Is sending plates for R. T. Lowe’s paper [Trans. Cambridge Philos. Soc. 4 (1833): 1–70].
Adds advice on working the surd.
Agrees with CD that Beagle voyage would have been wrong for Jenyns, but assures him he (CD) is the right man. Warns CD against his "foible" of taking offence at rudeness or ungentlemanlike behaviour.
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.
Congratulates CD on his "very very good degree". Asks about friends; wishes him well.
Is in London living in a garret, almost penniless, and has legal and marital difficulties. He hopes to sell some verse.
Will leave Cambridge shortly after division; plans to return for next term. With so many friends, Henslow among the foremost, it will be pleasant.
Accepted CD’s "generous remittance" rather than go to jail; has pawned his watch. Will stay one fortnight to see whether he can do anything; if he fails he will go home. If he succeeds he will ask his father to pay his debts and nothing else for a two-year period. Is proud of the attachment CD shows.
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.
In London HM was too harassed by his wife to write; has gone home and is much bothered by his father. Looks for a place as a private tutor. Remains CD’s devoted friend.
CD expects pleasant spring term; will botanise with Henslow.
He is dreaming of going to the Canary Islands for tropical scenery.
Asks CD to accept a Coddington microscope, which accompanies his anonymous note.
Compliments CD on talent and sincerity.
Sends congratulations and good wishes; feels the Wedgwoods bear much responsibility, since he would not have accepted the Beagle appointment had he not been at Maer "that 1st. of September".
Sends him a purse, which she asks him to use in remembrance of her.
Much disappointed that CD will leave home before she returns.
Their letters crossed; she now knows he will be gone for three years, not two; does not know what they will do without him at the Forest, but wishes him well.
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."
Describes the wedding of her sister Sarah and related festivities. She misses CD very much.
Wants CD to come without fail on Monday, and to bring her a small bottle of oil colour, a half-dozen small brushes, and a "juicy" book of some kind.