MS of a paper called "Comments on Mr Darwin’s grand theory", which generally supports CD but proposes that present flightless birds are primitive. Paper supplemented by a diagram showing the phylogeny of birds.

Thanks MM for reference to Shakespeare’s eleventh sonnet.

HW has confirmed the report in the Times of a shower of fish (minnows and sticklebacks) that fell on the Wedgwood colliery.

Concerning specimens he wants collected in the Azores.

Provides another case of apparently pure bred pointers producing litter with one setter puppy. Correspondent was told that this occurred in several litters; gives names of owners and others who can corroborate the information.

Asks EAD to forward a message of Anne’s improved state to Down.

Tells CD how Anne’s death is affecting Emma. Hopes he may soon return.

Feels deeply for them at their "impossible loss" [of Anne].

Commiseration on the death of Anne.

Expresses gratitude to Mrs T’s daughter for devotion to his daughter in final illness.

Congratulates JD on discovery of fossil footsteps near Port Philip, Australia. Richard Owen would be glad to examine them. J. B. Jukes most likely to know geology of Port Philip.

Comments on concretionary bodies found by JD. Encourages him to continue geological study.

Suggests that JD consult with Edward Forbes about dredging.

Delighted he will look for fossil bones.

Asks him to look for Australian cirripedes.

James Wilson reports case of salmon hybrids.

Herrings inhabit freshwater lake in Scotland during winter.

JDH will edit juror reports for the Great Exhibition.

Discusses domestic affairs and gives some advice on manners.

Flora of New Zealand.

Reconsidering variability of insular species.

Becoming convinced of the probability that the southern flora is a fragmentary one – all that remains of a great southern continent.

Sends cirripede specimens for Ipswich Museum.

Asks how much a village fireworks display would cost.

Comments on the need in education for good habits of expression and accurate observation instead of making "wretched Latin verses".

Five questions on variability in peas.

W & JF recommended to CD by Mr Cattell.

CD planted an experimental pea garden this summer.

Is glad WED has made a good beginning [at Rugby?].

Thanks for his letter; hopes he is managing all right [at Rugby?].