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diff --git a/2088-h/2088-h.htm b/2088-h/2088-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ae55c81 --- /dev/null +++ b/2088-h/2088-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,23717 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" +"http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Volume II (of II), by Charles Darwin</title> + +<style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + +body { margin-left: 20%; + margin-right: 20%; + text-align: justify; } + +p { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + +H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + +hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + +.toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + +pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +div.fig { display:block; + margin:0 auto; + text-align:center; + margin-top: 1em; + margin-bottom: 1em;} + +a:link {color:blue; text-decoration:none} +a:visited {color:blue; text-decoration:none} +a:hover {color:red} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + +<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Volume II (of II), by Charles Darwin</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and +most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions +whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms +of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online +at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you +are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the +country where you are located before using this eBook. +</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Volume II (of II)<br /> + Edited by His Son</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Charles Darwin</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Editor: Francis Darwin</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: February 2000 [eBook #2088]<br /> +[Most recently updated: January 15, 2022]</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Sue Asscher and David Widger</div> +<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LIFE AND LETTERS OF DARWIN, VOL II ***</div> + + <h1> + THE LIFE AND LETTERS OF <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Volume II + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Charles Darwin + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Including An Autobiographical Chapter + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Edited By His Son Francis Darwin + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img alt="darwin_1881 (88K)" src="images/darwin_1881.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> TRANSCRIPT OF A FACSIMILE OF A PAGE FROM A + NOTE-BOOK OF 1837. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <big><b>LIFE AND LETTERS OF CHARLES DARWIN.</b></big> + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> VOLUME II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER 2.I. — THE PUBLICATION OF THE + 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER 2.II. — THE 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES' + (continued). </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER 2.III. — SPREAD OF EVOLUTION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER 2.IV. — THE SPREAD OF EVOLUTION. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER 2.V. — THE PUBLICATION OF THE + 'VARIATION OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS UNDER DOMESTICATION.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER 2.VI. — WORK ON 'MAN.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER 2.VII. — PUBLICATION OF THE + 'DESCENT OF MAN.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER 2.VIII. — MISCELLANEA </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER 2.IX. — MISCELLANEA (continued) + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER 2.X. — FERTILISATION OF FLOWERS. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER 2.XI. — THE 'EFFECTS OF CROSS- AND + SELF-FERTILISATION </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER 2.XII. — 'DIFFERENT FORMS OF + FLOWERS ON PLANTS OF THE SAME SPECIES.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER 2.XIII. — CLIMBING AND + INSECTIVOROUS PLANTS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER 2.XIV. — THE 'POWER OF MOVEMENT IN + PLANTS.' </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER 2.XV. — MISCELLANEOUS BOTANICAL + LETTERS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER 2.XVI. — CONCLUSION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE1"> APPENDIX I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE2"> APPENDIX II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE"> Notes upon the Rhea Americana. Zoology Society + Proc., Part v. 1837. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE2"> Notes on the Effects produced by the Ancient + Glaciers of </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE3"> Notes on the Fertilization of Orchids. Annals and + Magazine of Natural </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE3"> APPENDIX III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE4"> APPENDIX IV. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + TRANSCRIPT OF A FACSIMILE OF A PAGE FROM A NOTE-BOOK OF 1837. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img alt="facsimile (80K)" src="images/facsimile.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + —led to comprehend true affinities. My theory would give zest to + recent & Fossil Comparative Anatomy: it would lead to study of + instincts, heredity, & mind heredity, whole metaphysics, it would lead + to closest examination of hybridity & generation, causes of change in + order to know what we have come from & to what we tend, to what + circumstances favour crossing & what prevents it, this & direct + examination of direct passages of structure in species, might lead to laws + of change, which would then be main object of study, to guide our + speculations. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + LIFE AND LETTERS OF CHARLES DARWIN. + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VOLUME II. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.I. — THE PUBLICATION OF THE 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES.' + </h2> + <h3> + OCTOBER 3, 1859, TO DECEMBER 31, 1859. + </h3> + <p> + 1859. + </p> + <p> + [Under the date of October 1st, 1859, in my father's Diary occurs the + entry: "Finished proofs (thirteen months and ten days) of Abstract on + 'Origin of Species'; 1250 copies printed. The first edition was published + on November 24th, and all copies sold first day." + </p> + <p> + On October 2d he started for a water-cure establishment at Ilkley, near + Leeds, where he remained with his family until December, and on the 9th of + that month he was again at Down. The only other entry in the Diary for + this year is as follows: "During end of November and beginning of + December, employed in correcting for second edition of 3000 copies; + multitude of letters." + </p> + <p> + The first and a few of the subsequent letters refer to proof sheets, and + to early copies of the 'Origin' which were sent to friends before the book + was published.] + </p> + <p> + C. LYELL TO CHARLES DARWIN. (Part of this letter is given in the 'Life of + Sir Charles Lyell,' volume ii. page 325.) October 3d, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I have just finished your volume and right glad I am that I did my best + with Hooker to persuade you to publish it without waiting for a time which + probably could never have arrived, though you lived till the age of a + hundred, when you had prepared all your facts on which you ground so many + grand generalizations. + </p> + <p> + It is a splendid case of close reasoning, and long substantial argument + throughout so many pages; the condensation immense, too great perhaps for + the uninitiated, but an effective and important preliminary statement, + which will admit, even before your detailed proofs appear, of some + occasional useful exemplification, such as your pigeons and cirripedes, of + which you make such excellent use. + </p> + <p> + I mean that, when, as I fully expect, a new edition is soon called for, + you may here and there insert an actual case to relieve the vast number of + abstract propositions. So far as I am concerned, I am so well prepared to + take your statements of facts for granted, that I do not think the "pieces + justificatives" when published will make much difference, and I have long + seen most clearly that if any concession is made, all that you claim in + your concluding pages will follow. It is this which has made me so long + hesitate, always feeling that the case of Man and his races, and of other + animals, and that of plants is one and the same, and that if a "vera + causa" be admitted for one, instead of a purely unknown and imaginary one, + such as the word "Creation," all the consequences must follow. + </p> + <p> + I fear I have not time to-day, as I am just leaving this place, to indulge + in a variety of comments, and to say how much I was delighted with Oceanic + Islands—Rudimentary Organs—Embryology—the genealogical + key to the Natural System, Geographical Distribution, and if I went on I + should be copying the heads of all your chapters. But I will say a word of + the Recapitulation, in case some slight alteration, or at least, omission + of a word or two be still possible in that. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, at page 480, it cannot surely be said that the most + eminent naturalists have rejected the view of the mutability of species? + You do not mean to ignore G. St. Hilaire and Lamarck. As to the latter, + you may say, that in regard to animals you substitute natural selection + for volition to a certain considerable extent, but in his theory of the + changes of plants he could not introduce volition; he may, no doubt, have + laid an undue comparative stress on changes in physical conditions, and + too little on those of contending organisms. He at least was for the + universal mutability of species and for a genealogical link between the + first and the present. The men of his school also appealed to domesticated + varieties. (Do you mean LIVING naturalists?) (In the published copies of + the first edition, page 480, the words are "eminent living naturalists.") + </p> + <p> + The first page of this most important summary gives the adversary an + advantage, by putting forth so abruptly and crudely such a startling + objection as the formation of "the eye," not by means analogous to man's + reason, or rather by some power immeasurably superior to human reason, but + by superinduced variation like those of which a cattle-breeder avails + himself. Pages would be required thus to state an objection and remove it. + It would be better, as you wish to persuade, to say nothing. Leave out + several sentences, and in a future edition bring it out more fully. + Between the throwing down of such a stumbling-block in the way of the + reader, and the passage to the working ants, in page 460, there are pages + required; and these ants are a bathos to him before he has recovered from + the shock of being called upon to believe the eye to have been brought to + perfection, from a state of blindness or purblindness, by such variations + as we witness. I think a little omission would greatly lessen the + objectionableness of these sentences if you have not time to recast and + amplify. + </p> + <p> + ... But these are small matters, mere spots on the sun. Your comparison of + the letters retained in words, when no longer wanted for the sound, to + rudimentary organs is excellent, as both are truly genealogical. + </p> + <p> + The want of peculiar birds in Madeira is a greater difficulty than seemed + to me allowed for. I could cite passages where you show that variations + are superinduced from the new circumstances of new colonists, which would + require some Madeira birds, like those of the Galapagos, to be peculiar. + There has been ample time in the case of Madeira and Porto Santo... + </p> + <p> + You enclose your sheets in old MS., so the Post Office very properly + charge them as letters, 2 pence extra. I wish all their fines on MS. were + worth as much. I paid 4 shillings 6 pence for such wash the other day from + Paris, from a man who can prove 300 deluges in the valley of the Seine. + </p> + <p> + With my hearty congratulations to you on your grand work, believe me, + </p> + <p> + Ever very affectionately yours, CHAS. LYELL. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Ilkley, Yorkshire, October 11th + [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I thank you cordially for giving me so much of your valuable time in + writing me the long letter of 3d, and still longer of 4th. I wrote a line + with the missing proof-sheet to Scarborough. I have adopted most + thankfully all your minor corrections in the last chapter, and the greater + ones as far as I could with little trouble. I damped the opening passage + about the eye (in my bigger work I show the gradations in structure of the + eye) by putting merely "complex organs." But you are a pretty Lord + Chancellor to tell the barrister on one side how best to win the cause! + The omission of "living" before eminent naturalists was a dreadful + blunder. + </p> + <p> + MADEIRA AND BERMUDA BIRDS NOT PECULIAR. + </p> + <p> + You are right, there is a screw out here; I thought no one would have + detected it; I blundered in omitting a discussion, which I have written + out in full. But once for all, let me say as an excuse, that it was most + difficult to decide what to omit. Birds, which have struggled in their own + homes, when settled in a body, nearly simultaneously in a new country, + would not be subject to much modification, for their mutual relations + would not be much disturbed. But I quite agree with you, that in time they + ought to undergo some. In Bermuda and Madeira they have, as I believe, + been kept constant by the frequent arrival, and the crossing with + unaltered immigrants of the same species from the mainland. In Bermuda + this can be proved, in Madeira highly probable, as shown me by letters + from E.V. Harcourt. Moreover, there are ample grounds for believing that + the crossed offspring of the new immigrants (fresh blood as breeders would + say), and old colonists of the same species would be extra vigorous, and + would be the most likely to survive; thus the effects of such crossing in + keeping the old colonists unaltered would be much aided. + </p> + <p> + ON GALAPAGOS PRODUCTIONS HAVING AMERICAN TYPE ON VIEW OF CREATION. + </p> + <p> + I cannot agree with you, that species if created to struggle with American + forms, would have to be created on the American type. Facts point + diametrically the other way. Look at the unbroken and untilled ground in + La Plata, COVERED with European products, which have no near affinity to + the indigenous products. They are not American types which conquer the + aborigines. So in every island throughout the world. Alph. De Candolle's + results (though he does not see its full importance), that thoroughly well + naturalised [plants] are in general very different from the aborigines + (belonging in large proportion of cases to non-indigenous genera) is most + important always to bear in mind. Once for all, I am sure, you will + understand that I thus write dogmatically for brevity sake. + </p> + <p> + ON THE CONTINUED CREATION Of MONADS. + </p> + <p> + This doctrine is superfluous (and groundless) on the theory of Natural + Selection, which implies no NECESSARY tendency to progression. A monad, if + no deviation in its structure profitable to it under its EXCESSIVELY + SIMPLE conditions of life occurred, might remain unaltered from long + before the Silurian Age to the present day. I grant there will generally + be a tendency to advance in complexity of organisation, though in beings + fitted for very simple conditions it would be slight and slow. How could a + complex organisation profit a monad? if it did not profit it there would + be no advance. The Secondary Infusoria differ but little from the living. + The parent monad form might perfectly well survive unaltered and fitted + for its simple conditions, whilst the offspring of this very monad might + become fitted for more complex conditions. The one primordial prototype of + all living and extinct creatures may, it is possible, be now alive! + Moreover, as you say, higher forms might be occasionally degraded, the + snake Typhlops SEEMS (?!) to have the habits of earth-worms. So that fresh + creatures of simple