Sir

My colleagues in the Royal Commission on the subject of Experiments upon Living Animals for scientific purposes have desired me to say, on their part & my own, how great is the value we shall attach to your opinions, if you should feel able to give them to us.¹

We know that your health renders it necessary for you to be very careful,—& do not feel sure that you will be able to comply with our request. At the same time we know also that you feel a great interest in the subject, on the score of humanity, as well as of science:—& are confident that you will be disposed to give us your assistance, if it shall be in your power to do so.

We shall sit every day next week except Friday, and will readily make any appointment which may be most convenient to yourself.²

I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient faithful Servant | Cardwell

Charles Darwin Esq^r &c. &c. &c.