Summary

A draft letter [but sent in the original state by Emma Darwin]. Approves of FJW’s notice of his views.

CD has slightly revised parts in view of both approving and disapproving critics, but still remains convinced about his fundamental notions.

Summary

Proposes to examine CD at Down.

Summary

Down parish and family matters.

Summary

Apologises that CD is too unwell to do any work, but he is most interested in the frequent occurrence of inherited variations in one locality. It would have been a pleasure to visit if his health had permitted.

Summary

An amusing description of his railway journey to Shrewsbury.

Summary

Arranges for EH’s visit to Down.

Summary

CD fears he must wear Emma with his unwellness and complaints.

Summary

CD sends thanks for pamphlet.

He has been very unwell for three months; it will be long before he can apply himself to his usual pursuits.

Summary

Glad to have his letter; supposes she will receive only two or three more from him in her life.

Thinks he should leave the curtains for her.

Discusses Mungo Park and Sir Walter Scott’s Life.

Summary

Seeks to persuade CD to leave town at once, go to Shrewsbury for doctoring and some rest, then come to Maer for more rest, for he has looked "so unwell". She knows it must be hard for him to be unable to do his work.

Summary

Responds to his "business letter" about the maids, then chides herself for feeling dull and disagreeable when she has had everything all her life.

Summary

Caroline says Jos [Wedgwood III] is "much pulled down".

Summary

CD too unwell to write but has signed the [unspecified] paper and forwarded it as requested.

Summary

Discusses CD’s religious doubts. Fears his work may lead him to discount what cannot be proved, and advises that there are some things which, "if true are likely to be above our comprehension" and "that there is a danger in giving up revelation".

Summary

Responds to items in CD’s letter, just received. Suggests parts of London where he might look for a house. Gives news of friends and relatives.

Summary

Tells of Anne’s death.

Summary

CD recounts an idyllic stroll and nap – "as pleasant a rural scene as ever I saw, and I did not care one penny how any of the beasts or birds had been formed".

Summary

CD has been stomachy and sick, but not very uncomfortable.

Working on proofs [of South America] and cannot keep printer supplied with manuscript.

His thoughts of her, and news of the children who are at Down with him.

Summary

Parish and family news.

Francis Darwin’s marriage; Francis serves as CD’s assistant.

Summary

Encloses a four-page printed pamphlet on the cruelty of steel traps [see Collected papers 2: 83–4].