forms seem to me wholly superfluous. + </p> + <p> + "MUST YOU NOT ASSUME A PRIMEVAL CREATIVE POWER WHICH DOES NOT ACT WITH + UNIFORMITY, OR HOW COULD MAN SUPERVENE?" + </p> + <p> + I am not sure that I understand your remarks which follow the above. We + must under present knowledge assume the creation of one or of a few forms + in the same manner as philosophers assume the existence of a power of + attraction without any explanation. But I entirely reject, as in my + judgment quite unnecessary, any subsequent addition "of new powers and + attributes and forces;" or of any "principle of improvement," except in so + far as every character which is naturally selected or preserved is in some + way an advantage or improvement, otherwise it would not have been + selected. If I were convinced that I required such additions to the theory + of natural selection, I would reject it as rubbish, but I have firm faith + in it, as I cannot believe, that if false, it would explain so many whole + classes of facts, which, if I am in my senses, it seems to explain. As far + as I understand your remarks and illustrations, you doubt the possibility + of gradations of intellectual powers. Now, it seems to me, looking to + existing animals alone, that we have a very fine gradation in the + intellectual powers of the Vertebrata, with one rather wide gap (not half + so wide as in many cases of corporeal structure), between say a Hottentot + and a Ourang, even if civilised as much mentally as the dog has been from + the wolf. I suppose that you do not doubt that the intellectual powers are + as important for the welfare of each being as corporeal structure; if so, + I can see no difficulty in the most intellectual individuals of a species + being continually selected; and the intellect of the new species thus + improved, aided probably by effects of inherited mental exercise. I look + at this process as now going on with the races of man; the less + intellectual races being exterminated. But there is not space to discuss + this point. If I understand you, the turning-point in our difference must + be, that you think it impossible that the intellectual powers of a species + should be much improved by the continued natural selection of the most + intellectual individuals. To show how minds graduate, just reflect how + impossible every one has yet found it, to define the difference in mind of + man and the lower animals; the latter seem to have the very same + attributes in a much lower stage of perfection than the lowest savage. I + would give absolutely nothing for the theory of Natural Selection, if it + requires miraculous additions at any one stage of descent. I think + Embryology, Homology, Classification, etc., etc., show us that all + vertebrata have descended from one parent; how that parent appeared we + know not. If you admit in ever so little a degree, the explanation which I + have given of Embryology, Homology and Classification, you will find it + difficult to say: thus far the explanation holds good, but no further; + here we must call in "the addition of new creative forces." I think you + will be driven to reject all or admit all: I fear by your letter it will + be the former alternative; and in that case I shall feel sure it is my + fault, and not the theory's fault, and this will certainly comfort me. + With regard to the descent of the great Kingdoms (as Vertebrata, + Articulata, etc.) from one parent, I have said in the conclusion, that + mere analogy makes me think it probable; my arguments and facts are sound + in my judgment only for each separate kingdom. + </p> + <p> + THE FORMS WHICH ARE BEATEN INHERITING SOME INFERIORITY IN COMMON. + </p> + <p> + I dare say I have not been guarded enough, but might not the term + inferiority include less perfect adaptation to physical conditions? + </p> + <p> + My remarks apply not to single species, but to groups or genera; the + species of most genera are adapted at least to rather hotter, and rather + less hot, to rather damper and dryer climates; and when the several + species of a group are beaten and exterminated by the several species of + another group, it will not, I think, generally be from EACH new species + being adapted to the climate, but from all the new species having some + common advantage in obtaining sustenance, or escaping enemies. As groups + are concerned, a fairer illustration than negro and white in Liberia would + be the almost certain future extinction of the genus ourang by the genus + man, not owing to man being better fitted for the climate, but owing to + the inherited intellectual inferiority of the Ourang-genus to Man-genus, + by his intellect, inventing fire-arms and cutting down forests. I believe + from reasons given in my discussion, that acclimatisation is readily + effected under nature. It has taken me so many years to disabuse my mind + of the TOO great importance of climate—its important influence being + so conspicuous, whilst that of a struggle between creature and creature is + so hidden—that I am inclined to swear at the North Pole, and, as + Sydney Smith said, even to speak disrespectfully of the Equator. I beg you + often to reflect (I have found NOTHING so instructive) on the case of + thousands of plants in the middle point of their respective ranges, and + which, as we positively know, can perfectly well withstand a little more + heat and cold, a little more damp and dry, but which in the metropolis of + their range do not exist in vast numbers, although if many of the other + inhabitants were destroyed [they] would cover the ground. We thus clearly + see that their numbers are kept down, in almost every case, not by + climate, but by the struggle with other organisms. All this you will + perhaps think very obvious; but, until I repeated it to myself thousands + of times, I took, as I believe, a wholly wrong view of the whole economy + of nature... + </p> + <p> + HYBRIDISM. + </p> + <p> + I am so much pleased that you approve of this chapter; you would be + astonished at the labour this cost me; so often was I, on what I believe + was, the wrong scent. + </p> + <p> + RUDIMENTARY ORGANS. + </p> + <p> + On the theory of Natural Selection there is a wide distinction between + Rudimentary Organs and what you call germs of organs, and what I call in + my bigger book "nascent" organs. An organ should not be called rudimentary + unless it be useless—as teeth which never cut through the gums—the + papillae, representing the pistil in male flowers, wing of Apteryx, or + better, the little wings under soldered elytra. These organs are now + plainly useless, and a fortiori, they would be useless in a less developed + state. Natural Selection acts exclusively by preserving successive slight, + USEFUL modifications. Hence Natural Selection cannot possibly make a + useless or rudimentary organ. Such organs are solely due to inheritance + (as explained in my discussion), and plainly bespeak an ancestor having + the organ in a useful condition. They may be, and often have been, worked + in for other purposes, and then they are only rudimentary for the original + function, which is sometimes plainly apparent. A nascent organ, though + little developed, as it has to be developed must be useful in every stage + of development. As we cannot prophesy, we cannot tell what organs are now + nascent; and nascent organs will rarely have been handed down by certain + members of a class from a remote period to the present day, for beings + with any important organ but little developed, will generally have been + supplanted by their descendants with the organ well developed. The mammary + glands in Ornithorhynchus may, perhaps, be considered as nascent compared + with the udders of a cow—Ovigerous frena, in certain cirripedes, are + nascent branchiae—in [illegible] the swim bladder is almost + rudimentary for this purpose, and is nascent as a lung. The small wing of + penguin, used only as a fin, might be nascent as a wing; not that I think + so; for the whole structure of the bird is adapted for flight, and a + penguin so closely resembles other birds, that we may infer that its wings + have probably been modified, and reduced by natural selection, in + accordance with its sub-aquatic habits. Analogy thus often serves as a + guide in distinguishing whether an organ is rudimentary or nascent. I + believe the Os coccyx gives attachment to certain muscles, but I can not + doubt that it is a rudimentary tail. The bastard wing of birds is a + rudimentary digit; and I believe that if fossil birds are found very low + down in the series, they will be seen to have a double or bifurcated wing. + Here is a bold prophecy! + </p> + <p> + To admit prophetic germs, is tantamount to rejecting the theory of Natural + Selection. + </p> + <p> + I am very glad you think it worth while to run through my book again, as + much, or more, for the subject's sake as for my own sake. But I look at + your keeping the subject for some little time before your mind—raising + your own difficulties and solving them—as far more important than + reading my book. If you think enough, I expect you will be perverted, and + if you ever are, I shall know that the theory of Natural Selection, is, in + the main, safe; that it includes, as now put forth, many errors, is almost + certain, though I cannot see them. Do not, of course, think of answering + this; but if you have other OCCASION to write again, just say whether I + have, in ever so slight a degree, shaken any of your objections. Farewell. + With my cordial thanks for your long letters and valuable remarks, + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—You often allude to Lamarck's work; I do not know what you + think about it, but it appeared to me extremely poor; I got not a fact or + idea from it. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO L. AGASSIZ. (Jean Louis Rodolphe Agassiz, born + at Mortier, on the lake of Morat in Switzerland, on May 28, 1807. He + emigrated to America in 1846, where he spent the rest of his life, and + died December 14, 1873. His 'Life,' written by his widow, was published in + 1885. The following extract from a letter to Agassiz (1850) is worth + giving, as showing how my father regarded him, and it may be added that + his cordial feelings towards the great American naturalist remained strong + to the end of his life:— + </p> + <p> + "I have seldom been more deeply gratified than by receiving your most kind + present of 'Lake Superior.' I had heard of it, and had much wished to read + it, but I confess that it was the very great honour of having in my + possession a work with your autograph as a presentation copy that has + given me such lively and sincere pleasure. I cordially thank you for it. I + have begun to read it with uncommon interest, which I see will increase as + I go on.") Down, November 11th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have ventured to send you a copy of my book (as yet only an abstract) on + the 'Origin of Species.' As the conclusions at which I have arrived on + several points differ so widely from yours, I have thought (should you at + any time read my volume) that you might think that I had sent it to you + out of a spirit of defiance or bravado; but I assure you that I act under + a wholly different frame of mind. I hope that you will at least give me + credit, however erroneous you may think my conclusions, for having + earnestly endeavoured to arrive at the truth. With sincere respect, I beg + leave to remain, + </p> + <p> + Yours, very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. DE CANDOLLE. Down, November 11th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have thought that you would permit me to send you (by Messrs. Williams + and Norgate, booksellers) a copy of my work (as yet only an abstract) on + the 'Origin of Species.' I wish to do this, as the only, though quite + inadequate manner, by which I can testify to you the extreme interest + which I have felt, and the great advantage which I have derived, from + studying your grand and noble work on Geographical Distribution. Should + you be induced to read my volume, I venture to remark that it will be + intelligible only by reading the whole straight through, as it is very + much condensed. It would be a high gratification to me if any portion + interested you. But I am perfectly well aware that you will entirely + disagree with the conclusion at which I have arrived. + </p> + <p> + You will probably have quite forgotten me; but many years ago you did me + the honour of dining at my house in London to meet M. and Madame Sismondi + (Jessie Allen, sister of Mrs. Josiah Wedgwood of Maer.), the uncle and + aunt of my wife. With sincere respect, I beg to remain, + </p> + <p> + Yours, very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO HUGH FALCONER. Down, November 11th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Falconer, + </p> + <p> + I have told Murray to send you a copy of my book on the 'Origin of + Species,' which as yet is only an abstract. + </p> + <p> + If you read it, you must read it straight through, otherwise from its + extremely condensed state it will be unintelligible. + </p> + <p> + Lord, how savage you will be, if you read it, and how you will long to + crucify me alive! I fear it will produce no other effect on you; but if it + should stagger you in ever so slight a degree, in this case, I am fully + convinced that you will become, year after year, less fixed in your belief + in the immutability of species. With this audacious and presumptuous + conviction, + </p> + <p> + I remain, my dear Falconer, Yours most truly, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, November 11th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have directed a copy of my book (as yet only an abstract) on the 'Origin + of Species' to be sent you. I know how you are pressed for time; but if + you can read it, I shall be infinitely gratified...If ever you do read it, + and can screw out time to send me (as I value your opinion so highly), + however short a note, telling me what you think its weakest and best + parts, I should be extremely grateful. As you are not a geologist, you + will excuse my conceit in telling you that Lyell highly approves of the + two Geological chapters, and thinks that on the Imperfection of the + Geological Record not exaggerated. He is nearly a convert to my views... + </p> + <p> + Let me add I fully admit that there are very many difficulties not + satisfactorily explained by my theory of descent with modification, but I + cannot possibly believe that a false theory would explain so many classes + of facts as I think it certainly does explain. On these grounds I drop my + anchor, and believe that the difficulties will slowly disappear... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.S. HENSLOW. Down, November 11th, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Henslow, + </p> + <p> + I have told Murray to send a copy of my book on Species to you, my dear + old master in Natural History; I fear, however, that you will not approve + of your pupil in this case. The book in its present state does not show + the amount of labour which I have bestowed on the subject. + </p> + <p> + If you have time to read it carefully, and would take the trouble to point + out what parts seem weakest to you and what best, it would be a most + material aid to me in writing my bigger book, which I hope to commence in + a few months. You know also how highly I value your judgment. But I am not + so unreasonable as to wish or expect you to write detailed and lengthy + criticisms, but merely a few general remarks, pointing out the weakest + parts. + </p> + <p> + If you are IN EVEN SO SLIGHT A DEGREE staggered (which I hardly expect) on + the immutability of species, then I am convinced with further reflection + you will become more and more staggered, for this has been the process + through which my mind has gone. My dear Henslow, + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately and gratefully, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. (The present Sir John Lubbock.) + Ilkley, Yorkshire, Saturday [November 12th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... Thank you much for asking me to Brighton. I hope much that you will + enjoy your holiday. I have told Murray to send a copy for you to Mansion + House Street, and I am surprised that you have not received it. There are + so many valid and weighty arguments against my notions, that you, or any + one, if you wish on the other side, will easily persuade yourself that I + am wholly in error, and no doubt I am in part in error, perhaps wholly so, + though I cannot see the blindness of my ways. I dare say when thunder and + lightning were first proved to be due to secondary causes, some regretted + to give up the idea that each flash was caused by the direct hand of God. