Goes on the assumption that each species has one origin, is immutable, and migrates.
Disagrees with Gaudichaud[-Beaupré] that volcanic island species are polymorphous.
Some mundane genera vary, others do not (Senecio vs Gnaphalium).
John Lindley’s doctrine of longevity of trees is amazing.
Edward Forbes’s health is better.
Orders John Pye Smith’s book [Relations between the Holy Scriptures and some parts of geological science (1839)].
Sent him a paper on differential equations about a month ago and wonders if it has gone astray as he has heard nothing from JH.
Truly grateful to hear such a good report of JH's health. Should continue the medicine. Hopes to avail himself of JH's kindness when he has leisure.
Asks AD for the return of a paper JH had sent him.
No summary available.
Should have returned the paper before, but has been very busy with the Annual Report and other matters. Paper seems worthy of publication.
Will come to visit Kew if Claude Gay speaks English. Otherwise would prefer to wait until spring.
No summary available.
Gives his opinion on the tropical character of fossil shells listed by CD. The shells of Navidad [Chile] are not particularly tropical.
Will visit JDH in spring.
Will JDH ask Gay what birds, reptiles, or mammifers inhabit Juan Fernández [Island]?
Has JDH seen William Herbert’s paper ["Local habitation and wants of plants", J. Hortic. Soc. Lond. 1 (1846): 44–9]?
Is obliged for his notice of the separation of Biela's comet; has sent extracts to H. C. Schumacher. Sends some observations made that evening. [Francesco] de Vico announces a new comet; so far he has been unable to trace it.
Regrets any inconvenience he has caused but is grateful for JH's act and offer to communicate his paper to the R.S.L.
Thinks JDH’s explanation of polymorphism on volcanic islands is probably correct.
Proposes experimental test to see whether alpine form of a plant is inherited like a true variety.
Cannot provide any specimens of photography or the spectrum good enough for an exhibition, as most have faded. A French chemist just announced as a discovery a fact long since known by JH.
No summary available.
Reports on progress of refractor [see GM's 1846-1-13], and deals with finances.
Wishes he had seen JH's paper before submitting his own; then he could have rectified his errors. Has been carrying out some electrical experiments. Sent abstract to Michael Faraday, who does not understand them. Would be pleased to send JH further scientific communications.
Thinks it a good idea to send a memo to the Colonial Office on the question of a Cape botanical garden. Has consulted W. H. Harvey on the question. What a curious plant is found on the coasts of Africa.
Circular Magnetic and meteorological observations.