Returns proof of his note on brain for 2d ed. of Descent. Has added a reference to Abbé Lecomte’s "terrible pamphlet" [Le Darwinisme et l’origine de l’homme (1873)] "lest it be thought I meant our cher Owen".

Received CD’s note late and so could not comply, but promises to vote in future for anyone CD recommends for Athenaeum.

Will have new evidence on dog’s intelligence sent to CD.

Reports on his examination of the dried specimens of Pinguicula at Kew to answer CD’s query whether all species secrete.

Action of cobra poison.

Wants particularly to know whether seeds or leaves of other plants are ever found adhering to the leaves of Pinguicula. Observations would perhaps best be made in a month or two.

Identifies seeds adhering to leaves of Pinguicula [see Insectivorous plants, p. 369].

Is delighted to hear that Pinguicula and Drosera digest fibrin. Suggests diluting gluten in weak hydrochloric acid to remove starch. Enamel was nearly digested [by Drosera] overnight. Would like to try separating the digestive ferment of Pinguicula.

Thanks for letter. CD’s nephew got into the club. The book about the beaver is probably that by Mr Morgan. Does not intend to publish further on the intelligence of the dog.

Her memorial has passed and her civil list pension has been increased to £100 per annum for life.

Dr Johnson of Shrewsbury has R. W. Darwin letters.

Reports on results of experiments on effect of cobra poison on animal cilia and muscle.

Asks about insects and seeds on leaves of Pinguicula.

Sends her observations on Dionaea capturing insects. [See Insectivorous plants, pp. 311–12.]

In doubt about size of printing of the 2d edition of Descent. Profit on 2000 at 12s would be only £250.