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, I am feeling very unwell to-day, so no more. + </p> + <p> + Yours very truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. Ilkley, Yorkshire, Tuesday + [November 15th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lubbock, + </p> + <p> + I beg pardon for troubling you again. I do not know how I blundered in + expressing myself in making you believe that we accepted your kind + invitation to Brighton. I meant merely to thank you sincerely for wishing + to see such a worn-out old dog as myself. I hardly know when we leave this + place,—not under a fortnight, and then we shall wish to rest under + our own roof-tree. + </p> + <p> + I do not think I hardly ever admired a book more than Paley's 'Natural + Theology.' I could almost formerly have said it by heart. + </p> + <p> + I am glad you have got my book, but I fear that you value it far too + highly. I should be grateful for any criticisms. I care not for Reviews; + but for the opinion of men like you and Hooker and Huxley and Lyell, etc. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, with our joint thanks to Mrs. Lubbock and yourself. Adios. + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO L. JENYNS. (Now Rev. L. Blomefield.) Ilkley, + Yorkshire, November 13th, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Jenyns, + </p> + <p> + I must thank you for your very kind note forwarded to me from Down. I have + been much out of health this summer, and have been hydropathising here for + the last six weeks with very little good as yet. I shall stay here for + another fortnight at least. Please remember that my book is only an + abstract, and very much condensed, and, to be at all intelligible, must be + carefully read. I shall be very grateful for any criticisms. But I know + perfectly well that you will not at all agree with the lengths which I go. + It took long years to convert me. I may, of course, be egregiously wrong; + but I cannot persuade myself that a theory which explains (as I think it + certainly does) several large classes of facts, can be wholly wrong; + notwithstanding the several difficulties which have to be surmounted + somehow, and which stagger me even to this day. + </p> + <p> + I wish that my health had allowed me to publish in extenso; if ever I get + strong enough I will do so, as the greater part is written out, and of + which MS. the present volume is an abstract. + </p> + <p> + I fear this note will be almost illegible; but I am poorly, and can hardly + sit up. Farewell; with thanks for your kind note and pleasant remembrance + of good old days. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Ilkley, November 13th, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have told Murray to send you by post (if possible) a copy of my book, + and I hope that you will receive it at nearly the same time with this + note. (N.B. I have got a bad finger, which makes me write extra badly.) If + you are so inclined, I should very much like to hear your general + impression of the book, as you have thought so profoundly on the subject, + and in so nearly the same channel with myself. I hope there will be some + little new to you, but I fear not much. Remember it is only an abstract, + and very much condensed. God knows what the public will think. No one has + read it, except Lyell, with whom I have had much correspondence. Hooker + thinks him a complete convert, but he does not seem so in his letters to + me; but is evidently deeply interested in the subject. I do not think your + share in the theory will be overlooked by the real judges, as Hooker, + Lyell, Asa Gray, etc. I have heard from Mr. Slater that your paper on the + Malay Archipelago has been read at the Linnean Society, and that he was + EXTREMELY much interested by it. + </p> + <p> + I have not seen one naturalist for six or nine months, owing to the state + of my health, and therefore I really have no news to tell you. I am + writing this at Ilkley Wells, where I have been with my family for the + last six weeks, and shall stay for some few weeks longer. As yet I have + profited very little. God knows when I shall have strength for my bigger + book. + </p> + <p> + I sincerely hope that you keep your health; I suppose that you will be + thinking of returning (Mr. Wallace was in the Malay Archipelago.) soon + with your magnificent collections, and still grander mental materials. You + will be puzzled how to publish. The Royal Society fund will be worth your + consideration. With every good wish, pray believe me, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S. I think that I told you before that Hooker is a complete convert. If + I can convert Huxley I shall be content. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.D. FOX. Ilkley, Yorkshire, Wednesday + [November 16th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... I like the place very much, and the children have enjoyed it much, and + it has done my wife good. It did H. good at first, but she has gone back + again. I have had a series of calamities; first a sprained ankle, and then + a badly swollen whole leg and face, much rash, and a frightful succession + of boils—four or five at once. I have felt quite ill, and have + little faith in this "unique crisis," as the doctor calls it, doing me + much good...You will probably have received, or will very soon receive, my + weariful book on species, I naturally believe it mainly includes the + truth, but you will not at all agree with me. Dr. Hooker, whom I consider + one of the best judges in Europe, is a complete convert, and he thinks + Lyell is likewise; certainly, judging from Lyell's letters to me on the + subject, he is deeply staggered. Farewell. If the spirit moves you, let me + have a line... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.B. CARPENTER. Ilkley, Yorkshire, November + 18th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Carpenter, + </p> + <p> + I must thank you for your letter on my own account, and if I know myself, + still more warmly for the subject's sake. As you seem to have understood + my last chapter without reading the previous chapters, you must have + maturely and most profoundly self-thought out the subject; for I have + found the most extraordinary difficulty in making even able men understand + at what I was driving. There will be strong opposition to my views. If I + am in the main right (of course including partial errors unseen by me), + the admission in my views will depend far more on men, like yourself, with + well-established reputations, than on my own writings. Therefore, on the + supposition that when you have read my volume you think the view in the + main true, I thank and honour you for being willing to run the chance of + unpopularity by advocating the view. I know not in the least whether any + one will review me in any of the Reviews. I do not see how an author could + enquire or interfere; but if you are willing to review me anywhere, I am + sure from the admiration which I have long felt and expressed for your + 'Comparative Physiology,' that your review will be excellently done, and + will do good service in the cause for which I think I am not selfishly + deeply interested. I am feeling very unwell to-day, and this note is + badly, perhaps hardly intelligibly, expressed; but you must excuse me, for + I could not let a post pass, without thanking you for your note. You will + have a tough job even to shake in the slightest degree Sir H. Holland. I + do not think (privately I say it) that the great man has knowledge enough + to enter on the subject. Pray believe me with sincerity, Yours truly + obliged, + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—As you are not a practical geologist, let me add that Lyell + thinks the chapter on the Imperfection of the Geological Record NOT + exaggerated. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.B. CARPENTER. Ilkley, Yorkshire, November + 19th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Carpenter, + </p> + <p> + I beg pardon for troubling you again. If, after reading my book, you are + able to come to a conclusion in any degree definite, will you think me + very unreasonable in asking you to let me hear from you. I do not ask for + a long discussion, but merely for a brief idea of your general impression. + From your widely extended knowledge, habit of investigating the truth, and + abilities, I should value your opinion in the very highest rank. Though I, + of course, believe in the truth of my own doctrine, I suspect that no + belief is vivid until shared by others. As yet I know only one believer, + but I look at him as of the greatest authority, viz., Hooker. When I think + of the many cases of men who have studied one subject for years, and have + persuaded themselves of the truth of the foolishest doctrines, I feel + sometimes a little frightened, whether I may not be one of these + mon-maniacs. + </p> + <p> + Again pray excuse this, I fear, unreasonable request. A short note would + suffice, and I could bear a hostile verdict, and shall have to bear many a + one. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Ilkley, Yorkshire, Sunday + [November 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have just read a review on my book in the "Athenaeum" (November 19, + 1859.), and it excites my curiosity much who is the author. If you should + hear who writes in the "Athenaeum" I wish you would tell me. It seems to + me well done, but the reviewer gives no new objections, and, being + hostile, passes over every single argument in favour of the doctrine,... I + fear from the tone of the review, that I have written in a conceited and + cocksure style (The Reviewer speaks of the author's "evident + self-satisfaction," and of his disposing of all difficulties "more or less + confidently."), which shames me a little. There is another review of which + I should like to know the author, viz., of H.C. Watson in the "Gardener's + Chronicle". Some of the remarks are like yours, and he does deserve + punishment; but surely the review is too severe. Don't you think so? + </p> + <p> + I hope you got the three copies for Foreign Botanists in time for your + parcel, and your own copy. I have heard from Carpenter, who, I think, is + likely to be a convert. Also from Quatrefages, who is inclined to go a + long way with us. He says that he exhibited in his lecture a diagram + closely like mine! + </p> + <p> + I shall stay here one fortnight more, and then go to Down, staying on the + road at Shrewsbury a week. I have been very unfortunate: out of seven + weeks I have been confined for five to the house. This has been bad for + me, as I have not been able to help thinking to a foolish extent about my + book. If some four or five GOOD men came round nearly to our view, I shall + not fear ultimate success. I long to learn what Huxley thinks. Is your + introduction (Introduction to the 'Flora of Australia.') published? I + suppose that you will sell it separately. Please answer this, for I want + an extra copy to send away to Wallace. I am very bothersome, farewell. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I was very glad to see the Royal Medal for Mr. Bentham. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, December 21st, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Pray give my thanks to Mrs. Hooker for her extremely kind note, which has + pleased me much. We are very sorry she cannot come here, but shall be + delighted to see you and W. (our boys will be at home) here in the 2nd + week of January, or any other time. I shall much enjoy discussing any + points in my book with you... + </p> + <p> + I hate to hear you abuse your own work. I, on the contrary, so sincerely + value all that you have written. It is an old and firm conviction of mine, + that the Naturalists who accumulate facts and make many partial + generalisations are the REAL benefactors of science. Those who merely + accumulate facts I cannot very much respect. + </p> + <p> + I had hoped to have come up for the Club to-morrow, but very much doubt + whether I shall be able. Ilkley seems to have done me no essential good. I + attended the Bench on Monday, and was detained in adjudicating some + troublesome cases 1 1/2 hours longer than usual, and came home utterly + knocked up, and cannot rally. I am not worth an old button... Many thanks + for your pleasant note. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I feel confident that for the future progress of the subject of + the origin and manner of formation of species, the assent and arguments + and facts of working naturalists, like yourself, are far more important + than my own book; so for God's sake do not abuse your Introduction. + </p> + <p> + H.C. WATSON TO CHARLES DARWIN. Thames Ditton, November 21st [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Once commenced to read the 'Origin,' I could not rest till I had galloped + through the whole. I shall now begin to re-read it more deliberately. + Meantime I am tempted to write you the first impressions, not doubting + that they will, in the main, be the permanent impressions:— + </p> + <p> + 1st. Your leading idea will assuredly become recognised as an established + truth in science, i.e. "Natural Selection." It has the characteristics of + all great natural truths, clarifying what was obscure, simplifying what + was intricate, adding greatly to previous knowledge. You are the greatest + revolutionist in natural history of this century, if not of all centuries. + </p> + <p> + 2nd. You will perhaps need, in some degree, to limit or modify, possibly + in some degree also to extend, your present applications of the principle + of natural selection. Without going to matters of more detail, it strikes + me that there is one considerable primary inconsistency, by one failure in + the analogy between varieties and species; another by a sort of barrier + assumed for nature on insufficient grounds and arising from "divergence." + These may, however, be faults in my own mind, attributable to yet + incomplete perception of your views. And I had better not trouble you + about them before again reading the volume. + </p> + <p> + 3rd. Now these novel views are brought fairly before the scientific + public, it seems truly remarkable how so many of them could have failed to + see their right road sooner. How could Sir C. Lyell, for instance, for + thirty years read, write, and think, on the subject of species AND THEIR + SUCCESSION, and yet constantly look down the wrong road! + </p> + <p> + A quarter of a century ago, you and I must have been in something like the + same state of mind on the main question, but you were able to see and work + out the quo modo of the succession, the all-important thing, while I + failed to grasp it. I send by this post a little controversial pamphlet of + old date—Combe and Scott. If you will take the trouble to glance at + the passages scored on the margin, you will see that, a quarter of a + century ago, I was also one of the few who then doubted the absolute + distinctness of species, and special creations of them. Yet I, like the + rest, failed to detect the quo modo which was reserved for your + penetration to DISCOVER, and your discernment to APPLY. + </p> + <p> + You answered my query about the hiatus between Satyrus and Homo as was + expected. The obvious explanation really never occurred to me till some + months after I had read the papers in the 'Linnean Proceedings.' The first + species of Fere-homo ("Almost-man.") would soon make direct and + exterminating war upon his Infra-homo cousins. The gap would thus be made, + and then go on increasing, into the present enormous and still widening + hiatus. But how greatly this, with your chronology of animal life, will + shock the ideas of many men! + </p> + <p> + Very sincerely, HEWETT C. WATSON. + </p> + <p> + J.D. HOOKER TO CHARLES DARWIN. Athenaeum, Monday [November 21st, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I am a sinner not to have written you ere this, if only to thank you for + your glorious book—what a mass of close reasoning on curious facts + and fresh phenomena—it is capitally written, and will be very + successful. I say this on the strength of two or three plunges into as + many chapters, for I have not yet attempted to read it. Lyell, with whom + we are staying, is perfectly enchanted, and is absolutely gloating over + it. I must accept your compliment to me, and acknowledgment of supposed + assistance from me, as the warm tribute of affection from an honest + (though deluded) man, and furthermore accept it as very pleasing to my + vanity; but, my dear fellow, neither my name nor my judgment nor my + assistance deserved any such compliments, and if I am dishonest enough to + be pleased with what I don't deserve, it must just pass. How different the + BOOK reads from the MS. I see I shall have much to talk over with you. + Those lazy printers have not finished my luckless Essay; which, beside + your book, will look like a ragged handkerchief beside a Royal Standard... + </p> + <p> + All well, ever yours affectionately, JOS. D. HOOKER. