There is a hyacinth growing upside down in Hankinson’s garden. Sends picture of it. Leslie Stephen knows of no worthwhile sources of information on Dr Erasmus Darwin.

Encloses drawings of Menyanthes and Pulmonaria anthers.

Langstaff has seen no trace of blushing on the body.

WED encloses a letter from H. M. Wilkinson about Utricularia and sundew.

H. M. Wilkinson has examined bladders of Utricularia; doubts that they absorb or digest insects.

H. M. Wilkinson describes dragonfly trapped by sundew [Drosera].

Sent a copy of Orchis book to Gentry. Mentions Morley’s article on Diderot. Asks for another copy of the new edition of Descent.

Asks CD whether it is worth sending money to prop up the Index.

Sends notes made in June 1867, on Rhamnus catharticus and R. lanceolatus. Encloses diagrams and measurements relating to pollen size in R. lanceolatus.

Thanks WED for his letter of 20 December 1875. Is surprised and delighted by the support from WED and CD for the Index.

Purchases cigarettes for CD.

Sends some cash to help WED with moving expenses.

Sends a pamphlet for FD and Ruck, who did not turn up for breakfast.

Has written of his idea [on the formation of the gravels near Southampton] to James Geikie, who thought it very feasible.

Reports the death of Francis’ wife, Amy.

Recommends that CD buy a plot of land.

Discusses the purchase of some land;

plans to visit Southampton.

Discusses legal arrangements [unspecified].

Writes about the purchase of a horse.

Discusses an experiment.

His dogs appear to have rabies.

Action of heavy rain on the leaves of Robinia.

Asks WED to make some observations on Acacia or Robinia.