From G. E. Dobson   12 April 1878

Dear D^r. Darwin

By same post I send you two specimens of monstrous fuchsia flowers in which the connective of the anthers of some of the stamens appears to have assumed a petaloid structure and appearance. They were the first flowers that appeared upon a fuchsia tree in my greenhouse, subsequent flowers have developed all their organs symmetrically. Perhaps you have seen this monstrosity before; however I send them on the chance that they may prove interesting to you in connection with your studies on the morpology of the flower.

I would feel greatly obliged if you would kindly spare me a little of your valuable time to let me know whether, during your visit to the Galapagos Islands you observed any Bats there. I am writing the introduction to my Natural History of the Order Chiroptera (which will be published about the end of this month in the form of a Brit. Mus. Catalogue)¹ and in treating of the Geographical Distribution of the Species I find it impossible to obtain any information as to the presence or absence of Bats in the Galapagos Group, and in this difficulty I take the liberty of asking your kind assistance.

I remain, | dear D^r. Darwin, | very faithfully yours | G E Dobson