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Ilkley, Yorkshire [November + 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I cannot help it, I must thank you for your affectionate and most kind + note. My head will be turned. By Jove, I must try and get a bit modest. I + was a little chagrined by the review. (This refers to the review in the + "Athenaeum", November 19, 1859, where the reviewer, after touching on the + theological aspects of the book, leaves the author to "the mercies of the + Divinity Hall, the College, the Lecture Room, and the Museum.") I hope it + was NOT —. As advocate, he might think himself justified in giving + the argument only on one side. But the manner in which he drags in + immortality, and sets the priests at me, and leaves me to their mercies, + is base. He would, on no account, burn me, but he will get the wood ready, + and tell the black beasts how to catch me... It would be unspeakably grand + if Huxley were to lecture on the subject, but I can see this is a mere + chance; Faraday might think it too unorthodox. + </p> + <p> + ... I had a letter from [Huxley] with such tremendous praise of my book, + that modesty (as I am trying to cultivate that difficult herb) prevents me + sending it to you, which I should have liked to have done, as he is very + modest about himself. + </p> + <p> + You have cockered me up to that extent, that I now feel I can face a score + of savage reviewers. I suppose you are still with the Lyells. Give my + kindest remembrance to them. I triumph to hear that he continues to + approve. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, your would-be modest friend, C.D. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Ilkley Wells, Yorkshire, November 23 + [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + You seemed to have worked admirably on the species question; there could + not have been a better plan than reading up on the opposite side. I + rejoice profoundly that you intend admitting the doctrine of modification + in your new edition (It appears from Sir Charles Lyell's published letters + that he intended to admit the doctrine of evolution in a new edition of + the 'Manual,' but this was not published till 1865. He was, however, at + work on the 'Antiquity of Man' in 1860, and had already determined to + discuss the 'Origin' at the end of the book.); nothing, I am convinced, + could be more important for its success. I honour you most sincerely. To + have maintained in the position of a master, one side of a question for + thirty years, and then deliberately give it up, is a fact to which I much + doubt whether the records of science offer a parallel. For myself, also, I + rejoice profoundly; for, thinking of so many cases of men pursuing an + illusion for years, often and often a cold shudder has run through me, and + I have asked myself whether I may not have devoted my life to a phantasy. + Now I look at it as morally impossible that investigators of truth, like + you and Hooker, can be wholly wrong, and therefore I rest in peace. Thank + you for criticisms, which, if there be a second edition, I will attend to. + I have been thinking that if I am much execrated as an atheist, etc., + whether the admission of the doctrine of natural selection could injure + your works; but I hope and think not, for as far as I can remember, the + virulence of bigotry is expended on the first offender, and those who + adopt his views are only pitied as deluded, by the wise and cheerful + bigots. + </p> + <p> + I cannot help thinking that you overrate the importance of the multiple + origin of dogs. The only difference is, that in the case of single + origins, all difference of the races has originated since man domesticated + the species. In the case of multiple origins part of the difference was + produced under natural conditions. I should INFINITELY prefer the theory + of single origin in all cases, if facts would permit its reception. But + there seems to me some a priori improbability (seeing how fond savages are + of taming animals), that throughout all times, and throughout all the + world, that man should have domesticated one single species alone, of the + widely distributed genus Canis. Besides this, the close resemblance of at + least three kinds of American domestic dogs to wild species still + inhabiting the countries where they are now domesticated, seem to almost + compel admission that more than one wild Canis has been domesticated by + man. + </p> + <p> + I thank you cordially for all the generous zeal and interest you have + shown about my book, and I remain, my dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Your affectionate friend and disciple, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + Sir J. Herschel, to whom I sent a copy, is going to read my book. He says + he leans to the side opposed to me. If you should meet him after he has + read me, pray find out what he thinks, for, of course, he will not write; + and I should excessively like to hear whether I produce any effect on such + a mind. + </p> + <p> + T.H. HUXLEY TO CHARLES DARWIN. Jermyn Street W., November 23rd, 1859. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I finished your book yesterday, a lucky examination having furnished me + with a few hours of continuous leisure. + </p> + <p> + Since I read Von Baer's (Karl Ernst von Baer, born 1792, died at Dorpat + 1876—one of the most distinguished biologists of the century. He + practically founded the modern science of embryology.) essays, nine years + ago, no work on Natural History Science I have met with has made so great + an impression upon me, and I do most heartily thank you for the great + store of new views you have given me. Nothing, I think, can be better than + the tone of the book, it impresses those who know nothing about the + subject. As for your doctrine, I am prepared to go to the stake, if + requisite, in support of Chapter IX., and most parts of Chapters X., XI., + XII., and Chapter XIII. contains much that is most admirable, but on one + or two points I enter a caveat until I can see further into all sides of + the question. + </p> + <p> + As to the first four chapters, I agree thoroughly and fully with all the + principles laid down in them. I think you have demonstrated a true cause + for the production of species, and have thrown the onus probandi that + species did not arise in the way you suppose, on your adversaries. + </p> + <p> + But I feel that I have not yet by any means fully realized the bearings of + those most remarkable and original Chapters III., IV. and V., and I will + write no more about them just now. + </p> + <p> + The only objections that have occurred to me are, 1st that you have loaded + yourself with an unnecessary difficulty in adopting Natura non facit + saltum so unreservedly... And 2nd, it is not clear to me why, if continual + physical conditions are of so little moment as you suppose, variation + should occur at all. + </p> + <p> + However, I must read the book two or three times more before I presume to + begin picking holes. + </p> + <p> + I trust you will not allow yourself to be in any way disgusted or annoyed + by the considerable abuse and misrepresentation which, unless I greatly + mistake, is in store for you. Depend upon it you have earned the lasting + gratitude of all thoughtful men. And as to the curs which will bark and + yelp, you must recollect that some of your friends, at any rate, are + endowed with an amount of combativeness which (though you have often and + justly rebuked it) may stand you in good stead. + </p> + <p> + I am sharpening up my claws and beak in readiness. + </p> + <p> + Looking back over my letter, it really expresses so feebly all I think + about you and your noble book that I am half ashamed of it; but you will + understand that, like the parrot in the story, "I think the more." + </p> + <p> + Ever yours faithfully, T.H. HUXLEY. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Ilkley, November 25th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Your letter has been forwarded to me from Down. Like a good Catholic who + has received extreme unction, I can now sing "nunc dimittis." I should + have been more than contented with one quarter of what you have said. + Exactly fifteen months ago, when I put pen to paper for this volume, I had + awful misgivings; and thought perhaps I had deluded myself, like so many + have done, and I then fixed in my mind three judges, on whose decision I + determined mentally to abide. The judges were Lyell, Hooker, and yourself. + It was this which made me so excessively anxious for your verdict. I am + now contented, and can sing my nunc dimittis. What a joke it would be if I + pat you on the back when you attack some immovable creationist! You have + most cleverly hit on one point, which has greatly troubled me; if, as I + must think, external conditions produce little DIRECT effect, what the + devil determines each particular variation? What makes a tuft of feathers + come on a cock's head, or moss on a moss-rose? I shall much like to talk + over this with you... + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, I thank you cordially for your letter. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Hereafter I shall be particularly curious to hear what you + think of my explanation of Embryological similarity. On classification I + fear we shall split. Did you perceive the argumentum ad hominem Huxley + about kangaroo and bear? + </p> + <p> + ERASMUS DARWIN (His brother.) TO CHARLES DARWIN. November 23rd [1859]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Charles, + </p> + <p> + I am so much weaker in the head, that I hardly know if I can write, but at + all events I will jot down a few things that the Dr. (Dr., afterwards Sir + Henry Holland.) has said. He has not read much above half, so as he says + he can give no definite conclusion, and it is my private belief he wishes + to remain in that state... He is evidently in a dreadful state of + indecision, and keeps stating that he is not tied down to either view, and + that he has always left an escape by the way he has spoken of varieties. I + happened to speak of the eye before he had read that part, and it took + away his breath—utterly impossible—structure, function, etc., + etc., etc., but when he had read it he hummed and hawed, and perhaps it + was partly conceivable, and then he fell back on the bones of the ear, + which were beyond all probability or conceivability. He mentioned a slight + blot, which I also observed, that in speaking of the slave-ants carrying + one another, you change the species without giving notice first, and it + makes one turn back... + </p> + <p> + ... For myself I really think it is the most interesting book I ever read, + and can only compare it to the first knowledge of chemistry, getting into + a new world or rather behind the scenes. To me the geographical + distribution, I mean the relation of islands to continents, is the most + convincing of the proofs, and the relation of the oldest forms to the + existing species. I dare say I don't feel enough the absence of varieties, + but then I don't in the least know if everything now living were + fossilized whether the paleontologists could distinguish them. In fact the + a priori reasoning is so entirely satisfactory to me that if the facts + won't fit in, why so much the worse for the facts is my feeling. My ague + has left me in such a state of torpidity that I wish I had gone through + the process of natural selection. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, E.A.D. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Ilkley, November [24th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Again I have to thank you for a most valuable lot of criticisms in a + letter dated 22nd. + </p> + <p> + This morning I heard also from Murray that he sold the whole edition + (First edition, 1250 copies.) the first day to the trade. He wants a new + edition instantly, and this utterly confounds me. Now, under water-cure, + with all nervous power directed to the skin, I cannot possibly do + head-work, and I must make only actually necessary corrections. But I + will, as far as I can without my manuscript, take advantage of your + suggestions: I must not attempt much. Will you send me one line to say + whether I must strike out about the secondary whale (The passage was + omitted in the second edition.), it goes to my heart. About the + rattle-snake, look to my Journal, under Trigonocephalus, and you will see + the probable origin of the rattle, and generally in transitions it is the + premier pas qui coute. + </p> + <p> + Madame Belloc wants to translate my book into French; I have offered to + look over proofs for SCIENTIFIC errors. Did you ever hear of her? I + believe Murray has agreed at my urgent advice, but I fear I have been rash + and premature. Quatrefages has written to me, saying he agrees largely + with my views. He is an excellent naturalist. I am pressed for time. Will + you give us one line about the whales? Again I thank you for neve-tiring + advice and assistance; I do in truth reverence your unselfish and pure + love of truth. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [With regard to a French translation, he wrote to Mr. Murray in November + 1859: "I am EXTREMELY anxious, for the subject's sake (and God knows not + for mere fame), to have my book translated; and indirectly its being known + abroad will do good to the English sale. If it depended on me, I should + agree without payment, and instantly send a copy, and only beg that she + [Mme. Belloc] would get some scientific man to look over the + translation... You might say that, though I am a very poor French scholar, + I could detect any scientific mistake, and would read over the French + proofs." + </p> + <p> + The proposed translation was not made, and a second plan fell through in + the following year. He wrote to M. de Quatrefages: "The gentleman who + wished to translate my 'Origin of Species' has failed in getting a + publisher. Balliere, Masson, and Hachette all rejected it with contempt. + It was foolish and presumptuous in me, hoping to appear in a French dress; + but the idea would not have entered my head had it not been suggested to + me. It is a great loss. I must console myself with the German edition + which Prof. Bronn is bringing out." (See letters to Bronn, page 70.) + </p> + <p> + A sentence in another letter to M. de Quatrefages shows how anxious he was + to convert one of the greatest of contemporary Zoologists: "How I should + like to know whether Milne Edwards had read the copy which I sent him, and + whether he thinks I have made a pretty good case on our side of the + question. There is no naturalist in the world for whose opinion I have so + profound a respect. Of course I am not so silly as to expect to change his + opinion."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Ilkley, [November 26th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have received your letter of the 24th. It is no use trying to thank you; + your kindness is beyond thanks. I will certainly leave out the whale and + bear... + </p> + <p> + The edition was 1250 copies. When I was in spirits, I sometimes fancied + that my book would be successful, but I never even built a castle in the + air of such success as it has met with; I do not mean the sale, but the + impression it has made on you (whom I have always looked at as chief + judge) and Hooker and Huxley. The whole has infinitely exceeded my wildest + hopes. