Thanks CD for permission to translate Variation into Russian. The translation will be guided by his brother Alexander, a follower of Darwin,

whose articles on the affinity of ascidians and vertebrates he forwards.

Answers VOK’s questions regarding the size of forthcoming Variation and gives his consent to a translation.

But if Origin has not yet been translated into Russian, CD thinks it would be a better book to undertake.

On whether to make woodcuts for Variation in Russia or use Murray’s stereotypes. He has similar advance publication agreements with Carl Vogt, E. A. Rossmässler and Theodor Billroth.

The Russian version of Origin is translated from Bronn’s German edition.

Agrees to use Murray’s stereotypes.

Offers to send rug made from a black Russian bear he shot.

CD has sent some revised proof-sheets and ordered the stereotypes [for Russian translation of Variation]. First volume is dull, but he hopes second is more interesting.

The proofs CD sent seem to have been lost in the post. Asks him to send another set by ordinary letter post.

Lost proofs have arrived.

Proposes to append the woodcuts of dog and cat varieties from Brehm [Illustrirtes Thierleben (1864–7)], which he has also translated, to the Russian edition of Variation.

Sends proof-sheets [of Variation]. Will not charge VOK for right of translation.

CD is sorry proof-sheets were lost; hopes clean sheets will have arrived.

Repeats details of his previous letter [5537] as he was unsure whether CD received it.

Sends a sheet of proofs. Will hold four others until he hears from VOK, because of expensive postage. Thinks illustrating Russian translation [of Variation] with woodcuts from A. E. Brehm’s work [Illustrirtes Thierleben, 4 vols. (1864–7)] is an excellent idea.

Thanks VOK for the present of A. E. Brehm’s Illustrirtes Thierleben [1864–7].

The woodcuts will do admirably [for Variation].