CD will publish on Primula [Collected papers 2: 45–63]. Will DO ask W. H. Fitch to make woodcuts of "pin" and "non-pin" primroses [i.e., long-styled and short-styled forms]? Encloses a sketch.

CD regrets he has to turn down an invitation because of his ill health.

Admires FJW’s article ["The boundaries of science", Macmillan’s Mag. 4 (1861): 237–47]. Thinks she understands his book [Origin] perfectly.

On design in nature: the more CD thinks on the subject the less he can see proof of it.

Is obliged for information concerning differences in the bees of Britain. Relates case of the Jamaican bees which were introduced long ago and have remained the same in size and character except that the diameter of the cells is larger, the wax tougher, and the walls of the hive thicker.

Reports misprint in announcement of his book [Orchids].

Asks FB’s help in identifying an article in The Field about the fins of fishes growing again after being cut off, and inquiring whether he has heard of the re-growth of organs in the mammalia or birds.

Discusses exchange of photographs with Édouard Claparède, "for whom I feel the highest respect".

Is pleased to hear of Dr Heine’s interest in Origin. Questions whether Dr Heine’s law of inheritance can be demonstrated.

Thanks his correspondent for remembering to send him a woodcock’s leg and informing him that "from a ball of earth attached to the leg of a Red Partridge no less than 82 plants germinated". [See 5287.]

CD is relieved that JWS’s circumstances have improved. He is pleased to accept Supplement to English Botany. He will try to attend Geological Society meeting.

Thanks for papers.

Discusses case of the Asturian plants and HH’s view of their introduction through the agency of man. Although botanists question whether plants are thus introduced, those working closely on insular floras are admitting this view more and more.

He will send carrier to the Field office to collect pigeons.