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, I am tired, for I have been going over the sheets. + </p> + <p> + My kind friend, farewell, yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Ilkley, Yorkshire, December 2nd + [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Every note which you have sent me has interested me much. Pray thank Lady + Lyell for her remark. In the chapters she refers to, I was unable to + modify the passage in accordance with your suggestion; but in the final + chapter I have modified three or four. Kingsley, in a note (The letter is + given below) to me, had a capital paragraph on such notions as mine being + NOT opposed to a high conception of the Deity. I have inserted it as an + extract from a letter to me from a celebrated author and divine. I have + put in about nascent organs. I had the greatest difficulty in partially + making out Sedgwick's letter, and I dare say I did greatly underrate its + clearness. Do what I could, I fear I shall be greatly abused. In answer to + Sedgwick's remark that my book would be "mischievous," I asked him whether + truth can be known except by being victorious over all attacks. But it is + no use. H.C. Watson tells me that one zoologist says he will read my book, + "but I will never believe it." What a spirit to read any book in! Crawford + writes to me that his notice (John Crawford, orientalist, ethnologist, + etc., 1783-1868. The review appeared in the "Examiner", and, though + hostile, is free from bigotry, as the following citation will show: "We + cannot help saying that piety must be fastidious indeed that objects to a + theory the tendency of which is to show that all organic beings, man + included, are in a perpetual progress of amelioration, and that is + expounded in the reverential language which we have quoted.") will be + hostile, but that "he will not calumniate the author." He says he has read + my book, "at least such parts as he could understand." He sent me some + notes and suggestions (quite unimportant), and they show me that I have + unavoidably done harm to the subject, by publishing an abstract. He is a + real Pallasian; nearly all our domestic races descended from a multitude + of wild species now commingled. I expected Murchison to be outrageous. How + little he could ever have grappled with the subject of denudation! How + singular so great a geologist should have so unphilosophical a mind! I + have had several notes from —, very civil and less decided. Says he + shall not pronounce against me without much reflection, PERHAPS WILL SAY + NOTHING on the subject. X. says — will go to that part of hell, + which Dante tells us is appointed for those who are neither on God's side + nor on that of the devil. + </p> + <p> + I fully believe that I owe the comfort of the next few years of my life to + your generous support, and that of a very few others. I do not think I am + brave enough to have stood being odious without support; now I feel as + bold as a lion. But there is one thing I can see I must learn, viz., to + think less of myself and my book. Farewell, with cordial thanks. + </p> + <p> + Yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I return home on the 7th, and shall sleep at Erasmus's. I will call on you + about ten o'clock, on Thursday, the 8th, and sit with you, as I have so + often sat, during your breakfast. + </p> + <p> + I wish there was any chance of Prestwich being shaken; but I fear he is + too much of a catastrophist. + </p> + <p> + [In December there appeared in 'Macmillan's Magazine' an article, "Time + and Life," by Professor Huxley. It is mainly occupied by an analysis of + the argument of the 'Origin,' but it also gives the substance of a lecture + delivered at the Royal Institution before that book was published. + Professor Huxley spoke strongly in favour of evolution in his Lecture, and + explains that in so doing he was to a great extent resting on a knowledge + of "the general tenor of the researches in which Mr. Darwin had been so + long engaged," and was supported in so doing by his perfect confidence in + his knowledge, perseverance, and "high-minded love of truth." My father + was evidently deeply pleased by Mr. Huxley's words, and wrote: + </p> + <p> + "I must thank you for your extremely kind notice of my book in + 'Macmillan.' No one could receive a more delightful and honourable + compliment. I had not heard of your Lecture, owing to my retired life. You + attribute much too much to me from our mutual friendship. You have + explained my leading idea with admirable clearness. What a gift you have + of writing (or more properly) thinking clearly."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.B. CARPENTER. Ilkley, Yorkshire, December + 3rd [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Carpenter, + </p> + <p> + I am perfectly delighted at your letter. It is a great thing to have got a + great physiologist on our side. I say "our" for we are now a good and + compact body of really good men, and mostly not old men. In the long run + we shall conquer. I do not like being abused, but I feel that I can now + bear it; and, as I told Lyell, I am well convinced that it is the first + offender who reaps the rich harvest of abuse. You have done an essential + kindness in checking the odium theologicum in the E.R. (This must refer to + Carpenter's critique which would now have been ready to appear in the + January number of the "Edinburgh Review", 1860, and in which the odium + theologicum is referred to.) It much pains all one's female relations and + injures the cause. + </p> + <p> + I look at it as immaterial whether we go quite the same lengths; and I + suspect, judging from myself, that you will go further, by thinking of a + population of forms like Ornithorhyncus, and by thinking of the common + homological and embryological structure of the several vertebrate orders. + But this is immaterial. I quite agree that the principle is everything. In + my fuller MS. I have discussed a good many instincts; but there will + surely be more unfilled gaps here than with corporeal structure, for we + have no fossil instincts, and know scarcely any except of European + animals. When I reflect how very slowly I came round myself, I am in truth + astonished at the candour shown by Lyell, Hooker, Huxley, and yourself. In + my opinion it is grand. I thank you cordially for taking the trouble of + writing a review for the 'National.' God knows I shall have few enough in + any degree favourable. (See a letter to Dr. Carpenter below.) + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Saturday [December 5th, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have had a letter from Carpenter this morning. He reviews me in the + 'National.' He is a convert, but does not go quite so far as I, but quite + far enough, for he admits that all birds are from one progenitor, and + probably all fishes and reptiles from another parent. But the last + mouthful chokes him. He can hardly admit all vertebrates from one parent. + He will surely come to this from Homology and Embryology. I look at it as + grand having brought round a great physiologist, for great I think he + certainly is in that line. How curious I shall be to know what line Owen + will take; dead against us, I fear; but he wrote me a most liberal note on + the reception of my book, and said he was quite prepared to consider + fairly and without prejudice my line of argument. + </p> + <p> + J.D. HOOKER TO CHARLES DARWIN. Kew, Monday. + </p> + <p> + Dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + You have, I know, been drenched with letters since the publication of your + book, and I have hence forborne to add my mite. I hope now that you are + well through Edition II., and I have heard that you were flourishing in + London. I have not yet got half-through the book, not from want of will, + but of time—for it is the very hardest book to read, to full + profits, that I ever tried—it is so cram-full of matter and + reasoning. I am all the more glad that you have published in this form, + for the three volumes, unprefaced by this, would have choked any + Naturalist of the nineteenth century, and certainly have softened my brain + in the operation of assimilating their contents. I am perfectly tired of + marvelling at the wonderful amount of facts you have brought to bear, and + your skill in marshalling them and throwing them on the enemy; it is also + extremely clear as far as I have gone, but very hard to fully appreciate. + Somehow it reads very different from the MS., and I often fancy I must + have been very stupid not to have more fully followed it in MS. Lyell told + me of his criticisms. I did not appreciate them all, and there are many + little matters I hope one day to talk over with you. I saw a highly + flattering notice in the 'English Churchman,' short and not at all + entering into discussion, but praising you and your book, and talking + patronizingly of the doctrine!... Bentham and Henslow will still shake + their heads I fancy... + </p> + <p> + Ever yours affectionately, JOS. D. HOOKER. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, Saturday [December 12th, + 1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... I had very long interviews with —, which perhaps you would like + to hear about... I infer from several expressions that, at bottom, he goes + an immense way with us... + </p> + <p> + He said to the effect that my explanation was the best ever published of + the manner of formation of species. I said I was very glad to hear it. He + took me up short: "You must not at all suppose that I agree with you in + all respects." I said I thought it no more likely that I should be right + in nearly all points, than that I should toss up a penny and get heads + twenty times running. I asked him what he thought the weakest part. He + said he had no particular objection to any part. He added:— + </p> + <p> + "If I must criticise, I should say, 'we do not want to know what Darwin + believes and is convinced of, but what he can prove.'" I agreed most fully + and truly that I have probably greatly sinned in this line, and defended + my general line of argument of inventing a theory and seeing how many + classes of facts the theory would explain. I added that I would endeavour + to modify the "believes" and "convinceds." He took me up short: "You will + then spoil your book, the charm of (!) it is that it is Darwin himself." + He added another objection, that the book was too teres atque rotundus—that + it explained everything, and that it was improbable in the highest degree + that I should succeed in this. I quite agree with this rather queer + objection, and it comes to this that my book must be very bad or very + good... + </p> + <p> + I have heard, by roundabout channel, that Herschel says my book "is the + law of higgledy-piggledy." What this exactly means I do not know, but it + is evidently very contemptuous. If true this is a great blow and + discouragement. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. December 14th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... The latter part of my stay at Ilkley did me much good, but I suppose I + never shall be strong, for the work I have had since I came back has + knocked me up a little more than once. I have been busy in getting a + reprint (with a very few corrections) through the press. + </p> + <p> + My book has been as yet VERY MUCH more successful than I ever dreamed of: + Murray is now printing 3000 copies. Have you finished it? If so, pray tell + me whether you are with me on the GENERAL issue, or against me. If you are + against me, I know well how honourable, fair, and candid an opponent I + shall have, and which is a good deal more than I can say of all my + opponents... + </p> + <p> + Pray tell me what you have been doing. Have you had time for any Natural + History?... + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I have got—I wish and hope I might say that WE have got—a + fair number of excellent men on our side of the question on the mutability + of species. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, December 14th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Your approval of my book, for many reasons, gives me intense satisfaction; + but I must make some allowance for your kindness and sympathy. Any one + with ordinary faculties, if he had PATIENCE enough and plenty of time, + could have written my book. You do not know how I admire your and Lyell's + generous and unselfish sympathy, I do not believe either of you would have + cared so much about your own work. My book, as yet, has been far more + successful than I ever even formerly ventured in the wildest day-dreams to + anticipate. We shall soon be a good body of working men, and shall have, I + am convinced, all young and rising naturalists on our side. I shall be + intensely interested to hear whether my book produces any effect on A. + Gray; from what I heard at Lyell's, I fancy your correspondence has + brought him some way already. I fear that there is no chance of Bentham + being staggered. Will he read my book? Has he a copy? I would send him one + of the reprints if he has not. Old J.E. Gray (John Edward Gray + (1800-1875), was the son of S.F. Gray, author of the 'Supplement to the + Pharmacopoeia.' In 1821 he published in his father's name 'The Natural + Arrangement of British Plants,' one of the earliest works in English on + the natural method. In 1824 he became connected with the Natural History + Department of the British Museum, and was appointed Keeper of the + Zoological collections in 1840. He was the author of 'Illustrations of + Indian Zoology,' 'The Knowsley Menagerie,' etc., and of innumerable + descriptive Zoological papers.), at the British Museum, attacked me in + fine style: "You have just reproduced Lamarck's doctrine and nothing else, + and here Lyell and others have been attacking him for twenty years, and + because YOU (with a sneer and laugh) say the very same thing, they are all + coming round; it is the most ridiculous inconsistency, etc., etc." + </p> + <p> + You must be very glad to be settled in your house, and I hope all the + improvements satisfy you. As far as my experience goes, improvements are + never perfection. I am very sorry to hear that you are still so very busy, + and have so much work. And now for the main purport of my note, which is + to ask and beg you and Mrs. Hooker (whom it is really an age since I have + seen), and all your children, if you like, to come and spend a week here. + It would be a great pleasure to me and to my wife... As far as we can see, + we shall be at home all the winter; and all times probably would be + equally convenient; but if you can, do not put it off very late, as it may + slip through. Think of this and persuade Mrs. Hooker, and be a good man + and come. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my kind and dear friend, Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I shall be very curious to hear what you think of my discussion + on Classification in Chapter XIII.; I believe Huxley demurs to the whole, + and says he has nailed his colours to the mast, and I would sooner die + than give up; so that we are in as fine a frame of mind to discuss the + point as any two religionists. + </p> + <p> + Embryology is my pet bit in my book, and, confound my friends, not one has + noticed this to me. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, December 21st [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your most kind, long, and valuable letter. I will + write again in a few days, for I am at present unwell and much pressed + with business: to-day's note is merely personal. I should, for several + reasons, be very glad of an American Edition. I have made up my mind to be + well abused; but I think it of importance that my notions should be read + by intelligent men, accustomed to scientific argument, though NOT + naturalists. It may seem absurd, but I think such men will drag after them + those naturalists who have too firmly fixed in their heads that a species + is an entity. The first edition of 1250 copies was sold on the first day, + and now my publisher is printing off, as RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE, 3000 more + copies. I mention this solely because it renders probable a remunerative + sale in America. I should be infinitely obliged if you could aid an + American reprint; and could make, for my sake and the publisher's, any + arrangement for any profit. The new edition is only a reprint, yet I have + made a FEW important corrections. I will have the clean sheets sent over + in a few days of as many sheets as are printed off, and the remainder + afterwards, and you can do anything you like,—if nothing, there is + no harm done. I should be glad for the new edition to be reprinted and not + the old.—In great haste, and with hearty thanks, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I will write soon again. