E. A. Parkes informs him there will be difficulty about the Army returns [on CD’s Query to Army surgeons, see Freeman, Works of Charles Darwin, p. 111] owing to official obstructions by Director General. [Enclosed letter from Parkes to GB says that the Director General does not think that Army surgeons could be asked to collect information systematically for CD, but perhaps some informal, voluntary arrangement could be made.]

Discusses and suggests treatments for CD’s stomach complaint. Recommends he consult William Brinton.

Has received CD’s Copley Medal for him. Conveys regrets of Royal Society at his absence.

On a proposed meeting of friends of the deceased Hugh Falconer to decide on a memorial to him. Invites CD’s support.

Has heard from Hooker that CD is very ill and asking for suggestion of a doctor to consult. Recommends A. B. Garrod as specialist in gouty complaints.

The Polyzoa CD saw emerging from cells of a particular growth appear to be parasites. The main growth is a species of Sertularia; the minute parasites take possession of vacated cells.