Gives the definition of ‘distal’ and explains what ‘thrips’ are. Suggests that LR uses his descretion in his translation of Orchids about certain descriptive phrases such as ‘saddle-formed’, but suggests he use them each at least once.

Declines offer to look over LR’s translation.

Asks whether the wild boar in India is polygamous.

Suggests Englishmen who might provide sponge specimens.

Sexual differences in Labidocera darwinii, in Entomostraca, and Myriapoda.

Encloses letter from W. B. Dawkins concerning "our old savage progenitors with their ground-down teeth".

Replies to JDH on Hallett; doubts that already improved varieties do not vary in other respects.

The North British Review article [see 6841] is worth reading "scientifically"; it made CD feel small.

Awaits JDH’s decision on affinities of Drosophyllum and Drosera.

Is curious to see proportion of males to females in recent census in India.

Offers TSC specimens of parasitic worms collected by CD in S. America.

Thanks for two copies of Teoria Darwiniana, one of which has been sent to the Royal Society.

THF’s view, if confirmed, pleases CD in that what appears a mere morphological character is found to be of use. Carl Nägeli has been attacking him on this head.

Faraday memorial is an exception.

George [Darwin] has convinced CD that North British Review article is by P. G. Tait [see 6841].

Surprised that leaves of Drosophyllum are always rolled backwards at their tips, but did not know it was unique character.

Thanks FD for his three publications.

CD is pleased that FD has discussed Pangenesis, although he does not favour the hypothesis. Will seek English publisher.

Inquires about the differences in plumage between chicks and adults of certain poultry breeds. Is anxious to know whether the chick’s plumage closely approaches the adult’s in those breeds in which the sexes resemble each other in plumage.

Will not trouble WCT for more specimens of Drosophyllum. Hooker says genus is closely allied to Drosera, though having such different habits.