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, 22nd [December, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, Thanks about "Bears" (See 'Origin,' edition i., page 184.), + a word of il-omen to me. + </p> + <p> + I am too unwell to leave home, so shall not see you. + </p> + <p> + I am very glad of your remarks on Hooker. (Sir C. Lyell wrote to Sir J.D. + Hooker, December 19, 1859 ('Life,' ii. page 327): "I have just finished + the reading of your splendid Essay [the 'Flora of Australia'] on the + origin of species, as illustrated by your wide botanical experience, and + think it goes very far to raise the variety-making hypothesis to the rank + of a theory, as accounting for the manner in which new species enter the + world.") I have not yet got the essay. The parts which I read in sheets + seemed to me grand, especially the generalization about the Australian + flora itself. How superior to Robert Brown's celebrated essay! I have not + seen Naudin's paper ('Revue Horticole,' 1852. See historical Sketch in the + later editions of the 'Origin of Species.'), and shall not be able till I + hunt the libraries. I am very anxious to see it. Decaisne seems to think + he gives my whole theory. I do not know when I shall have time and + strength to grapple with Hooker... + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I have heard from Sir W. Jardine (Jardine, Sir William, Bart., + 1800-1874), was the son of Sir A. Jardine of Applegarth, Dumfriesshire. He + was educated at Edinburgh, and succeeded to the title on his father's + decease in 1821. He published, jointly with Mr. Prideaux, J. Selby, Sir + Stamford Raffles, Dr. Horsfield, and other ornithologists, 'Illustrations + of Ornithology,' and edited the 'Naturalist's Library,' in 40 volumes, + which included the four branches: Mammalia, Ornithology, Ichnology, and + Entomology. Of these 40 volumes 14 were written by himself. In 1836 he + became editor of the 'Magazine of Zoology and Botany,' which, two years + later, was transformed into 'Annals of Natural History,' but remained + under his direction. For Bohn's Standard Library he edited White's + 'Natural History of Selborne.' Sir W. Jardine was also joint editor of the + 'Edinburgh Philosophical Journal,' and was author of 'British Salmonidae,' + 'Ichthyology of Annandale,' 'Memoirs of the late Hugh Strickland,' + 'Contributions to Ornithology,' 'Ornithological Synonyms,' etc.—(Taken + from Ward, 'Men of the Reign,' and Cates, 'Dictionary of General + Biography.'): his criticisms are quite unimportant; some of the Galapagos + so-called species ought to be called varieties, which I fully expected; + some of the sub-genera, thought to be wholly endemic, have been found on + the Continent (not that he gives his authority), but I do not make out + that the species are the same. His letter is brief and vague, but he says + he will write again. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down [23rd December, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I received last night your 'Introduction,' for which very many thanks; I + am surprised to see how big it is: I shall not be able to read it very + soon. It was very good of you to send Naudin, for I was very curious to + see it. I am surprised that Decaisne should say it was the same as mine. + Naudin gives artificial selection, as well as a score of English writers, + and when he says species were formed in the same manner, I thought the + paper would certainly prove exactly the same as mine. But I cannot find + one word like the struggle for existence and natural selection. On the + contrary, he brings in his principle (page 103) of finality (which I do + not understand), which, he says, with some authors is fatality, with + others providence, and which adapts the forms of every being, and + harmonises them all throughout nature. + </p> + <p> + He assumes like old geologists (who assumed that the forces of nature were + formerly greater), that species were at first more plastic. His simile of + tree and classification is like mine (and others), but he cannot, I think, + have reflected much on the subject, otherwise he would see that genealogy + by itself does not give classification; I declare I cannot see a MUCH + closer approach to Wallace and me in Naudin than in Lamarck—we all + agree in modification and descent. If I do not hear from you I will return + the 'Revue' in a few days (with the cover). I dare say Lyell would be glad + to see it. By the way, I will retain the volume till I hear whether I + shall or not send it to Lyell. I should rather like Lyell to see this + note, though it is foolish work sticking up for independence or priority. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />A. SEDGWICK (Rev. Adam Sedgwick, 1785-1873, Woodwardian Professor of + Geology in the University of Cambridge.) TO CHARLES DARWIN. Cambridge, + December 24th, [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I write to thank you for your work on the 'Origin of Species.' It came, I + think, in the latter part of last week; but it MAY have come a few days + sooner, and been overlooked among my book-parcels, which often remain + unopened when I am lazy or busy with any work before me. So soon as I + opened it I began to read it, and I finished it, after many interruptions, + on Tuesday. Yesterday I was employed—1st, in preparing for my + lecture; 2ndly, in attending a meeting of my brother Fellows to discuss + the final propositions of the Parliamentary Commissioners; 3rdly, in + lecturing; 4thly, in hearing the conclusion of the discussion and the + College reply, whereby, in conformity with my own wishes, we accepted the + scheme of the Commissioners; 5thly, in dining with an old friend at Clare + College; 6thly, in adjourning to the weekly meeting of the Ray Club, from + which I returned at 10 P.M., dog-tired, and hardly able to climb my + staircase. Lastly, in looking through the "Times" to see what was going on + in the busy world. + </p> + <p> + I do not state this to fill space (though I believe that Nature does abhor + a vacuum), but to prove that my reply and my thanks are sent to you by the + earliest leisure I have, though that is but a very contracted opportunity. + If I did not think you a good-tempered and truth-loving man, I should not + tell you that (spite of the great knowledge, store of facts, capital views + of the correlation of the various parts of organic nature, admirable hints + about the diffusion, through wide regions of many related organic beings, + etc., etc.) I have read your book with more pain than pleasure. Parts of + it I admired greatly, parts I laughed at till my sides were almost sore; + other parts I read with absolute sorrow, because I think them utterly + false and grievously mischievous. You have DESERTED—after a start in + that tram-road of all solid physical truth—the true method of + induction, and started us in machinery as wild, I think, as Bishop + Wilkins's locomotive that was to sail with us to the moon. Many of your + wide conclusions are based upon assumptions which can neither be proved + nor disproved, why then express them in the language and arrangement of + philosophical induction? As to your grand principle—NATURAL + SELECTION—what is it but a secondary consequence of supposed, or + known, primary facts! Development is a better word, because more close to + the cause of the fact? For you do not deny causation. I call (in the + abstract) causation the will of God; and I can prove that He acts for the + good of His creatures. He also acts by laws which we can study and + comprehend. Acting by law, and under what is called final causes, + comprehends, I think, your whole principle. You write of "natural + selection" as if it were done curiously by the selecting agent. 'Tis but a + consequence of the presupposed development, and the subsequent battle for + life. This view of nature you have stated admirably, though admitted by + all naturalists and denied by no one of common sense. We all admit + development as a fact of history: but how came it about? Here, in + language, and still more in logic, we are point-blank at issue. There is a + moral or metaphysical part of nature as well a physical. A man who denies + this is deep in the mire of folly. 'Tis the crown and glory of organic + science that it DOES through FINAL CAUSE, link material and moral; and yet + DOES NOT allow us to mingle them in our first conception of laws, and our + classification of such laws, whether we consider one side of nature or the + other. You have ignored this link; and, if I do not mistake your meaning, + you have done your best in one or two pregnant cases to break it. Were it + possible (which, thank God, it is not) to break it, humanity, in my mind, + would suffer a damage that might brutalize it, and sink the human race + into a lower grade of degradation than any into which it has fallen since + its written records tell us of its history. Take the case of the + bee-cells. If your development produced the successive modification of the + bee and its cells (which no mortal can prove), final cause would stand + good as the directing cause under which the successive generations acted + and gradually improved. Passages in your book, like that to which I have + alluded (and there are others almost as bad), greatly shocked my moral + taste. I think, in speculating on organic descent, you OVER-state the + evidence of geology; and that you UNDER-state it while you are talking of + the broken links of your natural pedigree: but my paper is nearly done, + and I must go to my lecture-room. Lastly, then, I greatly dislike the + concluding chapter—not as a summary, for in that light it appears + good—but I dislike it from the tone of triumphant confidence in + which you appeal to the rising generation (in a tone I condemned in the + author of the 'Vestiges') and prophesy of things not yet in the womb of + time, nor (if we are to trust the accumulated experience of human sense + and the inferences of its logic) ever likely to be found anywhere but in + the fertile womb of man's imagination. And now to say a word about a son + of a monkey and an old friend of yours: I am better, far better, than I + was last year. I have been lecturing three days a week (formerly I gave + six a week) without much fatigue, but I find by the loss of activity and + memory, and of all productive powers, that my bodily frame is sinking + slowly towards the earth. But I have visions of the future. They are as + much a part of myself as my stomach and my heart, and these visions are to + have their antitype in solid fruition of what is best and greatest. But on + one condition only—that I humbly accept God's revelation of Himself + both in his works and in His word, and do my best to act in conformity + with that knowledge which He only can give me, and He only can sustain me + in doing. If you and I do all this we shall meet in heaven. + </p> + <p> + I have written in a hurry, and in a spirit of brotherly love, therefore + forgive any sentence you happen to dislike; and believe me, spite of any + disagreement in some points of the deepest moral interest, your + tru-hearted old friend, + </p> + <p> + A. SEDGWICK. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, December 25th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + One part of your note has pleased me so much that I must thank you for it. + Not only Sir H.H. [Holland], but several others, have attacked me about + analogy leading to belief in one primordial CREATED form. ('Origin,' + edition i. page 484.—"Therefore I should infer from analogy that + probably all the organic beings which have ever lived on this earth have + descended from some one primordial form, into which life was first + breathed.") (By which I mean only that we know nothing as yet [of] how + life originates.) I thought I was universally condemned on this head. But + I answered that though perhaps it would have been more prudent not to have + put it in, I would not strike it out, as it seemed to me probable, and I + give it on no other grounds. You will see in your mind the kind of + arguments which made me think it probable, and no one fact had so great an + effect on me as your most curious remarks on the apparent homologies of + the head of Vertebrata and Articulata. + </p> + <p> + You have done a real good turn in the Agency business ("My General Agent" + was a sobriquet applied at this time by my father to Mr. Huxley.) (I never + before heard of a hard-working, unpaid agent besides yourself), in talking + with Sir H.H., for he will have great influence over many. He floored me + from my ignorance about the bones of the ear, and I made a mental note to + ask you what the facts were. + </p> + <p> + With hearty thanks and real admiration for your generous zeal for the + subject. + </p> + <p> + Yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + You may smile about the care and precautions I have taken about my ugly + MS. (Manuscript left with Mr. Huxley for his perusal.); it is not so much + the value I set on them, but the remembrance of the intolerable labour—for + instance, in tracing the history of the breeds of pigeons. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, 25th [December, 1859]. + </p> + <p> + ... I shall not write to Decaisne (With regard to Naudin's paper in the + 'Revue Horticole,' 1852.); I have always had a strong feeling that no one + had better defend his own priority. I cannot say that I am as indifferent + to the subject as I ought to be, but one can avoid doing anything in + consequence. + </p> + <p> + I do not believe one iota about your having assimilated any of my notions + unconsciously. You have always done me more than justice. But I do think I + did you a bad turn by getting you to read the old MS., as it must have + checked your own original thoughts. There is one thing I am fully + convinced of, that the future progress (which is the really important + point) of the subject will have depended on really good and well-known + workers, like yourself, Lyell, and Huxley, having taken up the subject, + than on my own work. I see plainly it is this that strikes my + no-scientific friends. + </p> + <p> + Last night I said to myself, I would just cut your Introduction, but would + not begin to read, but I broke down, and had a good hour's read. