London, 14 December 1882 

My dear Laura, 

I received your letter last night at half past nine, too late even to 
send a line by this morning’s post, as foreign letters posted up here af- 
ter nine are not forwarded until next evening. 

I had scarcely any money in the house, and had given Percy? 
a cheque to cash for me today in town. But he will not be here before 
six at best, also too late to send you a banknote by 5.30 mail. How- 
ever as soon as I get the money I shall forward one so as to help you 
over the first few days. No doubt Paul will fare as Guesde and Bazin 
did and be at liberty if not to-day, at least to-morrow, as soon as the 
comedy of an examination before the austere Piquand shall have 
been gone through. I forwarded both Paul’s and your letter to 
Mohr, and told Nim* about the affair this morning. 

More anon, when I shall be able to send substantial comfort. 

Yours affectionately, 
F. Engels