From Emil Holub   28 January 1882

Dear Sir.

Having returned from Munnich, where I delivered a lecture before the Anthropological Society, I found myself honoured by the receipt of Your most esteemed letter!¹ May I pray, to accept from me my utmost thanks for the kind and sincere wishes towards my new journey. As I intend to visit England before starting I would, if permitted, pay a visit to Down, to inquire if I cannot anything do for you during my new travel in South and Central Africa. Being requested by my german publisher, to write my book in a more “popular” style, I had to restrain with regard to scientific matters.² But at present I am publishing together with some savants a few scientific essays. I take the liberty to send you to day the one, which I finished a few weeks ago.³ May I pray to accept it from me? May I also pray to forgive me that I have taken up so long Your most valuable time?

With this most sincere request | and the expression of my utmost esteem | I remain | Your obedient servant | Emil Holub Esq

To Charles Darwin Esq | Down. | Beckenham Kent.

P.S. I have sent the book by to days mail