My Dear Darwin

I have been to Adelsberg Cave¹—and brought back with me a live Proteus anguinus, designed for you from the moment I got it—i.e. if you have got an aquarium, and would care to have it.² I only returned last night from the Continent and hearing from your brother, that you are about to go to Torquay, I lose no time in making you the offer.³ The poor dear animal is still alive—although it has had no appreciable means of sustenance for a month—and I am most anxious to get rid of the responsibility of starving it longer. In your hands it will thrive—and have a fair chance of being developed without delay, into some type of the Columbidæ—say a Pouter or a Tumbler.

My Dear Darwin, I have been rambling through the north of Italy, and Germany lately. Every where have I heard your views, and your admirable essay canvassed— the views of course often dissented from, according to the special bias of the speaker—but the work—its honesty of purpose—grandeur of conception—felicity of illustration—and courageous exposition—always referred to in terms of the highest admiration. And among your warmest friends, no one rejoiced more heartily in the just appreciation of Charles Darwin than did,

Yours very truly | H Falconer