Suggests that mimicry of sainfoin by burnet plants is an adaptation against farmers’ weeding.

Is glad CD has found interest in "the old book" [Dr Erasmus Darwin’s commonplace book].

Discusses Erasmus Darwin and his belongings, which RD has inherited.

Owns a portrait of Erasmus Darwin by Joseph Wright of Derby.

Has found a pamphlet of 1780 about Charles Darwin [1758–78].

RD’s sister, Violetta, has found some early verses and a MS by Dr Erasmus Darwin.

Gives some examples of Dr Erasmus Darwin’s benevolence; will forward some books that may interest CD.

Research for Erasmus Darwin. CD has always thought there is one "golden rule" for biographers: "not to insert anything which … would interest only the members of the Family".

Thanks CD for sending some old family letters of RD’s father’s [Francis Sacheverel Darwin (1786–1859)].

Discusses material for Erasmus Darwin including an engraved portrait by Joseph Wright.

He has nothing at all to send in answer to CD’s questions respecting the book on Erasmus Darwin.

Sends her sketch of [Breadsall] Priory, as renovated by present owner.

Answers CD’s query about Robert Darwin of Lincoln’s Inn.

Sends an introduction for Leonard Darwin to their tenants at Elston Hall.

Fears he cannot give much information for CD’s book [Erasmus Darwin]. Recounts how his mother’s health was improved by Erasmus Darwin’s treatment. Remembers being attacked as a boy by an angry lady whose beautiful teeth were extracted by Dr Darwin "to cure some nervous spasms".

Thanks CD for offer of his portrait.

Suggests a solicitor who has Darwin papers and who may have information about Cleatham.

Describes her portrait of Erasmus Darwin.

Second edition of Edmond Barbier’s revised translation of Origin selling out; third one to be published.

A new edition of Variation, virtually retranslated by Barbier, is in press.

Second edition of Descent selling out.

CD’s botanical books are losing money.

Observations on unusual mating behaviour of canaries.

Relates more family history and anecdotes concerning Dr Erasmus Darwin.

Comments on the branchiate trichopteran specimen from Fritz Müller sent previously.

Forwards a letter [missing] from her cousin relating to Dr Erasmus Darwin.

Thanks him for his efforts. CD cared most about the letter to Thomas Okes [see Erasmus Darwin, pp. 14–15]. "Cannot think who the calumnious article cd have been about [in?] 1802."

Thanks CD for the engraving, which has arrived.

Has no letters or papers [of Erasmus Darwin].

Suggests CD cite some of Erasmus Darwin’s poems to answer the charge of atheism [see Erasmus Darwin, p. 44].

Recounts a story of a remarkable cure by Dr Darwin, showing his sagacity and daring.