Has read JD’s articles in the Gardeners’ Chronicle [(1872): 872, 904–5].

Questions him on the fertility of certain varieties of Pelargonium which are fertile with some varieties but infertile with others.

Encloses a letter to Nature [see 8448] correcting Dr Bree, who has accused ARW of "blundering". ARW should tear up CD’s letter if he does not like it or plans to reply himself.

Cannot accept honour of nomination as Lord Rector [of Aberdeen University].

If decapod does not pass through zoea stage, is this acceleration? If hypothetical adult retained zoea characters, would this be retardation? Believes obliteration of growth stages frequently due to natural selection. Most interesting points in AH’s letter deal with senile characters. CD attributes them to laws of growth not selection. Explains degraded characters as result of readaptation to simpler conditions. Believes no innate tendency to progressive development exists.

Hopes AH visits F. Hilgendorf’s famous deposit [at Steinheim]. A. Weismann [Einfluss der Isolierung (1872)] makes good use of Hilgendorf’s observations.

Asks her to probe worm-holes on grassy slopes with a knitting needle to ascertain whether they come out at right angles to the slope or to the horizon.

Thanks for observations on angles of worm-holes on slopes. William Darwin is observing at Stonehenge. She is worth her weight in gold.

Wants AR to make any observations she can on the occurrence of little ledges on the side of steep, turf-covered slopes. Feels they may result from the washing down of worm-castings.

Wishes to insert R. B. Litchfield’s remarks [into Expression] but will not give them as his own.

Cannot understand the estimate of the Heliotype Company [for plates for Expression]. Discusses the original agreement as he understood it.

Discusses printing of Expression.

Comments on discussions with C. Reinwald concerning French edition of Expression.

Discusses presentation copies of Expression.

Discusses distribution of presentation copies of Expression. Sends instructions for mailing his copies. Discusses negotiations with C. Reinwald concerning French edition. Suggests journals to receive review copies.

Sends a copy of Expression and his autograph.

Discusses production of plates [for Expression].

Comments on additional printing of Expression. Complains about poor quality of plates.

Sends a copy of Expression

and speaks fondly of his memories of Woodhouse and the Owen family.

Thanks SH for news of her family. Would like her to visit Down in the spring.

Wants to make a present to her on the move to a new house.