Encloses two questions he hopes MF can answer: the mechanism of transmission by nerves; and the mechanism by which contemplating part of our body, we become conscious of its existence

Encloses a testimonial for AG [in support of his application for a promotion at British Museum].

Does he agree with Carl Gegenbaur’s paper on the limbs of fish [Jenaische Z. Naturwiss. 5 (1870): 397–447]?

Asks what caused G. R. Gray’s sudden death.

Honoured by offer of medal from Chester Natural History Society, but if he is expected to attend in person to receive it he regrets he must decline. Asks TMH to decide for him.

CD is sorry for the trouble TMH has had. Fully approves of the rule [that the medal be awarded to a local worker?]. The knowledge that the Chester Natural History Society wished to honour him is the real gratification, which he will never forget.

Sends a preliminary reply to CD’s query [5890]. Ten males to one female among captured micro-Lepidoptera. Six females to four or five males in those he has bred. HTS is aware this is diametrically opposed to information from [Alexander] Wallace and Bates, but the true proportion of sexes can only be ascertained by breeding.

Replies to CD on proportion of sexes in butterflies, coloration of moths, and courtship. Encloses copies of letters on these subjects between HTS, Henry Doubleday, and John Hellins.

Protective coloration in butterflies.

[Alexander] Wallace’s suggestion that collecting larger larvae of females accounts for error in counting proportion of sexes.