Origin of Antarctic brash ice.

Further on case of Lycopodium: does JDH know any genera of plants whose species are variable in one continent but not in another? Discussion on variations between floras as regards species richness, and factors affecting geographical distribution. On species, CD expects "that I shall be able to show even to sound naturalists that there are two sides to the question of the immutability of species; – that facts can be viewed and grouped under the notion of allied species having descended from common stocks". Mentions books and papers for and against species mutability. CD believes past absurd ideas arose from no one’s having approached subject on side of variation under domestication.

Would like to see Clarke’s paper

and would welcome visit from JDH.

Mexican specimen of laminated obsidian.

Comments on Forbes’s publication comparing lava streams and glaciers. Mentions ice-action theories of a young German.

Considers the transmutation of corn is well worth investigation ‘even if it should prove to be only a history of error’.

Would like JDH to visit. Regrets he will not be fit to visit JDH.

On checks to increase of species and the observations which led him to regard species as mutable in form. Would welcome "at some future time" LJ’s criticism of the "sketch" of his conclusions.

Mentions his Plutonic view of earth history.

Cites Lyell’s opinions on loess.

CD doubts contemporaneousness of extinct great animals with ice period.

Cites applicability of Forbes’s theory of glacier structure to structure of volcanic obsidian.

CD is falling astern in the geological race for knowledge.

Instructions for JDH’s trip to Down.

Change in train times.

Asks WBC if he will examine a specimen of calcareous rock.

[Notes on conversations with J. D. Hooker.] Geographical distribution; diffusion and distribution of species. Island and mountain floras; means of migration (high-roads, icebergs).

Thanks for botanico-geographical remarks. CD greatly appreciates JDH’s valuable generalisations.

Tells of his father’s ill health.

Discusses mesmerism and Harriet Martineau’s recovery. If animals could be put into a stupor, he would be convinced. Suggests WDF have some mesmeriser attempt it with cats.

Questions on JDH’s sketch comparing floras of Australia, New Zealand, and western S. America; wishes to know botanical relations between other southern islands. Botanico-geographical discussions and comments on books sent by JDH.

Is obliged for the account of the structure of the Pampas specimen and its difference from specimens of the modern calcareous bed of Coquimbo in Chile. If he thinks that J. S. Bowerbank can make out the nature of the specimens, they should be shown to him.

Sends thanks for money.

Comments on treatment prescribed by his father.

Encloses notes by John Higgins with investment advice. Discusses advisability of investing in farmland in Lincolnshire. Cites advice of Sir John Lubbock concerning purchase of land.