CD has had an offer to go on a voyage of discovery for two years. RWD objects strongly, but will let CD make his case and if JW agrees with CD, RWD will change his position. In a postscript RWD adds, "Charles has quite given up … the voyage."

States his views on each of RWD’s objections to the Beagle venture. JW’s overall position is favourable to CD’s acceptance of the offer.

RWD had made up his mind to give up his objection to the Beagle voyage if JW did not take the same view. If Charles continues to want to go after further inquiry, will give him every assistance.

Happily home, he sends thanks to his "first Lord of the Admiralty". Will visit Maer in two or three weeks.

Sends information about, and dates of treatment of peaty fields. Marl seems to have sunk to the natural stratum of hard white sand which lies below the peat.

Thanks for "Maer Hypothesis" ["Formation of mould" (1840), Collected papers 1: 49–53].

RWD’s happiness that Emma has accepted CD’s proposal of marriage.

JW’s satisfaction in bestowing Emma on CD.

[A note from Emma on cover thanks RWD for the way the family have received her.]