Is preparing a new edition of Origin [6th ed. (1872)] and asks GB for information on the gradations between the vibracula and avicularia of the Polyzoa and on what he bases his opinion concerning the homology of the avicularium with the zooid.

Wants to sell some shares held in trust by EAD and Josiah Wedgwood [III].

Agrees to have his name on the list of naturalists to whom annual report [on zoological station] should be sent.

His health has been very bad for last six weeks.

Discusses exchange of books.

CW’s pamphlet [Darwinism (1871)] nearly ready. Friends have been much struck by it but say several passages rather obscure.

Glad CW coming to England. Will be delighted to see him at Down.

Obliged for letter about appendages on faces of goats.

Is preparing new edition of Origin [6th] in which he will introduce new chapter to answer Mivart’s criticisms. Mivart is unfair: suppresses facts in CD’s later editions.

Sends article [by Chauncey Wright, see 7940] reviewing Genesis of species.

Mivart writes to CD full of respect, but reviles him in print.

Obliged for note and sketch [of goat appendages].

Sends a reprint of Chauncey Wright’s article ["Darwinism", North Am. Rev. 113 (1871): 63–103].

Sends proofs of Huxley’s article on Mivart, to be published in Contemporary Review ["Mr Darwin’s critics", 18 (1871): 443–76].