Comments on SB’s book [The fair haven (1873)]. CD is struck by SB’s dramatic power – thinks he could write "a really good novel". Surprised at strength of case SB makes that Jesus did not die on the cross. SB’s identity will soon be universally known: Leslie Stephen knows he is the author.
JDH informs Lady Hyacinth Jardine [later Hooker] that Mr Smith has arranged for a pitcher plant to be sent to her, addressed to the Lockerbie station. JDH mentions the 'exceptionally splendid weather'. He has seen [Charles] Lyell at the Philosophical Club & found him changed: speech unintelligible & looking frail.
The impossibility of conceiving that the universe arose through chance is the chief argument for the existence of God, but CD has never been able to decide whether this is an argument of real value. Safest to believe that the subject is beyond man’s intellect, "but man can do his duty".
Having now read Expression, WM repeats his criticism of "antithesis". Explains his theory of up-and-down-tending lines.
JDH identifies a plant as Wigandia Caracasana, native to Venezuela, which is planted for foliage in the London parks but only flowers in a hot house. JDH would like to take a walk with Lady Hyacinth Jardine but is very busy with work. He has little time for reading novels but has started BURGO-MASTERS FAMILY & recommends it. He reports that Lady Jardine's Oaks are growing nicely & asks when she will come to see them. Frances [Hooker née Henslow] caught a cold at the [University] Boat race.
Comments on article ["Perception and instinct in lower animals", Nature 7 (1871): 377–8].
Explains his contention that "many of the most wonderful instincts have been acquired, independently of habit, through the preservation of useful variations of pre-existing instincts". Cites examples: sterile workers of several species of social insects have acquired different instincts; movements of tumbler pigeons. Speculates that "many instincts have originated from modification or variations in the brain".
"The following fact with respect to the habits of ants, which I believe to be quite new, has been sent to me by a distinguished geologist, Mr J. D. Hague [see 8788]; and it appears well worth publishing."
Anxious to have GHD come home because of his poor health. Recommends Huxley’s physician (Andrew Clark) – an advocate of milk diet.
No summary available.
Has sent JDH’s letter to Nature ["Perception in ants", Nature 7 (1873): 443–4].
Sons recall kindness received from JDH and others in America.
Thanks for present of
No summary available.
Debates the existence of God.
No summary available.
No summary available.
Contradicts passages in Descent and Variation.
Wants to discuss raising a testimonial fund for Huxley and whether Huxley would stand this.
Sends photograph of a diseased roebuck shot by Prince Frederick Charles of Prussia.
Is trying to persuade "our friend" [T. H. Huxley?] to accept a gift.
CD particularly wishes to see JT "On business not connected with himself" [the fund for Huxley’s holiday]. Asks whether CD may call that afternoon. GHD adds postscript saying CD very fatigued. He hopes JT can come to see CD instead, but he should not mention that GHD suggested it.