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. December 28th, 1859. + </p> + <p> + ... Have you seen the splendid essay and notice of my book in the "Times"? + (December 26th.) I cannot avoid a strong suspicion that it is by Huxley; + but I never heard that he wrote in the "Times". It will do grand + service,... + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, December 28th [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Yesterday evening, when I read the "Times" of a previous day, I was amazed + to find a splendid essay and review of me. Who can the author be? I am + intensely curious. It included an eulogium of me which quite touched me, + though I am not vain enough to think it all deserved. The author is a + literary man, and German scholar. He has read my book very attentively; + but, what is very remarkable, it seems that he is a profound naturalist. + He knows my Barnacle-book, and appreciates it too highly. Lastly, he + writes and thinks with quite uncommon force and clearness; and what is + even still rarer, his writing is seasoned with most pleasant wit. We all + laughed heartily over some of the sentences. I was charmed with those + unreasonable mortals, who know anything, all thinking fit to range + themselves on one side. (The reviewer proposes to pass by the orthodox + view, according to which the phenomena of the organic world are "the + immediate product of a creative fiat, and consequently are out of the + domain of science altogether." And he does so "with less hesitation, as it + so happens that those persons who are practically conversant with the + facts of the case (plainly a considerable advantage) have always thought + fit to range themselves" in the category of those holding "views which + profess to rest on a scientific basis only, and therefore admit of being + argued to their consequences.") Who can it be? Certainly I should have + said that there was only one man in England who could have written this + essay, and that YOU were the man. But I suppose I am wrong, and that there + is some hidden genius of great calibre. For how could you influence + Jupiter Olympius and make him give three and a half columns to pure + science? The old fogies will think the world will come to an end. Well, + whoever the man is, he has done great service to the cause, far more than + by a dozen reviews in common periodicals. The grand way he soars above + common religious prejudices, and the admission of such views into the + "Times", I look at as of the highest importance, quite independently of + the mere question of species. If you should happen to be ACQUAINTED with + the author, for Heaven-sake tell me who he is? + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, yours most sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [It is impossible to give in a short space an adequate idea of Mr. + Huxley's article in the "Times" of December 26. It is admirably planned, + so as to claim for the 'Origin' a respectful hearing, and it abstains from + anything like dogmatism in asserting the truth of the doctrines therein + upheld. A few passages may be quoted:—"That this most ingenious + hypothesis enables us to give a reason for many apparent anomalies in the + distribution of living beings in time and space, and that it is not + contradicted by the main phenomena of life and organisation, appear to us + to be unquestionable." Mr. Huxley goes on to recommend to the readers of + the 'Origin' a condition of "thatige Skepsis"—a state of "doubt + which so loves truth that it neither dares rest in doubting, nor + extinguish itself by unjustified belief." The final paragraph is in a + strong contrast to Professor Sedgwick and his "ropes of bubbles" (see + below). Mr. Huxley writes: "Mr. Darwin abhors mere speculation as nature + abhors a vacuum. He is as greedy of cases and precedents as any + constitutional lawyer, and all the principles he lays down are capable of + being brought to the test of observation and experiment. The path he bids + us follow professes to be not a mere airy track, fabricated of ideal + cobwebs, but a solid and broad bridge of facts. If it be so, it will carry + us safely over many a chasm in our knowledge, and lead us to a region free + from the snares of those fascinating but barren virgins, the Final Causes, + against whom a high authority has so justly warned us." + </p> + <p> + There can be no doubt that this powerful essay, appearing as it did in the + leading daily Journal, must have had a strong influence on the reading + public. Mr. Huxley allows me to quote from a letter an account of the + happy chance that threw into his hands the opportunity of writing it. + </p> + <p> + "The 'Origin' was sent to Mr. Lucas, one of the staff of the "Times" + writers at that day, in what I suppose was the ordinary course of + business. Mr. Lucas, though an excellent journalist, and, at a later + period, editor of 'Once a Week,' was as innocent of any knowledge of + science as a babe, and bewailed himself to an acquaintance on having to + deal with such a book. Whereupon he was recommended to ask me to get him + out of his difficulty, and he applied to me accordingly, explaining, + however, that it would be necessary for him formally to adopt anything I + might be disposed to write, by prefacing it with two or three paragraphs + of his own. + </p> + <p> + "I was too anxious to seize upon the opportunity thus offered of giving + the book a fair chance with the multitudinous readers of the "Times" to + make any difficulty about conditions; and being then very full of the + subject, I wrote the article faster, I think, than I ever wrote anything + in my life, and sent it to Mr. Lucas, who duly prefixed his opening + sentences. + </p> + <p> + "When the article appeared, there was much speculation as to its + authorship. The secret leaked out in time, as all secrets will, but not by + my aid; and then I used to derive a good deal of innocent amusement from + the vehement assertions of some of my more acute friends, that they knew + it was mine from the first paragraph! + </p> + <p> + "As the "Times" some years since, referred to my connection with the + review, I suppose there will be no breach of confidence in the publication + of this little history, if you think it worth the space it will occupy."] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.II. — THE 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES' (continued). + </h2> + <h3> + 1860. + </h3> + <p> + [I extract a few entries from my father's Diary:— + </p> + <p> + "January 7th. The second edition, 3000 copies, of 'Origin' was published." + </p> + <p> + "May 22nd. The first edition of 'Origin' in the United States was 2500 + copies." + </p> + <p> + My father has here noted down the sums received for the 'Origin.' + </p> + <p> + First Edition......180 pounds Second Edition.....636 pounds 13 shillings 4 + pence + </p> + <p> + Total..............816 pounds 13 shillings 4 pence. + </p> + <p> + After the publication of the second edition he began at once, on January + 9th, looking over his materials for the 'Variation of Animals and Plants;' + the only other work of the year was on Drosera. + </p> + <p> + He was at Down during the whole of this year, except for a visit to Dr. + Lane's Water-cure Establishment at Sudbrooke, and in June, and for visits + to Miss Elizabeth Wedgwood's house at Hartfield, in Sussex (July), and to + Eastbourne, September 22 to November 16.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, January 3rd [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have finished your Essay. ('Australian Flora.') As probably you would + like to hear my opinion, though a non-botanist, I will give it without any + exaggeration. To my judgment it is by far the grandest and most + interesting essay, on subjects of the nature discussed, I have ever read. + You know how I admired your former essays, but this seems to me far + grander. I like all the part after page xxvi better than the first part, + probably because newer to me. I dare say you will demur to this, for I + think every author likes the most speculative parts of his own + productions. How superior your essay is to the famous one of Brown (here + will be sneer 1st from you). You have made all your conclusions so + admirably clear, that it would be no use at all to be a botanist (sneer + No. 2). By Jove, it would do harm to affix any idea to the long names of + outlandish orders. One can look at your conclusions with the philosophic + abstraction with which a mathematician looks at his a times x + the square + root of z squared, etc. etc. I hardly know which parts have interested me + most; for over and over again I exclaimed, "this beats all." The general + comparison of the Flora of Australia with the rest of the world, strikes + me (as before) as extremely original, good, and suggestive of many + reflections. + </p> + <p> + ... The invading Indian Flora is very interesting, but I think the fact + you mention towards the close of the essay—that the Indian + vegetation, in contradistinction to the Malayan vegetation, is found in + low and level parts of the Malay Islands, GREATLY lessens the difficulty + which at first (page 1) seemed so great. There is nothing like one's own + hobby-horse. I suspect it is the same case as of glacial migration, and of + naturalised production—of production of greater area conquering + those of lesser; of course the Indian forms would have a greater + difficulty in seizing on the cool parts of Australia. I demur to your + remarks (page 1), as not "conceiving anything in soil, climate, or + vegetation of India," which could stop the introduction of Australian + plants. Towards the close of the essay (page civ), you have admirable + remarks on our profound ignorance of the cause of possible naturalisation + or introduction; I would answer page 1, by a later page, viz. page civ. + </p> + <p> + Your contrast of the south-west and south-east corners is one of the most + wonderful cases I ever heard of... You show the case with wonderful force. + Your discussion on mixed invaders of the south-east corner (and of New + Zealand) is as curious and intricate a problem as of the races of men in + Britain. Your remark on mixed invading Flora keeping down or destroying an + original Flora, which was richer in number of species, strikes me as + EMINENTLY NEW AND IMPORTANT. I am not sure whether to me the discussion on + the New Zealand Flora is not even more instructive. I cannot too much + admire both. But it will require a long time to suck in all the facts. + Your case of the largest Australian orders having none, or very few, + species in New Zealand, is truly marvellous. Anyhow, you have now + DEMONSTRATED (together with no mammals in New Zealand) (bitter sneer No. + 3), that New Zealand has never been continuously, or even nearly + continuously, united by land to Australia!! At page lxxxix, is the only + sentence (on this subject) in the whole essay at which I am much inclined + to quarrel, viz. that no theory of trans-oceanic migration can explain, + etc. etc. Now I maintain against all the world, that no man knows anything + about the power of trans-oceanic migration. You do not know whether or not + the absent orders have seeds which are killed by sea-water, like almost + all Leguminosae, and like another order which I forget. Birds do not + migrate from Australia to New Zealand, and therefore floatation SEEMS the + only possible means; but yet I maintain that we do not know enough to + argue on the question, especially as we do not know the main fact whether + the seeds of Australian orders are killed by sea-water. + </p> + <p> + The discussion on European Genera is profoundly interesting; but here + alone I earnestly beg for more information, viz. to know which of these + genera are absent in the Tropics of the world, i.e. confined to temperate + regions. I excessively wish to know, ON THE NOTION OF GLACIAL MIGRATION, + how much modification has taken place in Australia. I had better explain + when we meet, and get you to go over and mark the list. + </p> + <p> + ... The list of naturalised plants is extremely interesting, but why at + the end, in the name of all that is good and bad, do you not sum up and + comment on your facts? Come, I will have a sneer at you in return for the + many which you will have launched at this letter. Should you have remarked + on the number of plants naturalised in Australia and the United States + UNDER EXTREMELY DIFFERENT CLIMATES, as showing that climate is so + important, and [on] the considerable sprinkling of plants from India, + North America, and South Africa, as showing that the frequent introduction + of seeds is so important? With respect to "abundance of unoccupied ground + in Australia," do you believe that European plants introduced by man now + grow on spots in Australia which were absolutely bare? But I am an + impudent dog, one must defend one's own fancy theories against such cruel + men as you. I dare say this letter will appear very conceited, but one + must form an opinion on what one reads with attention, and in simple + truth, I cannot find words strong enough to express my admiration of your + essay. + </p> + <p> + My dear old friend, yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I differ about the "Saturday Review". ("Saturday Review", + December 24, 1859. The hostile arguments of the reviewer are geological, + and he deals especially with the denudation of the Weald. The reviewer + remarks that, "if a million of centuries, more or less, is needed for any + part of his argument, he feels no scruple in taking them to suit his + purpose.") One cannot expect fairness in a reviewer, so I do not complain + of all the other arguments besides the 'Geological Record' being omitted. + Some of the remarks about the lapse of years are very good, and the + reviewer gives me some good and well-deserved raps—confound it. I am + sorry to confess the truth: but it does not at all concern the main + argument. That was a nice notice in the "Gardeners' Chronicle". I hope and + imagine that Lindley is almost a convert. Do not forget to tell me if + Bentham gets all the more staggered. + </p> + <p> + With respect to tropical plants during the Glacial period, I throw in your + teeth your own facts, at the base of the Himalaya, on the possibility of + the co-existence of at least forms of the tropical and temperate regions. + I can give a parallel case for animals in Mexico. Oh! my dearly beloved + puny child, how cruel men are to you! I am very glad you approve of the + Geographical chapters... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, [January 4th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear L. + </p> + <p> + "Gardeners' Chronicle" returned safe. Thanks for note. I am beyond measure + glad that you get more and more roused on the subject of species, for, as + I have always said, I am well convinced that your opinions and writings + will do far more to convince the world than mine. You will make a grand + discussion on man. You are very bold in this, and I honour you. I have + been, like you, quite surprised at the want of originality in opposed + arguments and in favour too. Gwyn Jeffreys attacks me justly in his letter + about strictly littoral shells not being often embedded at least in + Tertiary deposits. I was in a muddle, for I was thinking of Secondary, yet + Chthamalus applied to Tertiary... + </p> + <p> + Possibly you might like to see the enclosed note (Dr. Whewell wrote + (January 2, 1860): "... I cannot, yet at least, become a convert. But + there is so much of thought and of fact in what you have written that it + is not to be contradicted without careful selection of the ground and + manner of the dissent." Dr. Whewell dissented in a practical manner for + some years, by refusing to allow a copy of the 'Origin of Species' to be + placed in the Library of Trinity College.) from Whewell, merely as showing + that he is not horrified with us. You can return it whenever you have + occasion to write, so as not to waste your time. + </p> + <p> + C.D. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, [January 4th? 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have had a brief note from Keyserling (Joint author with Murchison + of the 'Geology of Russia,' 1845.), but not worth sending you. He believes + in change of species, grants that natural selection explains well + adaptation of form, but thinks species change too regularly, as if by some + chemical law, for natural selection to be the sole cause of change. I can + hardly understand his brief note, but this is I think the upshot. + </p> + <p> + ... I will send A. Murray's paper whenever published. (The late Andrew + Murray wrote two papers on the 'Origin' in the Proc. R. Soc. Edin. 1860. + The one referred to here is dated January 16, 1860. The following is + quoted from page 6 of the separate copy: "But the second, and, as it + appears to me, by much the most important phase of reversion to type (and + which is practically, if not altogether ignored by Mr. Darwin), is the + instinctive inclination which induces individuals of the same species by + preference to intercross with those possessing the qualities which they + themselves want, so as to preserve the purity or equilibrium of the + breed... It is trite to a proverb, that tall men marry little women... a + man of genius marries a fool... and we are told that this is the result of + the charm of contrast, or of qualities admired in others because we do not + possess them. I do not so explain it. I imagine it is the effort of nature + to preserve the typical medium of the race.") It includes speculations + (which he perhaps will modify) so rash, and without a single fact in + support, that had I advanced them he or other reviewers would have hit me + very hard. I am sorry to say that I have no "consolatory view" on the + dignity of man. I am content that man will probably advance, and care not + much whether we are looked at as mere savages in a remotely distant + future. Many thanks for your last note. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I have received, in a Manchester newspaper, rather a good squib, showing + that I have proved "might is right," and therefore that Napoleon is right, + and every cheating tradesman is also right. