All but last two chapters of Origin proofs corrected.

Praise for JDH’s introductory essay [to Flora Tasmaniae].

Very ill and sick of work.

CL’s research on flint tools.

Promises to send proof-sheets of Origin. Discusses his view of species.

Ill health of himself and his family.

Delighted with JM’s suggestions. Asks JM to send sheets to Lyell.

On title of Origin, suggests omitting word "Varieties" altogether if JM does not object. Last proofs corrected, but revises still to do.

Inquires about the chances of meeting her when he goes to Ilkley for a cure.

Corrected last proof of Origin yesterday. Still has revises and index to do.

Will read more JDH proofs of Flora Tasmaniae.

Reports the results of some poultry crossing experiments; comments on transmission of different features.

"My unlucky Book [Origin] will be published 1st week in November."

Thanks CL for his favourable remarks to the Geological Section of the BAAS concerning the forthcoming publication of the Origin. Hopes CL will accept his view of species.

Comments on CL’s paper ["On the occurrence of works of human art in post-Pliocene deposits", Rep. BAAS 29 (1859): 93–5].

His book [Origin] is nearly done. Is not so silly as to expect to convert WDF. Lyell is wavering; Hooker has come round.

Family news.

Asks WDF to find out if a cross between differently coloured horses produces a dun.

Discusses text of Origin.

Compares Eocene and modern climates.

Mentions Hooker’s view of his geographical [distribution] chapters.

Asks CL’s opinion of his statements on distribution during "glacial and preceding warmer periods".

Mentions chapters on geological record and embryology.

Encloses draft in payment for tutoring of sons Francis and Leonard, with thanks for all GVR’s assistance.

Will send his servant for Arum plant.

Is sending off last proof-sheets of Origin.

Asks CL’s opinion of final chapter. Mentions difficulties of his argument.

Is too unwell to start for Ilkley.

Murray’s printing of 1250 copies seems too large to CD.