Summary

JBI has been charmed with Variation. Does not think there is really any theological difficulty in the "predestination of variation".

Summary

The election of 1868.

Remarkable deflection of the plummet observed east of Forres.

Summary

Full background on the difficulties of the vicarage of Down.

Summary

Describes a supposed cross between a cow and a red deer or doe.

Summary

Will try to get more information about the supposed hybrid [of cow and deer].

The rumours about John Robinson [curate of Down] cause JBI concern. He will seek to get the facts – will try to protect Robinson against malicious rumours, but if he is immoral he must go forthwith.

Summary

Hopes Miss [Sarah Elizabeth] Wedgwood will sell part of her land for a parsonage at Down. Recounts his futile efforts to obtain land in the past.

Encloses news item about the supposed hybrid [of cow and deer].

Summary

Has forwarded a veterinary surgeon’s description of the supposed hybrid [of cow and deer, see 6504]. A neighbour who has seen it is convinced it is genuine.

JBI can do no more about John Robinson.

Summary

R. H. Hutton has given a paper about CD at Liverpool Church Congress.

JBI has seen four milk-white partridges among brown ones this year.

Summary

Sends Guardian containing Hutton’s paper on CD.

Discusses Henry Powell, the new vicar of Down, and plans for the parsonage.

Summary

JBI sends clipping about a hybrid between a deer and a cow, from the same parish as the one reported in 1868.

Summary

JBI regrets his part in appointments of his successors.

His friendship with CD and its effect on his fellow clerics.

Summary

Has finished Descent, which charmed but did not convert him.

Sends examples of dogs’ reasoning.

Has given up his farm.

Summary

On Down parish matters.

Summary

Writes about a white rabbit which is turning fawn-coloured,

and about Scottish education.