Thanks RT for his letter and MS.

Is astonished by the different forms of orchids he describes.

Urges RT to describe and experiment with two or three of the more distinct genera.

"I believe, or am inclined to believe in one or very few primordial forms, from community of structure and early embryonic resemblances in each great class."

Further discusses RT’s observations on Cape [of Good Hope] orchids and asks whether it would be possible for him to send some specimens to Kew.

CD has drawn up a paper from RT’s orchid notes on the fertilisation of Disa grandiflora for the Linnean Society [J. Linn. Soc. Lond. (Bot.) 7 (1863): 144–7].

CD would welcome seeds of any Cape Oxalis for his investigation of dimorphism.

Discusses methods of pollination in orchids.

Thinks RT should investigate Physianthus to see if it requires insect aid for fertilisation as the Asclepiadaceae do.

CD’s doctor [J. M. Gully] has ordered him to do nothing for six months.

Thanks RT for orchid specimen.

Dares not look at Oxalis flowers.

Regrets RT cannot get seed, especially from his trimorphic flowers.

Asks for bulbs of two or three forms.