Is correcting proofs for Expression.

Family news.

Has finished Expression.

His strength fails more and more; needs to rest every six weeks or so.

Murray will publish a second edition of the Journal [of researches].

CD has finished first version of South America.

A strange book, The vestiges [of creation (1844)] has appeared and some have attributed it to CD. He is "flattered and unflattered".

All at Shrewsbury glad to hear good news of Mrs Fox.

CD left Tuesday by coach and two days’ horseback ride to Cambridge. Goes to the Henslows’ that night.

CD finds the reading involved in "getting up all my subjects" almost "intolerable"; has had no time to write, or send insects, or catch any.

Glad WDF has heard of a curacy where he may "read all the commandments without endangering [his] throat".

CD reading very hard for his examination.

Too busy for beetles.

Trusts WDF will be in orders by Christmas.

Congratulates WDF on passing his examination for the curacy; hopes he will find it comfortable.

CD is pleased at his own good showing.

Asks about WDF’s examination, books, etc.

Has been in bed for some days with ugly head symptoms. "We are a poor lot."

Will leave Cambridge shortly after division; plans to return for next term. With so many friends, Henslow among the foremost, it will be pleasant.

Informs WDF of a shipment of birds ready to be sent by Baker.

Urges WDF to read Herschel’s essay [A preliminary discourse on the study of natural philosophy (1830)] in Lardner’s [Cabinet] Cyclopedia.

Has just finished new editions of Descent

and Coral reefs.

Is working on a book almost wholly on Drosera; thinks he has made some discoveries.

Will never have strength and life to complete more of the series of books related to Origin.

Asks for living plant of Utricularia and information on Pinguicula lusitanica. Gives notes on habitats.

CD expects pleasant spring term; will botanise with Henslow.

He is dreaming of going to the Canary Islands for tropical scenery.