[Letter written as a postscript to 11406.] CD has reread his letter of 7 Mar 1878 about the value of James Torbitt’s work on the potato disease and has nothing to withdraw. Emphasises Torbitt’s need for immediate financial help.

Sends some questions raised by THF’s notes on earthworms at Abinger; he plans to use them in his book.

Questions the exact location of rooms and trenches at Abinger excavation [for Earthworms].

Thanks THF for notes on Abinger excavation. Asks for more castings.

THF’s copybook has cleared up all points. The castings are invaluable. Encloses further queries [missing].

Is worried about brick particles in worm-castings. Asks THF for castings from a site where possible error would be avoided.

Has started experiment to see whether particles of stone become rounded in the gizzards of worms.

Asks THF to obtain sample of chalk immediately below vegetable mould at Abinger.

More on W. Graham’s book, The creed of science. Chance and design. Happiness.

E. A. Darwin’s death [26 Aug 1881].