“We are very sorry to disappoint you, but indeed we cannot sanction your going to see the ‘Wizard of the North.’ I do hope and believe you will submit cheerfully to give up what it would make me very sleepless and unhappy to have you go to. Now get a victory and believe the disappointment all for the best.” “Though I am most decidedly better, it arises, I think, from _perfect quiet_, the least change or bustle brings on spasm or headache, or both. Carry had Punch, and thought you sent it. I don’t like it, I think it a vulgar paper, and don’t wish it sent. I don’t at all object to the ‘Illustrated News’ occasionally.” Apparently Sophy declined to sit down under this condemnation of her beloved Punch, for a fortnight later Mrs. Jex-Blake writes: “I will return both the Punches in the hamper. The last was capital.” * * * * * In May, 1855, a family holiday in Wales was proposed, and, as usual, the question was raised whether Sophy could be allowed to be of the party. There is no suggestion in all the correspondence that her Father ever wished to be rid of her company _except_ on the ground of his wife’s health. On May 23rd Mrs. Jex-Blake writes: “Daddy and I have a strong wish that you should see Wales, and it is truly painful to deny you such a pleasure and advantage but you see, dear, I can’t help my health, and the being so easily upset and made ill by worry. Indeed I am grieved to find you can fully understand this, for you say your head aches if you get excited; but, darling, strive to go on with your different duties and don’t get excited.... Now, sweetest, _assure_ me that you will try to be controlled by me, and try to fall into our habits, not always restless and having some grand scheme of your own that _must_ be carried out.... I do not ask you to promise, but if next week you feel you can, looking to God, _assure_ me you will to the utmost try to be a comfort and not break out in these violent excitements, which not only upset me at the time but haunt and disturb me at night,... we are wonderfully anxious to give you the pleasure, but meanwhile don’t be excited at school about it. Shall we not be happy at Bettws-y-Coed if darling So is with us and we _all_ consider each other’s comfort?” The microscopic school diary had for five months been non-existent; the imperious demand of this glorious anticipation called a fresh volume into being.