Reports peculiar behaviour in a fantail pigeon, which persistently courted a ginger-beer bottle.

"With Mr. Charles Darwin’s compliments enclosing one guinea."

Thanks for note concerning JP’s new book [Geology of Oxford (1871)].

Sends enclosure for Captain Jones.

Comments on essay by E. D. Cope ["On the origin of genera", Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 20 (1868): 242–300].

Will send back proofs of Origin 6th ed.

Writes about proof-correcting by WED [of Origin, 6th ed.].

Sends comments from himself and Erasmus Darwin on proofs of chapter 7 of Origin 6th ed.

Explains some proof-correcting symbols to be used by WED [on Origin, 6th ed. proofs?].

For CD’s approval, cites passage from CD note he wants to quote in a lecture;

pleads for CD’s moral support for FEA’s work in free-thought movement.

Sends $50 [dollars or pounds!?] because he wants CD to become regular contributor to Index.

JS should not consider repaying CD; the money was a gift, not a loan.

JS’s information on expression is the best he has received.

He appreciates the two specimens [skins of Mergenetta and Aix sponsa], especially the Mergenetta, which as far as sifting is concerned, is a capital link between the shoveller and the common duck. Arrangements for their return.

Henry Holland is taking an active part in helping JDH in the Ayrton affair.

Asks JC-B to observe whether platysma muscle contracts during rigor or shivering fit.

Is just recommencing his essay on expression.

Is sending some proofs for correction by WED [6th ed. of Origin].

Apologises for not working very quickly on proofs. Comments on Huxley’s theological critique of Mivart.

Wishes to translate Expression into Dutch.

Learned of CD’s interest in new facts bearing on origins of specific forms and sends proof sheets of his Monograph on tubularian hydroids [1871–2] stating his views on the descent of existing hydroids from ancient graptolites.

Thanks WED for a correction [to proofs of Origin, 6th ed.].

Will write to de Chaumont to ask whether anyone at Netley is able to observe shivering fits. Has not got H. Spencer essays.

Sends CD additions to his bibliographical list [missing].

Reports observations indicating that chimpanzees show compassion.