Is experimenting with effect of ammonium carbonate on chlorophyll and roots, but finds the results confusing.

Julius von Wiesner has published a book reinterpreting CD’s observations in Movement in plants [see 13422].

Describes earthworms moving to the surface to escape moles.

Thinks CD overestimates earthworms’ role in creating mould. Gives some observations on worms and questions about their breeding habits.

Thanks CD for offer of assistance in exploration of Eskdale beds. Describes finds of scorpions and unusual amphibians.

Forwards a letter from W. F. P. Pfeffer, who opposes some of Julius Wiesner’s notions on plant movements.

Thanks for two letters from Pfeffer. Will return translation of Pfeffer and send a letter from Elfring. Looking forward to working on "antiWiesner" experiments. Will return on 26th or 27th.

Has read Earthworms.

Wonders if CD has studied gnats; inquires about their apparently useless hovering over one spot for hours.

More observations of the radicles of germinating seeds of Euphorbia peplus for appearance of milk-tubes.

Comments on J. v. Wiesner’s and W. F. P. Pfeffer’s views and criticism of his experiments.

Would be grateful for some Euphorbia species for examination of the roots. "The subject is by no means worth all the labour I am bestowing on it, but I cannot bear to be beaten."

Elaborates on the theories propounded in his recently published work [Earthworms], describing the reproductive system of worms and the absorption of organic matter in the soil. [See 13483.]

Sends an agreement for his signature and forwarding to Patterson & Bloxham.

Hears that James Challis [Plumian Professor of Astronomy, Cambridge] is on the point of death. Believes he has a good chance to succeed him; sends a list of the electors.

Tremendously interested by GHD’s news [about the Plumian Professorship at Cambridge]. Suggests he get William Thomson to write to the electors.

Wishes to contribute to subscription to pay legal expenses of David Ferrier [in vivisection prosecution].

Comments on physiological papers.

AD asks CD’s advice on possible causes of a decline in the Belgian hop crop.

Cannot read signature on letter sent via JDH from Lima.

Thanks for Life, letters and journals of Sir Charles Lyell, Bart. (K. M. Lyell ed. 1881), but he has already ordered a copy. Can he send the ordered copy to her to give to another, or can he send it on her behalf?

Magnificent supply of Euphorbiae arrived safely.

Writes of Challis’ health

and of other matters of family interest.

Is planning a revised edition of his Cruise in Tierra del Fuego [1857], and finds his opinions on the natives the reverse of CD’s.

Hopes he may call some time.

Thanks CD for his offer of assistance to David Ferrier.

Discusses CD’s earthworm book.

Tonsils in man as rudimentary organs.