Has read several of CD’s books; is curious about his remarks on "movements which are no longer useful but still inherited". Asks CD’s opinion on why people still swing arms with opposite leg in walking.

Thanks CD for photograph – sends one in return,

questions CD on his religious views.

On ocelli and relation to sexual selection;

instance of rejection of male by female butterfly.

Pleased CD enjoyed his book [Outdoor papers (1871)].

Rejoices at CD’s kindly feelings toward the coloured race.

The Index is in financial trouble due to F. E. Abbot’s unworldliness.

Agassiz is setting up a summer school for natural history off the Massachusetts coast. His pupils develop more liberal scientific opinions than Agassiz’s.

Encloses some notes on expression.

Fears [CD’s] albumen theory will not work because albumen is coagulated and filtered out in making extracts of belladonna, hyoscyamine, and colchicine [alkaloid poisons].

Has investigated whether it makes a difference if extracts [of alkaloid poisons] are made from leaves, seeds, or roots.