Reports on errands he has done for RF. Has discussed with Beaufort the question of his having right to dispose of his collection.
Describes his appointment, the Beagle, his companions, and the objectives of the voyage. Gives his schedule before departure.
Thanks CTW for his letter [125]. "I do not think I ever received a more kind letter than yours or one that gave me so much pleasure.— You ought to have in your mind, the prospect of leaving England for 3 or 4 years before you can understand how to enjoy such a letter from such a person as yourself—". Regarding the voyage, "all is finally settled, & I have sealed away about half a chance of life.— If one lived merely to see how long one could spin out life,—I should repent my choice.— As it is I do not.—"
Thanks CTW for four fungi which have arrived.
Has collected [Phalli] in Shropshire and compared them with Barmouth species. Is convinced they are different.
Asks JSH for introductions to R. T. Lowe and Andrew Smith.
Has been given another week’s respite by FitzRoy.
CD’s luggage is frightfully bulky, though he has been as economical as possible. Has made financial arrangements for his expenses.
Plans to study mathematics during voyage.
Asks JSH to take charge of his consignments of specimens from the voyage.
Has just heard Beagle sailing is delayed so he will remain another week in London. Asks whether RF has a good set of mountain barometers, which geologists tell him are important.
Hopes to be able to help Cambridge Philosophical Society with his collections, but thinks most will have to go to British Museum.
Describes Beagle quarters, the surgeon [Robert McCormick, M.D.], and officers.
Asks JSH’s advice on studying mathematics.
Questions about his college bills.
Describes the living conditions he will have on the Beagle.
The outfitting of the Beagle progresses.
CD has been dining out more than he wishes. He has met W. S. Harris of "Electricity" fame.
His fears and hopes about seasickness.
A new continent has been discovered "somewhere far South". "Perhaps we may be sent in search."
Sailing date fixed for end of month. Beagle is beautiful. Details of instructions and route. Hopes voyage will not exceed four years. Quarters very confined. Considers Jenyns did wisely in not coming. If CD were longer out of college and some years older he never could have endured it.
Regrets that it will be impossible to visit Cambridge for some years. Reminisces about CW’s "classical Sunday evenings", the Glutton Club, and his friends.
"We spend about 2 years in S. America, the rest of time larking round the world."
Still delayed; will not sail until 5 December. Instructions have come, with proposed itinerary.
Confusion on board the Beagle at definite prospect of sailing. Gives directions for sending mail to Montevideo.
Valediction only.
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.
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.
CD expects pleasant spring term; will botanise with Henslow.
He is dreaming of going to the Canary Islands for tropical scenery.
Had a pleasant week in London and is now enjoying Cambridge, where he is busy with work and social engagements.
Writes with great enthusiasm of his prospective trip to "the Tropics" [Canary Islands]. Henslow will cram him in geology. He is working regularly at Spanish.