Elaborates on the theories propounded in his recently published work [Earthworms], describing the reproductive system of worms and the absorption of organic matter in the soil. [See 13483.]

Sends an agreement for his signature and forwarding to Patterson & Bloxham.

Hears that James Challis [Plumian Professor of Astronomy, Cambridge] is on the point of death. Believes he has a good chance to succeed him; sends a list of the electors.

Tremendously interested by GHD’s news [about the Plumian Professorship at Cambridge]. Suggests he get William Thomson to write to the electors.

Wishes to contribute to subscription to pay legal expenses of David Ferrier [in vivisection prosecution].

Comments on physiological papers.

AD asks CD’s advice on possible causes of a decline in the Belgian hop crop.

Cannot read signature on letter sent via JDH from Lima.

Thanks for Life, letters and journals of Sir Charles Lyell, Bart. (K. M. Lyell ed. 1881), but he has already ordered a copy. Can he send the ordered copy to her to give to another, or can he send it on her behalf?

Magnificent supply of Euphorbiae arrived safely.

Writes of Challis’ health

and of other matters of family interest.

Is planning a revised edition of his Cruise in Tierra del Fuego [1857], and finds his opinions on the natives the reverse of CD’s.

Hopes he may call some time.

Thanks CD for his offer of assistance to David Ferrier.

Discusses CD’s earthworm book.

Tonsils in man as rudimentary organs.

Reports extract of spurge [Euphorbia] killing earthworms.

Financial matters; executing EAD’s will; pleased to hear news about Prof. Challis.

Thanks for Earthworms.

Glad CD liked the Dischidia drawing. GK wishes he could see it in the wild to study its habits and those of the insects that visit it.

Asks for a testimonial for the Chair of Natural History at Edinburgh.

The statues on which the egg-cases were found were perfectly clean and had never been painted.

Reports on fossilised leaf-prints he has found on the island. Found no seeds or land shells at the site.

Must refuse WCM’s request to revise E. Ray Lankester's testimonial.

CD asks him to say that the beautiful specimens of Dischidia arrived safely.

Has read Earthworms; would like to know if his friend’s belief is true that worms, if not destroyed, eat the tender rootlets of grass.

Thinks William Thomson will support him [for Plumian Professorship at Cambridge].