Surprised at Mivart’s harsh review [Q. Rev. 131 (1871): 47–90], considering courteous tone of his book. Assures CD he has not been converted by Mivart.

On St G. J. Mivart’s Genesis of species and Chauncey Wright’s review of it [North Am. Rev. (July 1871)].

Lists [with prices] four birds that he has forwarded to CD.

Promises to answer questions about ducks next week when he has a specimen.

Recently met Capt. Arthur Mellersh.

Is enjoying Descent. Sends corroborating facts on heredity, concerning race of people from the Seychelles known for their tall stature, courage, and vigour.

The pamphlet [Chauncey Wright’s review of Mivart, see 7940] has been distributed to friends and to the press.

Sends CD a sketch of goat with maxillary appendages and notes the dimensions of the structures.

Thanks CD for autograph and photograph.

The Origin destroys philosophical foundations of religion.

Sees his ideas on conscious and non-conscious intelligence are already in Murphy [J. J. Murphy, Habit and intelligence (1869)].

Encloses an extract from S. W. Baker’s The Albert N’yanza [1866] on the behaviour of the giraffe [See Origin, 6th ed., p. 178], and some references to Baker’s Nile tributaries [1867].

Has seen an article by Chauncey Wright ["Darwinism", North Am. Rev. 113 (1871): 63–103] and has heard it has been enlarged and reprinted [1871]. As CD has been distributing copies StGM wonders whether he might have one.

Sends proof of article for Contemporary Review [18 (1871): 443–76].

Is grieved to hear that Mivart is author of Quarterly Review article. THH thought better of him than that.

Compares the Origin to Plato’s Republic: "it will remain fresh for two thousand years".

Thanks for CD’s praise of his book [Primitive culture (1871)], wonders if he should abridge part into a small popular volume.

Sends CD £100 as requested. Gives information on bonds purchased on CD’s behalf.