WCP5670

[1]

Parkstone, Dorset.

June 27th. 1891

My dear Sharpe[,]

Many thanks for sending me your Address on Classification of Birds. It is most interesting, & much of it new to me as I have for the last few years paid no attention to general ornithological literature. The specialists who found classifications in single anatomical characters are now so numerous & arrive at conclusions so often opposed to each other that we seem to be driven back after all to external character [2] and habits, with assistance from the specialists here & there in doubtful cases. Your maps are especially interesting and I quite agree that that is the best way to show the position & affinities of existing groups.

Everett¹ has sent me enclosed list of additions to Philippine Birds. Will you please run over it, crossing out duplicate entries or synonyms, and giving the locality or range (generally) of species most peculiar to Philippines. And please return it as soon [3] as you can.

Believe me │ Yours very faithfully[,]

Alfred R. Wallace [signature]