From Thomas Rivers   31 January 1868

My Dear Sir/

I thank you very, very much for the honour you have done me in sending me a copy of y^r. new book “Animals & Plants Under Domestication”¹   the subject to me is most fascinating & I shall go through the volumes with that calm pleasure which the recollection of the observations made in early life gives to old age for although in full vigour of mind & body I cannot for a moment forget that I have passed my 70^th. birth day   I also thank you for honouring my name by its frequent mention²

I am My Dear Sir | y^rs. very truly | Th^os. Rivers