are hoping that Nellie will be able to recommence her astronomy classes. They are looking out for a house, but think it very doubtful that they will find a more suitable one. Of his room at the Library, Bleek says that “They just began to put up the bookcases in my room, which looks rather smart, with a handsome chimney piece. The whole Library presents now a very different appearance, it’s outside being nearly completed. The last two years about £4,000 has been spent upon it as Parliamentary Grant. So I am almost all day at home.” Talking of Edith’s development over the last few weeks Bleek shares some of his observations with Lucy: “It is very interesting to observe the gradual growth of humanity in the little animal, for you must know (shocked or not shocked) that we are firm believers of the Development theory. Apropos, have you read the reverse of that doctrine in Kingsley “Water babies,” when he speaks of the degeneration of the Do as you likes” into “Habababoos”, as we call them. . . . In fact it is charming nonsense, though there are few people who will not find it silly. But Paterfamilias knows that also silly things have their rights.”