My dear Lyell

I thank you for your farewell note,—the last, for the present, of the very many most interesting letters, which you have so kindly written to me.—   I had no idea that you were going for so long;¹ I am glad to hear that you are going to Amiens: do for goodness sake invent some theory to explain how the flint gravel was spread out high & low. I am, also, glad to hear that you are going to investigate post-glacial period—   it is a most interesting question with respect to distribution & many other things.²

I was rejoiced to hear yesterday that Etty was safely moved to Hartfield on Tuesday,—of course much exhausted. I leave this place on Saturday; somewhat improved in stomach for I was very bad, & am rejoiced that I did not attempt Oxford. Huxley, Hooker & J. Lubbock (as I am pleased to hear) seem to have stuck up for modification of Species like Trojans.³ Asa Gray, as I hear to day, also goes on fighting well.—   I am in good heart on the question & think we shall in long run conquer.—

Have you seen Hopkins in last Fraser?⁴ it is very well done & in good spirit; but I regret the soul-discussion, as I have told him. He very coolly puts it as if I had based my belief on what I rank as greatest difficulties. Anyone who will put forward the difficulties alone may make a very damaging review.—

I am particularly glad to hear about the Hare-rabbits:⁵ your facts have convinced me that they are hybrids, & I never was before quite convinced.—   I forget whether it is stated that the half & half breed inter se.—   The case is the more odd as I have at least two authorities who tried with perseverence & could never get the Hare & Rabbit to breed.

Ever my dear Lyell | Yours gratefully & affectionately | C. Darwin