Dear Darwin

It is Zizania aquatica—(Canadian Rice)¹   I thought that you grew it.

I did observe that Ophrys apifera fertilized itself—as you describe—& I think also O. lutea.²

I tried for expression, but the people are too civilized—& so taciturn & unpleasant with Christians, that their features were too constrained to make anything out of.— I really believe that the Moraines are the only points in my journey worth much.; except the negative results of no Alpines on the Atlas!³

I hardly like Lyell’s travelling about & feel very anxious & dissatisfied about him. Murchison’s condition shows how much may be accomplished by real Medical skill, & I do fear that the “sisterhood” will sacrifice our dear dear friend to their bigotry— I assume that he is in the talons of the Homeopathists—⁴

Rosamund Lyell⁵ comes here on Saturday, & I will make out & let you know.

Yours | J D Hooker