CD arranges for copies of some blocks [for use in Descent] from Brehm’s [Illustrirtes Thierleben (1864–7)].

Expresses gratitude for the distinguished honour conferred upon him by the University of Bonn.

Thinks GHL’s articles are quite excellent; hopes they will be republished.

Discusses adaptation. Doubts whether similar conditions without selection can produce similar organs independent of blood relationship: "resemblances due to descent and adaptation can commonly be distinguished".

Discusses luminous insects, electrical organs of fish, thorns and spines.

Acknowledges GH’s letter and the lecture on "Faith and science".

Cannot form a judgment on his chemical theory, but if GH establishes his case it will be a magnificent discovery.

"Faith and science" contained many ideas new to CD. Hooker, too, has read it with interest.

CD not a good enough botanist to form a judgment of specimen. Does not understand whether CAJ supposes the variety to be a result of hybridism or of the present very hot summer, which CD cannot doubt will have an effect on some British plants in their struggle for life.

AG’s coming visit to England.

Hooker’s Presidency of BAAS.

A month at the Isle of Wight has done almost nothing for CD.

Regrets having missed JVC’s visit. CD’s health is poor. He hopes JVC will come to Down after BAAS meeting.

Has heard second part [of Variation] is out in German. Thanks JVC for his great care in making translation accurate.

Enjoyed JDH’s visit.

Mrs Cameron’s photograph of JDH is grand.

Has heard J. V. Carus will be at Norwich. Suggests JDH mention that Origin was translated by two distinguished naturalists, H. G. Bronn and Carus.

FM’s additions for English edition [1869] of Für Darwin.

Dimorphic plants.

Hopes to find the article by Terenzio Mamiani della Rovere (Mamiani della Rovere 1868) on his return home.

Thanks LA for information on sexual differences in the coloration of Amazonian fish. CD was anxious to know how the sexes differed because they are unusual in that the male has the largest share in looking after ova and young.

No summary available.

Asks JDH to obtain from Sven Nilsson information on whether, in reindeer species in which both sexes are horned, the horns are first developed earlier or later than in species in which males alone have horns.

The problem of dimorphic plants and their fertility.

Pleased at success of JDH’s address. Has read several press reports.

Spectator pitches into JDH about theology ["Dr Hooker on the evidences", 22 Aug 1868, pp. 986–7].

Feels JDH has "immensely advanced the belief in evolution of species".

Thanks correspondent for information. CD does not care much for more cases of striped asses,

but is pleased at the interesting case of the affectionate jackal that licks like a domestic dog.

Thanks TCE for copy of his book [Osteologia avium (1867)].

Recalls visits to Eyton.

Would like to see reviews of book [Variation].

Health has lately been indifferent.

Cannot at present pledge to give [EK?] translation rights to next book.

Hopes JJM can visit tomorrow and stay the night.

Would like to ask Carl Vogt if he is still in London.