To Charles Lyell 17 July 1854

My dear Sir,

I am very much obliged by the specimens of Sisyrynchium Anceps (which they undoubtedly are) from the W. Coast of Ireland. The fact, however, is not novel - but I believe your observation extends the limits beyond those before known. Prof. Harvey on first receiving the plant asked the sender to forward him a good batch of it dried, & the party not knowing what he meant, sent him a bundle dried as in a Haystack! I am truly glad to see your handwriting again - & hope all is prosperous with you. My eldest son took his degree at X^mas - my second goes to College in Oct - having first left Bury School with the first scholarship of 40£ for the year, a gold medal for Latin composition, & 3 other prizes of books for being Captain, for Hebrew, & 2^dfor Mathematics. He is also Captain in Cricket!

Ever yrs truly

J. S. Henslow

Perhaps it will amuse you to see how I try to diffuse a little instruction in Natural History among my neighbours at our Village Horticultural Fete. The day was sadly wet but a Marquee Museum on such occasion is a good thing to fall back upon. I have a most miscellaneous collection of everythings in an attic, & am thankful to all contributors, that I may be able from time to time to produce novelties.