From J. K. Fowler   9 October 1871

Dear Sir.—

At the Central Farmers Club, on the first Monday in next December—I have undertaken to read, at the request of several of my Agricultural friends—a paper, on “Breeding— Facts—& Principles”—and last week in conversation with M^r. Bartlett, at the Zoological Gardens, he mentioned that I might venture to write to you for some hints on the subject—¹ From a close perusal of your admirable works, and information I have had of your kindness & courtesy, I have presumed to ask if you will kindly aid me in giving me a few facts, if I should require them.— My broad view which I have a desire to establish is, “that the Male exercises the greatest influence on the external appearances, especially the locomotive powers, and the internal organisation, to a great extent, follows the female”— if this can in the main be proven—as breeders of food for the people, we farmers, will be much aided in our efforts— I need not tell you that this is no new theory but was broached before farmers some years ago—in 1854—by M^r. Reginald Orton in a paper read before the Newcastle Farmers Club—on “the Physiology of Breeding”—& it has been occasionally touched on since—but as most of the best Shorthorn, & other Cattle breeders will be present at our Meeting during the great Cattle Show in Dec^br., we anticipate some utility in discussing it—² If you can therefore give me a hint as to what works I may safely study, and also inform me whether you agree with my View in the main—and can assist me in this most desirable matter—I shall esteem it a very great favour—³

The great price at which Butchers meat has arrived, and the desirability of feeding our increasing population demands serious attention, and probably hints may be obtained of great value for the future—& I am sure from the universal fame of your name anything from your pen will carry great weight— If it would not be asking you too much, I would venture to beg an interview with you—& would come to Town some day & run down to have a few words with you— Apologising for thus troubling you | I remain | Most truly yours | John K. Fowler

Prebendal Farms, Aylesbury—