To B. J. Sulivan   24 January 1872

My dear Sulivan

I think it doubtful whether Agassiz w^d have time for the work, but if you do not grudge the time it w^d be well worth while to send him the requisite particulars.¹ A wonderful amount of light might be thrown on the history of mammals by a large collection made on this spot. If you w^d have the kindness to write a few words to Agassiz saying that I had advised you to do so, it w^d save my writing a somewhat long letter, & w^d do equally well. I am sorry to hear that your specimens have been neglected at the Coll. of Surgeons; but of late years Owen, I suppose from being overworked, neglected as I believe many things. The present head-man at the Coll. viz. Prof. Flower is a first-rate & indefatigable worker.²

I shall like to see the Photo. of Philip King & will return it,³ but as I feel as old as Methuselah, I do not require it to make me know how old I am—

My daughter is going to visit the Langtons at Bournemouth & hopes to call on Lady Sulivan & your daughters—⁴

With very kind regards from my wife believe | me yours sincerely | Ch. Darwin

I am not well & much overworked.