Forwards the preface to his book [see 12999] and comments on the effect of the Bible on science.

Brokers have purchased Leeds Corporation Stock.

Discusses the possible rebuilding of a pair of cottages on CD’s farm at Beesby, Lincolnshire.

Belated birthday greetings

and reminiscences of CD’s help to the Station, which continues to prosper. A recent innovation is the establishment of the Zoologische Jahresbericht edited by J. V. Carus.

Thanks for compliments on Evolutionist at large.

Reports on his improving health.

The laboratory has scarcely any experimental evidence on acidity of humus soil and earthworm excreta. Refers CD to some sources of information.

AR plans, when he dies, to leave sea-side house at Worthing to Huxley.

Pleased that Huxley is likely to accept gift of AR’s house.

Reports observations of worms for CD’s use.

Responds to MS of Earthworms. An objective but arbitrary test of intelligence in animals is the ability to learn from experience. Earthworms fall on the border of intelligence. They could justly be called intelligent if they could learn by experience to manipulate some unknown, exotic leaf. CD should make clear that intelligence does not imply self-consciousness.

Sends a number of facts for CD’s attention, including cases of water-beetles and newts in his aquarium having a foot caught by small bivalves. This might explain migration of bivalves.

Huxley has written to accept gift of Rich’s house.

Approves of Lord Derby’s politics.

Requests a subscription for Shrewsbury School.

Sends CD some samples of recent produce. Is "pretty well disgusted by the apathy and stupidity" he has encountered whilst trying to arouse interest and support for his work.

Sends boxes of Lake Geneva pebbles that CD requested.

Reports some observations on the growth of hair on his baby son’s ears.

Encloses statement of U. S. sales of CD’s works to 1 Feb 1881 and sends cheque for balance due to CD.

Reports the observations of Thomas Bridges on the Fuegian natives. Discusses especially the languages of the area.

Is glad CD finds his observations on hair growth on ears new and interesting.

Mentions instances in which young birds possess abilities lacking in the adult.

Asks whether blue eyes are peculiar to the human species.