Marx was often beset by ill health not helped in this case by the London weather in January. In 1869 the fog would have been considerably increased by smoke from coal fires. Later in January Engels who was still based in Manchester at the family firm reported an outbreak of scarlet fever..
I put off writing to you from day to day because of a frightful
cold which, for ABOUT 2 WEEKS, has been absolutely besieging my
eyes, ears , nose and entire head . Since, however , this damned
foggy weather still gives no hope of an early delivery from the
evil, I shall wait no longer .
Marx to Engels 13th January 1869
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