Discusses his position at Cambridge, which is apparently under threat.
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].
No summary available.
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.
Sends his review of St George Mivart’s book [Genesis of species] [North Am. Rev. 113 (1871): 64–103] in which CW defends natural selection.
At Wallace’s suggestion he offers CD his observations on the seed-gathering habits of ants. Suggests their role in seed dispersal.
At work on the last part of his book [Contributions to the flora of Mentone (1867–71)].
Has found that Ophrys insectifera can reproduce asexually.
Thanks JTM for information on ants.
Mentions letter "from a Texas gentleman" Gideon Lincecum describing ants that plant seeds [see 3082].
Notes that fly orchid is unattractive to insects. Asks JTM to attempt fertilisation experiment with this plant.
Observations on expression of her dog for CD.
JDH informs William Thiselton-Dyer that he has had a letter from Sir Henry Barkly [Governor of Cape Colony] urging the completion of FLORA CAPENSIS & suggesting that Peter MacOwan, an experienced Cape botanist, be sent to England for a year to accomplish this. JDH passes on MacOwan's feelings on the subject & asks for Thiselton-Dyer's opinion. He also asks if Thiselton-Dyer will be able to describe any families for a flora of India.
No summary available.
No summary available.
Gives examples of animal species in which adult males castrate or kill younger males.
Regrets he cannot get to Queen Anne Street, but intends to come to Down.