Extract from Athenæum 11 May [1878], p. 606, of R. I. Lynch on germination of the provision tree.

Has taken OCM to the photographer’s, and is sending photographs to be signed.

Writes of Anthony Rich’s bequest.

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.

Sends figures on increase in value of North Western Railway stocks. Says consol stock considered much more secure for bankers. Does not think his own bank is in danger of a run. Is glad to see the Emperor of Prussia has confirmed CD’s appointment to Academy. Is snowing at Bassett.

G[eorge] has visited A[nthony] R[ich] at Worthing.

Circular about the distribution of the overplus of his income and advice on investment.

Thanks CD profusely for the circular which detailed his and Emma Darwin’s plans to increase their children’s income. Thinks a few hundred really makes the difference for feeling really rich, especially as he now knows how important it is for bankers to have available personal savings.

Discusses his work on Dr Erasmus Darwin’s life.

There is a hyacinth growing upside down in Hankinson’s garden. Sends picture of it. Leslie Stephen knows of no worthwhile sources of information on Dr Erasmus Darwin.

Sends CD petition from Olmstead and asks him to forward it around to get good signatures.

Returns Guthrie. Comments at length on Guthrie’s critique of Spencer.