Thanks CD for his orchid paper ["Fertilization of orchids", Collected papers 2: 138–56]. Comments briefly on orchids.

Discusses moths in which the wing underside is the most brightly coloured, and relates his observations on sexual selection by a moth, Syntomis.

Has corresponded with Macmillan about Nature.

Will get the Kerner book.

Mere guesses must determine which form to fix on as the type.

Raises questions about the genealogical tree.

Serves Mlle Royer right.

Lyell declines Royal Society Presidency; now look to W. R. Grove. Long postscript on JDH’s views about knighthood.

Appleton & Co. wish to be supplied with set of stereotype plates of CD’s new book [Descent] for American market; will pay for cost of plates, and 10% of sales to CD.

Also desire plates for new edition of the Origin.

Observations on fertilisation of Lapageria rosea by E. G. Henderson, florist of St John’s Wood.

Has heard that CD thinks GB is wrong on some points in his [Presidential] Address [to Linnean Society, see 6793]. Asks CD to point out where he is wrong.

Wants to arrange a joint photograph of CD and Wallace for a publication on their lives and works.

Asks CD to have stereotype plates made of new edition of Origin [5th English], if type still standing, though Appleton will reset type if necessary. Warns there is smaller audience in the U. S. for "good scientific books".

Appleton would also like plates made of new book [Descent] when possible.

Gives account of inherited blindness in a family,

and observations contravening CD’s view in Variation that sheep and other domestic animals never run wild.

Comments on CD’s observations on his address; clarifies his view of the importance of isolation, the effect of climate, the plants of S. Africa and Australia.

Agrees that it is wise to delay [publishing?] on Passiflora.

Puts queries he wants CD to send [to Fritz Müller] on bees visiting flowers in winter.

Reports a case of a smooth-leaved holly tree with one branch of prickly leaves; is willing to supply more details.