From C. S. Bate   1 March 1869

My dear Sir

I have by a friend been asked if there be any known case of Hybridism between the Fox & the Dog: I said yes but only could recall a far back recollection of having been informed that a specimen that I saw was the case & on turning to your [recent] work I find that you state vol 1 p 31 that Female dogs will take the male Fox, & in page 151 vol II you state that there is no case on record of a fox breeding in confinement—¹

The Question which has caused some litle discussion here is Whether there be any undoubtful case of a young animal the result of a cross between a fox and a dog: It is here among Hunters generally denied— Am I asking too great a favor, in requesting you to answer this question for me—

an acquaintance of mine here has a white cat with blue Eyes   I believe that it is not deaf— would particulars be of service to you²

I am dear Sir | Yours very faithfully | C. Spence Bate

March 1/69 | Plymouth