WCP828

[1]

DOWN,

BECKENHAM, KENT.

RAILWAY STATION

ORPINGTON. S.E.R.

Nov[ember] 23^rd 1881

My dear Wallace

Mrs Lyell has sent me a copy of Lyell’s Life; but as I did not in the least expect this, I have ordered a copy, which will arrive in a few days. — Accordingly I wrote to Mrs Lyell, saying that no doubt there were many friends of Lyell, to [2] whom she had found it impossible to send copies, & I asked her whom she would prefer that I sh[oul]d send my superfluous copy in her name, & she answered that she particularly wished it to go to you. — I write now [3] to know whether the postal address is the best for a Railway parcel, as the book is too heavy for the post. — Please send answer by return of Post. I hope that you & all of yours are well & prosperous. —

In Haste to catch the postman

Yours very sincerely| Ch[arles] Darwin [signature]