Dear M^r. Darwin

Farrer has sent for my perusal the papers inclosed with your letter to him of 30 Dec.¹

I have read them with great interest, and think it would be a great pity for M^r. Torbitt to discontinue his Experiments. In this M^r. Farrer agrees—and we both think that none of the money should be returned—but that if you will be so good as to hold and disburse it as you deem proper, that will be the best course.²

I notice that M^r. Torbitt desires to send specimens for trial to “friends of the Cause.” If he will send a bag (carefully distinguishing the specimens) to my Gardener.

M^r. John Murray | Gardener | Cassencary. | Creetown—³ N. B. I will instruct Murray to treat them with care—& report the result. The communication between Belfast & Creetown—(Kirkcudbrightshire) is convenient and daily.

With the kind wishes of the season | Believe me Dear M^r Darwin | yours sincerely | James Caird