Has gone over Huxley’s letter, thinks it a model. All must now await developments. If Mivart does not apologise, JDH will write to him.

Would like to know the results of CD’s Utricularia experiments.

A Brazilian love-bird, escaped from captivity, has been found in a robin’s nest, apparently starved to death along with three young robins.

Has not heard from Mivart. He is not so good a Christian as JDH and cannot forgive a man for malicious lying merely because he says he is sorry. Does not think Mivart will apologise. Still thinks the simple, most manly thing, is to write to Mivart directly and tell him what he thinks of him.

Asks JT to persuade Lady Lubbock to change physicians and put herself in the care of Andrew Clark. Thinks this alone will save her.

JT had not known Lady Lubbock was ill. Will try to persuade her [to change physicians]. Agrees Andrew Clark is best.

Hooker has survived his crisis [death of his wife].

St G. J. Mivart’s act is a natural outflow of his character.

States his very high opinion of [JC-B’s?] abilities as judged from his writings and many excellent letters, and his suitability for some post in histology and pathology.

Explains that his letter had to do with how he should act publicly to Mivart if he retracted. He would not forgive him. If he does not retract, it would no longer be possible to keep him Secretary of the Linnean Society.

Drosophyllum will be sent when weather permits.

CD thought he had already reported to DN on Utricularia. The large swellings in roots store water. The minute bladders are adapted to catch live animals and feed on decayed remains.

Will visit DN when in London this winter.