My dear Sir

It would be a real pleasure to me to see you here;² but I am very sorry to say that I cannot at present offer to do so.

I have had an ugly head attack, (though the Doctors think the symptoms are only secondary) & they insist on my living very quietly & on strict rule.—³ I can assure you half-an-hour’s interesting conversation with anyone whom I do not habitually see, especially in the afternoon, would quite upset me, though I am able to do regular work at my regular times. Under these circumstances I feel sure that you will excuse me.—

I am sure that I wish all success to the Gard. Chronicle, though I doubt whether my advice c^d. be of any service.

My dear Sir | Yours very faithfully | Ch. Darwin