This is the first mention of Rosie’s ill health. She appears to get anxiety attacks, which Sydney makes reference to in many of his letters to her. This was apparently a life-long condition that made it very difficult for Rosie through the coming years to cope with the demands of a young family.
61 Birchanger Rd,
Tuesday, Oct 15, 1895
My dearest Rosie,
I got your letter yesterday but I did not quite understand about your coming up. Will it be Friday or Saturday? I would rather you came to Croydon or Norwood if it is possible. But still, if you have to come up by a very slow train it is hardly worth while, is it dear? Cannot you catch the ten minutes to nine train and change at Sutton. That is a fast one. Only stops at Chichester. The one I came up by, I think it stops at Sutton. You would be able to find out better than I should. Anyway dear, do as you like. I will meet you wherever it is.
I suppose you are beginning to feel quite excited. Do not get over-excited and make yourself ill. How have you got over your bad attack? Quite well again, eh? You think I should get tired of you being home all day. You think so. Perhaps you are afraid of it. In that case, suppose I do go out and only come in to meals, eh? What would Rosie say to that?
Well, dear girl, I have nothing to write about. Let me know in good time about the trains. With fondest love from
Ever your loving Sid