From Henry Holland   [1 or 8 February 1862]¹

My dear Sir,

Thank you cordially for your letter.² While thus kindly acquiescing in what I have written, I fancy I see that you are not quite satisfied with my mode of using the word path—³ This then I will change, & in some such fashion as follows

“This must be considered a new path of research in the great field of Life; & one which, steadily pursued by exact & patient observation, cannot fail of conducting to many important results. It is certain that some future revision & reform will be required, of all existing catalogues of species & genera.— How far this may carry us is yet doubtful,” &c

I write, as you will see, in great haste to secure the post, & put down the above lines as suggested to me while writing them. But something like these words I shall take instead of the other sentences of which I before sent you.

Ever yours affect^ly | H Holland