Dear Sir,

I have this morning received a note from Miss E. Watts, who conducts the Poultry Yard department, of the “Field” Newspaper from which she contemplates retiring and she has asked me if I should like to accept it though the remuneration is but small about /25^s a week¹   I flatter myself I am competent to the office and the money would be acceptable. I write therefore to ask you if you would permit me to refer to you as to my fitness for the possition should Miss Watts retire as she thinks, and M^r. Crockford, desire a reference—²

I am not much of a person for putting myself forward, but the possition on the “Field” might be a little help and what I think I could perform.³

As respects my law affairs, the winding up Order in Chancery was made last month, and now only remains to settle up the accounts and pay the expenses which I fear will be very heavy—⁴

I do hope I shall be able to leave this ere another winter and take a house more sheltered with a little land somewhere in Kent.⁵

I sincerely hope this will find you in improved health also that your son has recovered his strength.⁶

I have now ten children which I find rather expensive   My eldest boy is rather poorly   I fear he outgrows his strength.

I have this year succeeded in rearing one young Dove between Cock Turtle and hen collared Turtle, and they are sitting again

Believe me | Dear Sir | to remain | yours obliged | B P Brent.

To | C Darwin Esq^r.