Comments in jocular vein on GHD’s "Darwin discoveries" about their ancestors.

Emma says CD needs a change and rest.

Francis wants a copy of a book on "Shakespeare’s merry tales" to present to a friend in Würzburg.

Inquires concerning a possibility of searching old deeds about the Darwin family history.

Has written to Col. J. L. Chester [genealogist] to ask whether he would like to see the deeds [for Darwin genealogy, see Emma Darwin 2: 237].

CD thinks nothing had better be done about the deeds at present.

Henrietta thinks Erasmus Darwin almost too dull to publish.

Sorry to hear Henrietta’s opinion of the [Erasmus Darwin] proofs. GHD did not think it dull. He makes some suggestions.

Asks GHD to send name and address of tailor from whom he got the [LL.D.] gown to W. B. Richmond.

Erasmus thinks CD should give a copy of Erasmus Darwin to Henry Parker.

Gives CD some information on wills.

Is leaving tonight for Genoa;

sends a French paper [not identified].

Discusses buying a horse [for CD].

Conveys some information on a quiet horse which CD may be able to purchase from a riding school.

Believes he has found a quiet cob suitable for CD. Encloses a letter for CD to sign and send to the owner if he approves the idea.

Instinctive responses in animals.

Returns and sends comments on Clarke Hawkshaw’s essay ‘The persistence of forms of life in the depths of the sea’.

Comments on points made in Hensleigh Wedgwood’s letter [7470] on moral sense in Descent.

Has arranged a trip to the U. S. with Cambridge friends; believes it would be much jollier if Frank could go too.

Mentions some photos relating to expression.

Discusses his position at Cambridge, which is apparently under threat.

Reports the passing of [Universities Tests] Bill and the consequent end to a bother.