Sir—

I return my heartfelt thanks for the present with which you honoured me of your recent book, on “The expression of the emotions in man and animals.”¹ Circumstances that would be of very little interest to you, prevented me from doing it sooner.

I will not tresspass upon your time. Allow me however to take this opportunity for calling your attention to the importance of saving from utter destruction some at least of the anthropoid quadrumans. The still living specimens of those types are to be found in countries over which England has directly or indirectly a control. Could not some means be devised to tame and study, in their own climate, a number of those apes, with a view to ascertain to what extent they can be instructed and developed. Should they, for instance, be taught to speak (though imperfectly), as does not appear entirely hopeless from facts I related in my “Etudes sur les facultés mentales des animaux,” vol. II, p. 288 & 308–311, what important bearing would not have this point on the question of development?² Shall these little families be allowed to become extinct, without a more thorough inquiry being made into their capabilities, on the spot where they live, and where alone they can preserve their health and thereby show all their powers.

I venture this suggestion, for, should no stock be saved by domestication, the anthropoids will soon partake of the fate of the “Dronte,” the “Rytina,” &c,³ and the loss to the student of nature will be irreparable.

Be kind enough to excuse my bad English, and believe me, Sir, your most obedient Serv^t. | J. C. Houzeau.