"Like you I have often wondered at the different food of the old and young, as with graminivorous birds feeding their young with insects."

Recommends forthcoming book by John Lubbock [Monograph of the Collembola and Thysanura (1873)].

Seeks HH’s support for Hooker in JDH’s difficulties with A. S. Ayrton and the Ministry of Works [see Nature 6 (1872): 211–16].

Has written to Henry Holland in strongest terms. Will be surprised and disappointed if he does not accede to JDH’s request.

CD agitated by JDH’s letter. Forgot to say that he heard Henry Holland was going to Turin. Beseeches JDH not to resign. No one could possibly replace him.

Thanks HS for the preface to the 3d edition [of Die Thierzucht (1872)].

Has purchased H. von Nathusius’ work [? Vorträge über Viehzucht und Rassenkenntniss, Th. 1 (1872)]; feels he has ignored all that CD has attempted to make out with respect to domesticated animals.

Very glad to see Prion. [See 8029.]

CD offers OS upper and lower beaks of various ducks and geese if they are of interest to him.

Thanks for information about male Seychelles islanders.

Glad CW has written on phyllotaxy [Mem. Am. Acad. Arts & Sci. n.s. 9 (1867–73): 379–415].

Sure that CW’s pamphlet [Darwinism (1871)] will do cause good service.

Grateful for kindness to sons in America.

Has completed corrections for Origin [6th ed.], but has received no proofs. Hopes it will be published without delay.

Has been reflecting on Murray’s suggestion to stereotype the Origin. Sees advantage in that it will make him stop additions and changes in style. Inquires whether each separate sheet is stereotyped and can be altered.

Asks whether any copies of C. Wright’s pamphlet have been sold.

Writes about proof-correcting by WED [of Origin, 6th ed.].

Goes to Leith Hill on Friday.