My dear W.

I am much disturbed in my mind what best to do with the ^£3000, the value of my U. States Funded Loan.— I have so much in Railways that these, I think, had better be avoided.—² I see in newspaper that a million $ Bonds have been offered to the States to be renewed at the 3$\frac{1}{2}$ per cent. interest; & does this not show that in the States this is thought a fair offer for a good security?³

Please settle for me, if I retain the Bonds at this interest, I believe that notice sh^d. be given (I suppose through the U. Bank)⁴ immediately.—

If I allow the Bonds to be paid off, then you will have to advise me hereafter about some accrued investment—in August, I think.—

Pray settle what I had better do. & let me hear. | your affect Father | C. Darwin

Idleness tempts me to accept the 3$\frac{1}{2}$. Bonds.