Thanks for Antarctic flora [Flora Antarctica (1844–7)].

Agrees geographical distribution will be "the key which will unlock the mystery of species".

Could JDH look over a rough sketch on species?

Thanks EH for his Final report on the geology of Massachusetts [1841]. Comments on EH’s discovery of fossil footprints.

Asks for a meeting in order to go over the shells [which GBS was to describe in the appendix on Tertiary fossil shells in South America].

Sends corrections and suggestions for an advertisement for Zoology and Geology of "Beagle".

Comments on JDH’s Flora Antarctica. CD is delighted with it.

"I can never cease marvelling at the similarity of the Antarctic floras: it is wonderful."

Questions JDH on points raised by the work: absence of alpine flora on southern islands; comparison of climate and floras of Tasmania and New Zealand.

Is busy with shell work and cannot make it to Kew. Invites JDH to Down. Intends asking Edward Forbes and Hugh Falconer.

Can JDH come to Down on 6 December? If this is convenient, CD will ask Forbes, Falconer, and perhaps Waterhouse.

Delighted that JDH will come to visit him.

Cannot find two specimens of S. American fossil shells.

Suggests location of lost shell specimens.

Discusses GBS’s completion of his descriptions of fossil shells for the appendix to South America.

CD’s enjoyment of JDH’s visit and "all our raging discussions".

Would like to compare insects from Kerguelen Islands with those from Tierra del Fuego.