To Josiah Wedgwood II   [5 October 1836]

My dear Uncle

The Beagle arrived at Falmouth on Sunday evening, & I reached home late last night. My head is quite confused with so much delight, but I cannot allow my sisters to tell you first, how happy I am to see all my dear friends again. I am obliged to return in three or four days to London, where the Beagle will be paid off, & then I shall pay Shrewsbury a longer visit. I am most anxious once again to see Maer, & all its inhabitants, so that in the course of two or three weeks, I hope in person to thank you, as being my first Lord of the Admiralty. I am so very happy I hardly know what I am writing.

Believe me, Your most affectionate nephew | Chas. Darwin

Remember me most kindly to Aunt Bessy & all at dear Maer.—