Is inclined to publish his "notice" after EK’s text in Erasmus Darwin. May condense and alter it, so EK should not translate yet. As soon as Dallas finishes translating EK’s text, CD will set to work. Thinks EK’s article more interesting than what he has written.
CD regrets that he feels large parts of Krause’s essay [on Erasmus Darwin] must be omitted. Gives his criticisms and his plan for condensed publication of his own article, with only parts of EK’s. If EK is unwilling to change, CD will publish his article privately. It is manifest that EK can publish his essay in its extended form in Germany if he wishes to do so.
CD is relieved by EK’s response to his criticisms. Will attend to all his instructions and will not print his preface until EK has seen it.
Urges EK to do as he thinks best about German edition of Erasmus Darwin. CD sends original of EK’s essay and translation of parts he has not used.
Agrees to EK’s proposals [for publishing Erasmus Darwin]. Will send sheets to Paris, but is not sure there will be a French translation.
CD thanks Krause for the errata.
CD is sorry to hear that Krause’s part will not appear in the French edition, and cannot believe that C.-F. Reinwald would be influenced by antagonism to the Germans. Reinwald always gives CD a small percentage on sales, and CD had intended to pass it on to EK.
Encloses a letter from CD to C.-F. Reinwald for EK to read, and if he approves, to send on.
CD complains of unfair treatment by EK’s publisher [of Erasmus Darwin, Karl Alberts], who has written that he now does not want the copies of the photographs CD has ordered for him. Is sure that EK will agree that the costs should be deducted from any profits from the sales.
Only a few copies of the photographs [for German edition of Erasmus Darwin] had been printed, so loss will not be great. CD was rather angry when he wrote [12291] "but it is all over now".
Answers EK’s questions. Sorry to report Erasmus Darwin sold only 600 copies at advance sale.