Would like to borrow WBT’s collection of fowls’ skulls.

Asks for WBT’s opinion of G. Ferguson, the author of a poultry book [Ferguson’s illustrated book of domestic poultry].

Comments on JL’s Seasons with sea-horses [1861]. Thinks JL bold to defend his bear–whale illustration.

Praise for DO’s paper on Hamamelidaceae ["On Sycopis", Trans. Linn. Soc. Lond. 23 (1862): 83–9, read 15 Mar 1860]. Everything points to its being a "bankrupt" family.

Hydropathy at Malvern may take him from Drosera. Requests Dionaea and Cypripedium.

Believes AG’s pamphlet will do natural selection "right good service".

CD expresses his gratification that a geologist of AG’s standing and influence subscribes to the idea of the mutability of species.

A bee’s sting always remains behind.

Thanks for skulls

and information about Ferguson.

Is working on rabbits’ skeletons.

Agrees with GR’s remarks on Asa Gray’s pamphlet.

New edition of Origin to appear immediately.

Fact of clubbed fingernails in cyanosis quite new to CD. Asks for information.

Will be pleased to review Asa Gray’s pamphlet [see 3068].

Is not surprised that blind cave insects are sometimes found in other dark places.

Making slow progress with Variation.

Thanks AM for his note. [Asa Gray’s] pamphlet was meant for AM if he thinks it worth accepting.

Asks for a rabbit specimen;

inquires about a hybrid hare–rabbit.

JL’s approval of CD’s work is gratifying. Most palaeontologists despise it. Delighted that JL has some interesting facts "in support of … selection". Is sure his views will be partially accepted. Has never doubted that "much in my Book will be proved erroneous".

Reports on the habits of the cutting ant of Texas, particularly its habit of planting shade trees to protect its mound from sun.

CD is obliged for the securing of [Ferguson’s illustrated book of domestic poultry]. Since he has already been given a copy, may he return this one?

Thanks for explanation of cyanosis and clubbed nails.

Hopes GR will work out point about mucus tubes.

Obliged for offer to observe orchids.

Not surprised that AGM demurs to acceptance of his views. Discusses effects of natural selection.

Invitation to Down for weekend with Huxley and W. B. Carpenter.

Promises to send copy of Origin [3d ed.].

Is pleased that PLS has "become ""heretical"" on species".

Has received Chauncey Wright’s article.

Reports on favourable response to AG’s pamphlet.