Praises CL’s work on human species.

A critical review of Origin in Saturday Review [24 Dec 1859].

A letter from J. G. Jeffreys criticises CD’s geological statements.

A note from William Whewell concerning Origin.

Has read Origin and considers it one of the most valuable contributions to present-day natural history. Believes, however, that there are difficulties in the extensive generalisation that all taxonomic groups are related by descent. Does not understand how Genesis is to be read unless at least the human species was created independently of other animals. Cannot bring himself to the idea that man’s reasoning and moral sense could have been obtained from "irrational progenitors": the "Divine Image" is the unsurmountable distinction between man and brutes. [See 2644.]

Remembers reading Smith’s memoir in Geological Transactions on the anomalous nature of Ventriuculidae. Asks for a copy.

Thanks for the additional subscription to the Rifle Corps. Regrets that he could not attend due to indisposition.

Has just received his note and written to the Royal Institution so that he may get an answer without delay. Sends his best wishes to the family.

Asks about other portraits of William Herschel like one RW owns, which National Portrait Gallery wants to buy. Will send miniature of WH's portrait to JH.