My dear M^r Lewes

Your note to Down has just reached me.— I am sure I have quite as strong a wish to see you, as you can have to see me.— I have to call on Sir C. Lyell tomorrow morning & sit with him at breakfast at 9$\frac{1}{2}$ & shall try & stay only $\frac{3}{4}$ of hour; & then, as I think you will excuse so early a call, I will come on to you, & so shall be there at 10$\frac{1}{2}$—to 11.—

But I must just add that my movements are always doubtful & if I do not appear by 11, you will understand that my tiresome head has failed me.—

I am engaged on Sunday morning, otherwise I w^d not have proposed to call at such a time, & we go home quite early on Monday:² almost every afternoon I am good for nothing in this world.

Forgive these tedious particulars—

yours very sincerely | C. Darwin

I hope this note will reach you before I call.—