Summary

Says Colburn will allow German publisher to use copperplate and woodcuts [for Journal of researches]. Has been delayed in corrections owing to death of a relative [Josiah Wedgwood II].

Summary

CD will be gratified to learn that RBH has recognised a species of Cactornis as a native of Bow Island [Hao, Tuamotu Archipelago].

Summary

Classification consists of grouping beings according to descent from common stocks. Analogies are resemblances between forms not inherited from common stocks. Neither number of species nor grade of organisation should be considered in classification. Admits that caution is necessary in admitting a few species to form a group of rank equal to one containing many species.

Summary

Has no objection to uniting Monotremata and other marsupials but would object to doing so solely on ground that Monotremata consists of only two species. Members of a natural group need not share common character so long as they are linked with those which do. Believes that if every organism that ever lived were collected, a perfect series would be presented. What are reasons that unite Aptera and Diptera?

Summary

Discusses classification of animals. Degree of affinity different for different taxonomic groups. Discusses affinity of Ornithorhynchus or Echidna to reptiles.

Brain of whale is highly developed; on differences among brains of Quadrumana.

Summary

Calls CD’s attention to an article about William Herbert’s hybrid Narcissus.

Summary

Explains what he means when he attempts a "natural classification", defining his words and using man as a standard; gives examples. Classification of Aptera and Diptera.

Discusses his discharge from the Zoological Society. Is to see Robert Brown about the British Museum position.

Summary

CD sends off his notes [corrections and additions to his Journal of researches] which he hopes ED will introduce [in German translation].

Summary

Much interested in CD’s communication [about W. Kemp] and seeds sent; does not know the species; has sent seeds to Henslow.

Describes a monstrous plant found near Ely.

Summary

Tells how W. Kemp found the seeds of Atriplex, which Lindley sent to JSH for identification.

Asks about monstrous plant mentioned by Lindley [see 690].

Summary

Seeds sent by Kemp have germinated and been identified by Lindley as Rumex acetosella and an Atriplex which has been sent on to J. S. Henslow.

Summary

Comments on his visit to N. Wales and the evidence of glaciation, of which he feels certain.

His marine theory [of the parallel roads of Glen Roy] has revived after Louis Agassiz’s "ice work" knocked it on the head.

Summary

Sends some examples of Gentiana that he thinks may shed light on the origin of double flowers. Since specimens grew in sterile soil their double flowering cannot be attributed to excess food. CD advances the hypothesis that some change in natural conditions causes sterility, which then causes compensatory development of petals, the organs closest in morphology to those whose functions have been checked.

Summary

Thanks him for specimens collected.

Comments on JED’s voyage [on H.M.S. Terror, 1839–43].

Mentions activities of old Beagle crew.

Summary

Mentions expected birth of child [Henrietta Emma].

BAAS meeting.

Comments on letters from G. R. Waterhouse and William Lonsdale.

Describes survival of apparently "fossil" seeds sent by W. Kemp.

Is at work on MS [of Volcanic islands].

Summary

Says he will call tomorrow to examine indicated specimens and books at Geological Society.

Summary

On ED’s planned edition [German] of CD’s Journal of researches.

Informs him of his forthcoming volume, Volcanic islands.

"I am well acquainted with your paper on Chatham Island ["An account of the Chatham Islands", J. R. Geogr. Soc. 11: 195–215], & … those passages on the very curious fact of the apparent specific differences of the birds there & at New Zealand".

Thanks ED for recognition of his "small labours in Natural History… . praise from men, like yourself, is the only, though quite sufficient, reward I ever expect or wish to obtain for my works. – I have lately had the extreme satisfaction of hearing that Hooker speaks highly of the accuracy … of my statements". Refers to Humboldt and Owen.

Summary

Describes germination of seeds found in sand-pit and the geological setting of the sand-pit.

Postulates existence of ancient lake along the course of the River Tweed. Notes evidence of glaciation.

Summary

Has seen fields of clover near Down affected with clover dodder.

Summary

A new ear trumpet has been sent to SC as a present.

Sends news of his publications, health, and other developments since SC left for Australia.