Directions to Down.

Comments on dubious story involving natural history of Formosa. Suggests that Robert Swinhoe could give an answer.

Will call tomorrow.

Argues that coloration of eggs is a protective adaptation.

Thanks GR, who made one of the most wonderful expeditions on record, for some notes which he will consider if he ever has to prepare a new edition [of Descent].

Mentions the difficulties in explaining the separation of sexes and Carl Nägeli’s view that the sexes of plants were primordially distinct.

Has been experimenting for five or six years to demonstrate that the benefits of crossing are the same as those derived from a slight change of conditions.

Michele Lessona will translate Descent into Italian [1871].

Sends his review from Nuova Antologia [17 (1871): 177–94].

In a letter to Archivio per l’Anthropologia he raises some doubts about sexual selection and proposes "Neogenesis" as a complement to natural selection in cases of rapid change.

As a professor of natural history, LD has spread CD’s doctrines in Hungary. Now wishes permission to translate Descent.

A geologist friend leaving for Nevada offers to investigate any questions CD may have for this region.

Nesting plumage of common chaffinch resembles adult winter plumage of female brambling.

Reports the passing of [Universities Tests] Bill and the consequent end to a bother.

Discusses his position at Cambridge, which is apparently under threat.

Thanks LHM for his introductions for CD’s sons and for his instructions about their route [for their U. S. visit].

Discussion of mimicry and sexual selection among butterflies, occasioned by reading Descent.

Replies to CD’s queries on movement of the eyes in meditation, and changes in the iris in rage and terror [see Expression, pp. 229, 304].

Has read of Descent in Polish newspapers. Writes against the Bible view, but believes in the Almighty.

Thanks FCD for information about eyes [for Expression].

Must interrupt work on the subject to prepare new edition of Origin [6th].

Comments on gift of a new work by FCD [possibly "Die Projection der Gesichtserscheinung nach der Richtungslinien", Arch. Opthalmol. 17 (1871) Abt. 2: 1–68].

Observations on orchids. Ophrys apifera; confirms CD’s observation on pollinia.  The nesting of ducks in trees is an example of change of instinct and habit.

Sends publication [unspecified].

Notes adaptive mechanism in epiphytes.

Confesses to intense hatred of the bee [orchid] for its anomalous perpetual self-fertilisation.

CD elected an honorary member of the Asiatic Society of Bengal.