Interim report on the experiments with rabbits [to test Pangenesis].

Thanks CD for copy of Origin.

Encloses extensive, but incomplete, notes on expression among the insane, dealing specifically with blushing and the actions of the platysma and grief muscles.

CD much interested by ERL’s book [On comparative longevity (1870)]. Is pleased to find ERL refers to CD’s "despised child" Pangenesis, and is also pleased how thoroughly ERL appreciates Herbert Spencer, a philosopher perhaps equal to any that has lived.

Is currently at work on the development in birds of organs of flight according to CD’s principles; asks permission to quote CD in stating the theory.

Urges CD to republish his works in a collected edition, to make them more readily available to Germans.

Describes the unusual appearance of a horse whose mother had previously borne a foal by a quagga. The effect of one mating on the subsequent pregnancy of another mating is explained by JJW using Pangenesis.

Experiments are not going well, but the quantity of blood transfused was small.

Explains that law of inertia, and most of modern mechanics, is all wrong. Explains his concept of "elasticity" of bodies. Applies it to physiology.

The illness and death of his daughter have delayed his answers to CD’s queries. He has, however, worked on the circulation of the eye and has almost finished a paper on it, which he will send to CD. In general, the views of Charles Bell are confirmed.

As for CD’s second query, he doubts that the relationship exists, but will answer fully in next letter.

JC-B’s essays are the fullest CD has received. His observations on blushing closely agree with James Paget’s. Platysma and horror: Duchenne’s statement doubtful.

Variety in rabbits less than he hoped for; will try a new mode of transfusion.

CD should soon receive woodcuts.

R. A. v. Kölliker would much like to visit CD.

Pleased to have encouraged CD to look at Kant.

His observations on mimicry in butterflies

and self-sterility in plants.

He and Milne-Edwards are nominating CD for the Académie Française.

Sending book [Charles Darwin et ses précurseurs Français (1870)].

Despite their differences of opinion, expresses his respect and admiration.

Better news about the rabbits.

JO found fossil shells in the Amazon Valley, which discredits Agassiz’s claim of a glacial origin.

Would like Huxley’s opinion of the fossil horse’s tooth from Quito.

"Your financial operations excite my envy beyond words." Reports on stock just received.

Copy of Duchenne [see 7089] has not arrived; CD is concerned that it may be lost.

The mark he had thought a variation is not, and he thinks his infusion still too small even when the blood is defibrinised.

Writes of some observations on the Sandwich Islands.