Thanks JSH for specimens. Comments on the structure of a hornet comb and asks JSH to obtain some fresh combs for him and to make observations for him. He is greatly interested in "these wondrous architectural instincts".
Regrets SC’s increasing deafness, but advises that aurists are humbugs.
Tells of illnesses in family and his own poor health. "I never know 24 hours comfort."
At work on abstract.
Continues argument on effectiveness of dispersal. Has doubts about relationship of isolation to highness of Australian flora. Questions about survival of European plants introduced in Australia.
CD receives the Wollaston Medal of the Geological Society.
Acknowledges the honour that the Council [of the Geological Society] have conferred upon him [award of Wollaston Medal]. Will attend the anniversary meeting if his health permits, but cannot attend the dinner.
Darwin encloses letters from ARW, and expresses admiration for the spirit in which they were written. Darwin thanks Hooker and Lyell for their intervention in the joint reading of ARW and Darwin’s papers at the Linnean Society in 1858. Darwin makes enquiries about the geology of the Himalayas.
Wallace has written and is well satisfied with the joint presentation.
CD requests some facts to make case in his abstract for former glacial action in Himalayas.
No summary available.
Expresses pleasure and relief at ARW’s response to joint publication of their pieces about natural selection.
Plans for the "abstract" [Origin].
Birds’ nests as evidence of variation of instincts.
Their collection of bees’ combs.
Praises ARW’s article.
Lyell’s and Hooker’s views [of species issue].
CD not convinced that naturalisation of European plants abroad is strictly dependent on creation by agriculture of disturbed ground.
More than half through his chapter on geographical distribution.
Wants white breeds of poultry.
Poor health necessitates a trip to Moor Park, Farnham.
JL’s brother’s accident.
Thinks JL should tackle systematics of anomalous insects from studies of internal organs.
His doctor urges CD most strongly not to expose himself to the excitement and fatigue of receiving the [Wollaston] Medal. He will ask Lyell to receive it on his behalf.
CD sees JL’s cases of same organs varying greatly in allied forms as a serious difficulty in regard to his own ideas.
Undergoing hydropathic treatment for his old ailment.
The "Abstract" [Origin] is the cause. Only two chapters to do.
His satisfaction that he believes he has convinced Hooker and Huxley and staggered Lyell.
Discusses events at Moor Park and domestic matters.
Sends naturalists’ autographs.
Enjoyed fortnight at Moor Park.
Has given proxy according to James Paget’s request. Almost sure it is in favour of [J. A.?] Kingdon [for election to Athenaeum?].
Sends list of poultry breeds he would like.
Writes about their new billiard table.
Has finished geographical distribution chapter and asks JDH to read it.
Is it just to say embryological characters are of high importance in plant classification?
