To Albert Günther   27 September [1869]¹

My dear D^r. Günther

Your answers to all my many queries are so full, clear & explicit that I have not a word more to ask, & they will be of the greatest use to me.—²

I would not on any account ask you to write to America about which sex of the Chromids sits on the nest; but if you write on any other subject, I sh^d be very much obliged if you would ask.—³

I am delighted to hear that M^r Ford will undertake the drawings. I had forgotten about differences of size in sexes; no doubt the female must be in due proportion smaller.—⁴

Any species of Salmon, which presents during the breeding season the difference in jaws will do very well.—⁵

Will you ask M^r Ford whether he has done the drawings of the feather of Polyplectron & Peacock.— I hope so, otherwise I shall have a terrible hunt to get out the specimens again.—⁶

With the most cordial thanks & sincere sympathy | Your’s very truly | Ch. Darwin

P.S. | Private | I wish you had told me some news about your child, & how you succeed.⁷ You have indeed had a hard & cruel lot to bear.—