JDH gives his opinion on Sir William Turner Thiselton-Dyer's [WTTD's] account of [Thomas Henry] Huxley, his only criticism is that there could have been greater emphasis put on Huxley being the greatest champion of Darwin's theory amongst evolutionists. JDH thinks it right that Huxley stopped writing when he did as it became clear he was 'used up'. JDH also writes that he is returning WTTD's letter to the German Embassy with his full approval. The weather has caused JDH's health to deteriorate & he is unable to come to RBG Kew this week, he apologies for any inconvenience to the 'Trust'.

Thanking him for information about acetylene gas supply, asks for address of "Dargue" system London offices; Well Fireplace Co at Newcastle; progress of digging of foundations and making garden (at "Old Orchard", Broadstone), rain likely to flood cellar excavations, plans for drainage; details of cement and brick supply; "Well" "Rational" and "Teal" fires; altered plans for study; William's increase in salary; definition of and immorality of gambling.