Reptile genera in JH's [Physical Geography ] are consistent with those of [Edward] Forbes cited in Johnston's Physical Atlas [1854], but new genera have been discovered. Questions JH's claim that Elgin sandstone is Devonian. Notes Richard Owen's estimates on pterodactyl size, and distinct tail feathers [illustration] on recent specimen from Bavaria. Corrects JH's names for beaver genera.

Interested in Barkly’s letter about Mauritius. Doubts non-volcanic origin. Urges collection of all forms of terrestrial life to determine whether they are of a former continent or "waifs and strays". He leans to latter view, as snakes and reptiles are different.

Huxley’s address wonderfully "brilliant", but it is a mistake to separate evolutionists from uniformitarians.

Bentham has come out "splendidly" on descent of species.