Explains that law of inertia, and most of modern mechanics, is all wrong. Explains his concept of "elasticity" of bodies. Applies it to physiology.
The illness and death of his daughter have delayed his answers to CD’s queries. He has, however, worked on the circulation of the eye and has almost finished a paper on it, which he will send to CD. In general, the views of Charles Bell are confirmed.
As for CD’s second query, he doubts that the relationship exists, but will answer fully in next letter.
JC-B’s essays are the fullest CD has received. His observations on blushing closely agree with James Paget’s. Platysma and horror: Duchenne’s statement doubtful.
Thinks the German publisher would not object to publishing quotations from CD’s works, unless it was a whole chapter.
Fears the development of bird wings will prove a very difficult subject.
Variety in rabbits less than he hoped for; will try a new mode of transfusion.
CD should soon receive woodcuts.
R. A. v. Kölliker would much like to visit CD.
Has read and enjoyed the Kant that FPC sent.
Returns P. C. Despine [?Psychologie naturelle (1868)].
Expresses his "unbounded admiration" for Mr Ford’s woodcuts [for Descent]. Thanks AG for his kindness.
Declines offer of book on physics.
Thanks WHF for his very good lecture.
Pleased to have encouraged CD to look at Kant.
His observations on mimicry in butterflies
and self-sterility in plants.
He and Milne-Edwards are nominating CD for the Académie Française.
Sending book [Charles Darwin et ses précurseurs Français (1870)].
Despite their differences of opinion, expresses his respect and admiration.
Describes crying in an infant.
Thanks for a woodcut sent by ARW for Descent.
Congratulations on his removal from London,
and praise of his review of Francis Galton ["Hereditary genius", Nature 1 (1870): 501–3]. CD agrees with every word of it.
Better news about the rabbits.
JO found fossil shells in the Amazon Valley, which discredits Agassiz’s claim of a glacial origin.
Would like Huxley’s opinion of the fossil horse’s tooth from Quito.
"Your financial operations excite my envy beyond words." Reports on stock just received.
Copy of Duchenne [see 7089] has not arrived; CD is concerned that it may be lost.
The mark he had thought a variation is not, and he thinks his infusion still too small even when the blood is defibrinised.
