From J. F. Simpson   18 March 1882

Dear Sir

I ought perhaps to apologise for my present intrusion especially remembering your remarks in your last kind communication.¹ The reference however I hope may be made, even if there ended finally. It is in relation to worms. In recently clearing out my little garden I reserved two (as I imagine) unique “castings”. The larger one however is falling to pieces notwithstdg having steeped it in gum solution. Its height I make still = 2 inches (some having—naturally crumbled away) with diam: = 2$\frac{1}{2}$ ins about. In your work, I find the extraordinary ones of Figs 2. 3 & 4 to measure respectively in heights 2$\frac{5}{8}$ths, 3$\frac{1}{2}$, & 2 inches.² The one I have by me therefore seems very large. Excuse my naming this little fact to you & with respectful Compts

Believe me yours faithfully J. F. Simpson

^To D^r Darwin F.R.S.