My dear Hooker

I am very sorry to trouble you, but I hope that you will read the enclosed letter carefully, and express a judgment on it addressed to me, or what I think would be better to Farrer.² He, and M^r. Caird seem nearly determined, if you express a favourable opinion, to act, either by applying to government or getting up a small subscription amongst agriculturists³

They think our joint opinion would be as good as a memorial signed by a dozen men. If on further reflection you consider the plan utopian or useless, I shall throw-up the case. I have sent M^r. T. £100 which he says he will not use at present;⁴ and shall tell him that I can help him no more. Will you return me the enclosed, together with your judgment, which I will then forward to Farrer.⁵

Yours very sincerely | Charles Darwin

I should go frantic mad if I was in your place & had daily to consider memorials & such devilish work.—