Dear M^r. Darwin—

Will you kindly allow me to use the testimonial enclosed, or grant me another, under the following circumstances?¹

A year ago I met with a sad accident while at work, in which my son was killed and I so injured that I am compelled to resign my appointment, and shall certainly be unable to do any work for some years to come, even if I ever quite recover.²

The Treasury will grant me a pension, but it is so small that even if commuted would not cover the expenses I have already incurred. But if my application is backed up by testimony from independent sources they will—so Sir. H. Cole³ assures me—grant me an adequate sum. The matter is of vital importance to me as I am now quite cut off from all sources of income.

I am grieved to ask you to take this trouble, but if you will kindly accede to my request I shall be more than grateful. You need only send a post card with the word ‘yes’ or ‘no’, respecting the testimonial enclosed, unless you care to dictate another. I would indeed spare you even this trouble were the matter less pressing.

Ever Yours obediently | Sydney B. J. Skertchly

C. Darwin Esq^r F.R.S.