JBI on CD’s integrity and the separateness of science and religion.

Has observed, perhaps erroneously, that certain plants were excited to movement by a prolonged high note on the bassoon. Would now like to try a siren and asks JT to bring one from the Royal Institution.

Will provide the siren.

Asks whether he may use CD’s letters in his work [Die natürlichen Existenzbedingungen der Thiere (1880)] in order to show that Moritz Wagner has misrepresented CD’s views.

Discusses the influence of isolation and external conditions on animals, and the relative importance of the direct effect of external conditions and of selection in bringing about change.

Gives CGS permission to use his letters in any way he thinks fit.

Discusses the direct effect of external conditions as an agent of change in organisms; has encountered many cases since the publication of Origin.

Informs CD of his intention to bequeath his property to him.

Is deeply gratified by AR’s proposed generosity.

Gives CD details of the property he proposes to bequeath to him.

Is making progress with the Weismann translation.

Wonders whether Francis Darwin would give a botanical lecture at a Bayswater school.

Informs EAD of Anthony Rich’s proposal to bequeath his property to CD.

Writes of Anthony Rich’s bequest.

Thanks AR for the details of his bequest and invites him to Down.

Has examined this year’s crop, which looks good; will prepare a report.

Sends CD a proof of an illustration reduced on to the block by photography. The method is expensive but scientifically accurate.

Very glad to hear Anthony Rich is leaving CD money "encouraging science in such a very practical manner".

Surprised and delighted by Mr Rich’s bequest as it will greatly increase his income. Intends to leave money to the Royal Society to contribute to science. Houses in London are a good investment even in times that are nervous for bankers.

Approves of the proof. However, his book [Movement in plants] will have a large number of diagrams so he feels only the complicated diagrams and drawings should be copied by photography.

Asks CD if he would screw himself up to inviting A. Newton to Down.

Thanks for JDH’s description of CD’s work in Nature.

Anthony Rich to bequeath his property (over £1100 a year) to CD.

Congratulates CD on the Anthony Rich bequest.

Sad but relieved to retire as President of the Royal Society.

Describes battle with Treasury over use of an empty house at Kew.