Regrets he cannot take Francis Owen on Beagle as midshipman. RF thinks CD had better be on the books [for victuals], but CD should do as he likes. Refitting progress is slow.

Thanks CTW for his letter [125]. "I do not think I ever received a more kind letter than yours or one that gave me so much pleasure.— You ought to have in your mind, the prospect of leaving England for 3 or 4 years before you can understand how to enjoy such a letter from such a person as yourself—". Regarding the voyage, "all is finally settled, & I have sealed away about half a chance of life.— If one lived merely to see how long one could spin out life,—I should repent my choice.— As it is I do not.—"

Thanks CTW for four fungi which have arrived.

Has collected [Phalli] in Shropshire and compared them with Barmouth species. Is convinced they are different.

Asks JSH for introductions to R. T. Lowe and Andrew Smith.

Has been given another week’s respite by FitzRoy.

Valediction only.

Sends congratulations and good wishes; feels the Wedgwoods bear much responsibility, since he would not have accepted the Beagle appointment had he not been at Maer "that 1st. of September".

Sends him a purse, which she asks him to use in remembrance of her.

Much disappointed that CD will leave home before she returns.

She encloses a pin with "genuine hair" and is flattered that it will go around the world with CD.