Mentions receipt of EH’s History of creation [1876].

Describes his own work on cross- and self-fertilised flowers. Subject bears on the very principle of life.

Has read EH’s History of creation [trans. E. R. Lankester (1875)]. Was much struck with many "brilliant & original remarks". Is gratified by the way EH speaks of CD’s books.

Thanks EH for Arabische Korallen [1876].

EH’s Arabische Korallen is spirited, clear, and poetical. With respect to formation of islands, thinks EH lays too much stress on views of Ehrenberg. Admires drawings.

Book [Webb and Berthelot] has reached CD.

Sorry EH dissents from Pangenesis.

Glad EH is coming to England.

Will be visiting eldest son in Southampton in September [but visit apparently delayed until 7 Oct, see "Journal"].

Discusses death of his daughter-in-law

and possible visit by EH.

Thanks for EH’s Anthropogenie, 3d ed.

Sends Cross and self-fertilisation.

Thanks EH for album of photographs of German scientists.

Thanks EH for birthday greetings.

Mentions his work on movement of plants.

Thanks for kind letter.

Has not yet read EH’s article in Kosmos ["Einstämmiger und vielstämmiger Ursprung", 4 (1878–9): 360–76].

Rudolf Virchow affair lamentable. Virchow’s conduct inexplicable.

Admires EH’s Freie Wissenschaft und freie Lehre [1878].

Virchow’s conduct is shameful.

Suggests possible visit by EH.

Comments on EH’s research.

Invites EH to spend night at Down.

Confirms details of EH’s visit to Down.

Thanks EH for copy of book [Das System der Medusen (1879)].

Thanks for his very kind letter.

Asks EH to call on Zeiss and to help arrange for microscope for Francis Darwin.

EH’s scheme to visit Ceylon an excellent one. Has written to Huxley about getting money from Royal Society. If funds are unavailable, would like to subscribe £100.

Thanks EH and Ernst Abbe in connection with microscope for his son [Francis].