Only proof that internal organs and bones were intermediate would convince CD of the possibility of the astounding [deer] hybrid WDF has reported.

Has WDF positive knowledge that common ganders do not always turn white?

Has begun his larger books. New editions of Origin will appear.

What is right and wrong in it will soon be sifted.

Attacks [on Origin] are "hot and heavy". Adam Sedgwick and William Clark at Cambridge Philosophical Society opened a battery. J. S. Henslow defended in grand style.

Slow progress on bigger book.

Has WDF ever observed musk ducks laying eggs in high places? The case bears on retention of aboriginal habits.

Also wants data on period of gestation of dog breeds. [See Variation 1: 30.]

The hybrid case is most curious, if true. So many have tried to get hybrids from hare and rabbit.

Has done little regular work – correspondence on Origin has been gigantic.

Has amused himself working on power of Drosera to catch flies.

Writes of family photographs and health.

Is at work on an enlarged [3d] edition of Origin.