My dear Sir:—

Your very kind and highly appreciated letter was duly received.² I gave the photographs to Mr. M^c Donald and at his studio yesterday he informed me that he would begin at once.³ He is an ardent Darwinian. He purposes making a marble bust for the Club, and either bronze or plaster to distribute through the States. One will be sent to you for your criticism, and that of your personal friends. Mr. Mc. Donald ranks very high among American sculptors, and we all expect him to produce a work worthy his illustrious subject, and his own reputation. It is my pleasure and honour to inform that at a regular meeting of our Club last Friday evening you were unanimously elected an honourary member thereof.⁴ Will you not, honoured Sir, (if you can command the leisure), in your letter of acceptance, please address a few words of advice as to the Method for those who desire to make a beginning in biological studies, (not the Spencerian method, which I believe to be without much experimental, personal-experimental basis) but a practical Method for biological beginners.⁵ For example, I have a vacation of 3 months this summer and I desire to spend it in the fields and on the sea-shore, working practically & not bookishly. There are many young Americans like myself in this category full of zeal but almost without a guide. If too you would be so good as to recommend books for our Library it would be highly appreciated. I am preparing a paper contra Mivart for the Club.⁶

Believe me with sentiments of profound respect and gratitude | Your obedient servant | Charles Balch. | recently elected | Corresponding Secretary | N.Y. Liberal Club.⁷

Charles Darwin F.R.S. et.c