The review of EBT’s book ["Primitive Man: Tylor and Lubbock"] in the Quarterly Review [137: 40–77] last year contained a false and malicious attack on CD’s son George. CD knows it was written by St George Mivart. CD wishes to take every opportunity to say how false a man he considers him to be.

Seems to be in error about the nests of the two flycatchers.

On the petition by scientists regarding vivisection and plans for presenting it in Parliament.

Sir John Lubbock’s advice on draft of petition on vivisection. Agrees with Lubbock’s opinion that a bill would be more effective – but the more the subject is stirred up, the better.

Arrangements to meet a Duke [unidentified] at High Elms [Lubbock residence].

Explains that the plant is not consuming the flies, but that they die becasue they get stuck in the flowers when fertilising them.

Has signed John Wesley Judd’s certificate.

Hopes his wife, Thereza Mary Story-Maskelyne, will not forget about the meeting at the Linnean Society on 3 February; feels E. R. Lankester’s case is very cruel.

Rejoices that SS has accepted his son [William]. Judging from his own experience "life would be a most dreary blank without a dear wife to love with all one’s soul".

Sends MS [of chs. 3 and 4, "Comparison of the mental powers of man and the lower animals", Descent] to HED for her criticism. CD fears parts are too much like a sermon; "who wd ever have thought I shd turn parson?"

An affectionate letter to HL on her honeymoon. Urges her to keep her mother as an example.

Sends a copy of Orchids for his wife, T. M. Story-Maskelyne, and a few other items she may wish to have.

Climbing Plants may be purchased at Williams and Norgate; he has no clean copies.

Sends MS of section on voice as a means of expression [Expression, pp. 86–93]. CD is dissatisfied with it – wishes he could avoid the subject.

Will call on addressee when he is next in London.

Asks that enclosed letter be posted for him.