Sends date of his mother’s death – 7 Apr 1859.

Was completely mystified by conjuring performance of [John Nevil] Maskelyne.

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".

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.