To E. R. Lankester   22 March [1871]¹

My dear Sir

Many thanks for your note.² Could you procure for me a photograph (if it be really taken) of your friend’s ear.³ M^r. Woolner’s drawing, though I have no doubt accurate, does not seem to me good, and I could have the photograph engraved, of course not mentioning to whom the ear belonged.—⁴ Your intention of studying the development of the mollusca seems very good and I wish you all success.

You ask about my opinion on vivisection. I quite agree that it is justifiable for real investigations on physiology; but not for mere damnable and detestable curiosity. It is a subject which makes me sick with horror, so I will not say another word about it, else I shall not sleep to-night.

I think you will be glad to hear, as a proof of the increasing liberality of England, that my book has sold wonderfully.... and as yet no abuse (though some, no doubt, will come, strong enough), and only contempt even in the poor old Athenæum.⁵

Pray believe me, my dear Sir | Yours sincerely | Ch. Darwin