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.B. CARPENTER. Down, January 6th [1860]? + </p> + <p> + My dear Carpenter, + </p> + <p> + I have just read your excellent article in the 'National.' It will do + great good; especially if it becomes known as your production. It seems to + me to give an excellently clear account of Mr. Wallace's and my views. How + capitally you turn the flanks of the theological opposers by opposing to + them such men as Bentham and the more philosophical of the systematists! I + thank you sincerely for the EXTREMELY honourable manner in which you + mention me. I should have liked to have seen some criticisms or remarks on + embryology, on which subject you are so well instructed. I do not think + any candid person can read your article without being much impressed with + it. The old doctrine of immutability of specific forms will surely but + slowly die away. It is a shame to give you trouble, but I should be very + much obliged if you could tell me where differently coloured eggs in + individuals of the cuckoo have been described, and their laying in + twent-seven kinds of nests. Also do you know from your own observation + that the limbs of sheep imported into the West Indies change colour? I + have had detailed information about the loss of wool; but my accounts made + the change slower than you describe. + </p> + <p> + With most cordial thanks and respect, believe me, my dear Carpenter, yours + very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO L. JENYNS. (Rev. L. Blomefield.) Down, January + 7th, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Jenyns, + </p> + <p> + I am very much obliged for your letter. It is of great use and interest to + me to know what impression my book produces on philosophical and + instructed minds. I thank you for the kind things which you say; and you + go with me much further than I expected. You will think it presumptuous, + but I am convinced, IF CIRCUMSTANCES LEAD YOU TO KEEP THE SUBJECT IN MIND, + that you will go further. No one has yet cast doubts on my explanation of + the subordination of group to group, on homologies, embryology, and + rudimentary organs; and if my explanation of these classes of facts be at + all right, whole classes of organic beings must be included in one line of + descent. + </p> + <p> + The imperfection of the Geological Record is one of the greatest + difficulties... During the earliest period the record would be most + imperfect, and this seems to me sufficient to account for our not finding + intermediate forms between the classes in the same great kingdoms. It was + certainly rash in me putting in my belief of the probability of all beings + having descended from ONE primordial form; but as this seems yet to me + probable, I am not willing to strike it out. Huxley alone supports me in + this, and something could be said in its favour. With respect to man, I am + very far from wishing to obtrude my belief; but I thought it dishonest to + quite conceal my opinion. Of course it is open to every one to believe + that man appeared by a separate miracle, though I do not myself see the + necessity or probability. + </p> + <p> + Pray accept my sincere thanks for your kind note. Your going some way with + me gives me great confidence that I am not very wrong. For a very long + time I halted half way; but I do not believe that any enquiring mind will + rest half-way. People will have to reject all or admit all; by ALL I mean + only the members of each great kingdom. + </p> + <p> + My dear Jenyns, yours most sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, January 10th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... It is perfectly true that I owe nearly all the corrections (The second + edition of 3000 copies of the 'Origin' was published on January 7th.) to + you, and several verbal ones to you and others; I am heartily glad you + approve of them, as yet only two things have annoyed me; those confounded + millions (This refers to the passage in the 'Origin of Species' (2nd + edition, page 285), in which the lapse of time implied by the denudation + of the Weald is discussed. The discussion closes with the sentence: "So + that it is not improbable that a longer period than 300 million years has + elapsed since the latter part of the Secondary period." This passage is + omitted in the later editions of the 'Origin,' against the advice of some + of his friends, as appears from the pencil notes in my father's copy of + the second edition.) of years (not that I think it is probably wrong), and + my not having (by inadvertance) mentioned Wallace towards the close of the + book in the summary, not that any one has noticed this to me. I have now + put in Wallace's name at page 484 in a conspicuous place. I cannot refer + you to tables of mortality of children, etc. etc. I have notes somewhere, + but I have not the LEAST idea where to hunt, and my notes would now be + old. I shall be truly glad to read carefully any MS. on man, and give my + opinion. You used to caution me to be cautious about man. I suspect I + shall have to return the caution a hundred fold! Yours will, no doubt, be + a grand discussion; but it will horrify the world at first more than my + whole volume; although by the sentence (page 489, new edition (First + edition, page 488.)) I show that I believe man is in the same predicament + with other animals. It is, in fact, impossible to doubt it. I have thought + (only vaguely) on man. With respect to the races, one of my best chances + of truth has broken down from the impossibility of getting facts. I have + one good speculative line, but a man must have entire credence in Natural + Selection before he will even listen to it. Psychologically, I have done + scarcely anything. Unless, indeed, expression of countenance can be + included, and on that subject I have collected a good many facts, and + speculated, but I do not suppose I shall ever publish, but it is an + uncommonly curious subject. By the way, I sent off a lot of questions the + day before yesterday to Tierra del Fuego on expression! I suspect (for I + have never read it) that Spencer's 'Psychology' has a bearing on + Psychology as we should look at it. By all means read the Preface, in + about 20 pages, of Hensleigh Wedgwood's new Dictionary on the first origin + of Language; Erasmus would lend it. I agree about Carpenter, a very good + article, but with not much original... Andrew Murray has criticised, in an + address to the Botanical Society of Edinburgh, the notice in the 'Linnean + Journal,' and "has disposed of" the whole theory by an ingenious + difficulty, which I was very stupid not to have thought of; for I express + surprise at more and analogous cases not being known. The difficulty is, + that amongst the blind insects of the caves in distant parts of the world + there are some of the same genus, and yet the genus is not found out of + the caves or living in the free world. I have little doubt that, like the + fish Amblyopsis, and like Proteus in Europe, these insects are "wrecks of + ancient life," or "living fossils," saved from competition and + extermination. But that formerly SEEING insects of the same genus roamed + over the whole area in which the cases are included. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—OUR ancestor was an animal which breathed water, had a swim + bladder, a great swimming tail, an imperfect skull, and undoubtedly was an + hermaphrodite! + </p> + <p> + Here is a pleasant genealogy for mankind. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, January 14th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I shall be much interested in reading your man discussion, and will + give my opinion carefully, whatever that may be worth; but I have so long + looked at you as the type of cautious scientific judgment (to my mind one + of the highest and most useful qualities), that I suspect my opinion will + be superfluous. It makes me laugh to think what a joke it will be if I + have to caution you, after your cautions on the same subject to me! + </p> + <p> + I will order Owen's book ('Classification of the Mammalia,' 1859.); I am + very glad to hear Huxley's opinion on his classification of man; without + having due knowledge, it seemed to me from the very first absurd; all + classifications founded on single characters I believe have failed. + </p> + <p> + ... What a grand, immense benefit you conferred on me by getting Murray to + publish my book. I never till to-day realised that it was getting widely + distributed; for in a letter from a lady to-day to E., she says she heard + a man enquiring for it at the RAILWAY STATION!!! at Waterloo Bridge; and + the bookseller said that he had none till the new edition was out. The + bookseller said he had not read it, but had heard it was a very remarkable + book!!!... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, 14th [January, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I heard from Lyell this morning, and he tells me a piece of news. You + are a good-for-nothing man; here you are slaving yourself to death with + hardly a minute to spare, and you must write a review of my book! I + thought it ('Gardeners' Chronicle', 1860. Referred to above. Sir J.D. + Hooker took the line of complete impartiality, so as not to commit + Lindley.) a very good one, and was so much struck with it that I sent it + to Lyell. But I assumed, as a matter of course, that it was Lindley's. Now + that I know it is yours, I have re-read it, and, my kind and good friend, + it has warmed my heart with all the honourable and noble things you say of + me and it. I was a good deal surprised at Lindley hitting on some of the + remarks, but I never dreamed of you. I admired it chiefly as so well + adapted to tell on the readers of the 'Gardeners' Chronicle'; but now I + admired it in another spirit. Farewell, with hearty thanks... Lyell is + going at man with an audacity that frightens me. It is a good joke; he + used always to caution me to slip over man. + </p> + <p> + [In the "Gardeners' Chronicle", January 21, 1860, appeared a short letter + from my father which was called forth by Mr. Westwood's communication to + the previous number of the journal, in which certain phenomena of + cros-breeding are discussed in relation to the 'Origin of Species.' Mr. + Westwood wrote in reply (February 11) and adduced further evidence against + the doctrine of descent, such as the identity of the figures of ostriches + on the ancient "Egyptian records," with the bird as we now know it. The + correspondence is hardly worth mentioning, except as one of the very few + cases in which my father was enticed into anything resembling a + controversy.] + </p> + <p> + ASA GRAY TO J.D. HOOKER. Cambridge, Mass., January 5th, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Your last letter, which reached me just before Christmas, has got mislaid + during the upturnings in my study which take place at that season, and has + not yet been discovered. I should be very sorry to lose it, for there were + in it some botanical mems. which I had not secured... + </p> + <p> + The principal part of your letter was high laudation of Darwin's book. + </p> + <p> + Well, the book has reached me, and I finished its careful perusal four + days ago; and I freely say that your laudation is not out of place. + </p> + <p> + It is done in a MASTERLY MANNER. It might well have taken twenty years to + produce it. It is crammed full of most interesting matter—thoroughly + digested—well expressed—close, cogent, and taken as a system + it makes out a better case than I had supposed possible... + </p> + <p> + Agassiz, when I saw him last, had read but a part of it. He says it is + POOR—VERY POOR!! (entre nous). The fact [is] he is very much annoyed + by it,... and I do not wonder at it. To bring all IDEAL systems within the + domain of science, and give good physical or natural explanations of all + his capital points, is as bad as to have Forbes take the glacier + materials... and give scientific explanation of all the phenomena. + </p> + <p> + Tell Darwin all this. I will write to him when I get a chance. As I have + promised, he and you shall have fair-play here... I must myself write a + review of Darwin's book for 'Silliman's Journal' (the more so that I + suspect Agassiz means to come out upon it) for the next (March) No., and I + am now setting about it (when I ought to be every moment working the + Expl[oring] Expedition Compositae, which I know far more about). And + really it is no easy job, as you may well imagine. + </p> + <p> + I doubt if I shall please you altogether. I know I shall not please + Agassiz at all. I hear another reprint is in the Press, and the book will + excite much attention here, and some controversy... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, January 28th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Hooker has forwarded to me your letter to him; and I cannot express how + deeply it has gratified me. To receive the approval of a man whom one has + long sincerely respected. And whose judgment and knowledge are most + universally admitted, is the highest reward an author can possibly wish + for; and I thank you heartily for your most kind expressions. + </p> + <p> + I have been absent from home for a few days, and so could not earlier + answer your letter to me of the 10th of January. You have been extremely + kind to take so much trouble and interest about the edition. It has been a + mistake of my publisher not thinking of sending over the sheets. I had + entirely and utterly forgotten your offer of receiving the sheets as + printed off. But I must not blame my publisher, for had I remembered your + most kind offer I feel pretty sure I should not have taken advantage of + it; for I never dreamed of my book being so successful with general + readers; I believe I should have laughed at the idea of sending the sheets + to America. (In a letter to Mr. Murray, 1860, my father wrote:—"I am + amused by Asa Gray's account of the excitement my book has made amongst + naturalists in the United States. Agassiz has denounced it in a newspaper, + but yet in such terms that it is in fact a fine advertisement!" This seems + to refer to a lecture given before the Mercantile Library Association.) + </p> + <p> + After much consideration, and on the strong advice of Lyell and others, I + have resolved to leave the present book as it is (excepting correcting + errors, or here and there inserting short sentences) and to use all my + strength, WHICH IS BUT LITTLE, to bring out the first part (forming a + separate volume with index, etc.) of the three volumes which will make my + bigger work; so that I am very unwilling to take up time in making + corrections for an American edition. I enclose a list of a few corrections + in the second reprint, which you will have received by this time complete, + and I could send four or five corrections or additions of equally small + importance, or rather of equal brevity. I also intend to write a SHORT + preface with a brief history of the subject. These I will set about, as + they must some day be done, and I will send them to you in a short time—the + few corrections first, and the preface afterwards, unless I hear that you + have given up all idea of a separate edition. You will then be able to + judge whether it is worth having the new edition with YOUR REVIEW + PREFIXED. Whatever be the nature of your review, I assure you I should + feel it a GREAT honour to have my book thus preceded... + </p> + <p> + ASA GRAY TO CHARLES DARWIN. Cambridge, January 23rd, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + You have my hurried letter telling you of the arrival of the remainder of + the sheets of the reprint, and of the stir I had made for a reprint in + Boston. Well, all looked pretty well, when, lo, we found that a second New + York publishing house had announced a reprint also! I wrote then to both + New York publishers, asking them to give way to the AUTHOR and his reprint + of a revised edition. I got an answer from the Harpers that they withdraw + —from the Appletons that they had got the book OUT (and the next day + I saw a copy); but that, "if the work should have any considerable sale, + we certainly shall be disposed to pay the author reasonably and + liberally." + </p> + <p> + The Appletons being thus out with their reprint, the Boston house declined + to go on. So I wrote to the Appletons taking them at their word, offering + to aid their reprint, to give them the use of the alterations in the + London reprint, as soon as I find out what they are, etc. etc. And I sent + them the first leaf, and asked them to insert in their future issue the + additional matter from Butler (A quotation from Butler's 'Analogy,' on the + use of the word natural, which in the second edition is placed with the + passages from Whewell and Bacon on page ii, opposite the title-page.), + which tells just right. So there the matter stands. If you furnish any + matter in advance of the London third edition, I will make them pay for + it. + </p> + <p> + I may get something for you. All got is clear gain; but it will not be + very much, I suppose. + </p> + <p> + Such little notices in the papers here as have yet appeared are quite + handsome and considerate. + </p> + <p> + I hope next week to get printed sheets of my review from New Haven, and + send [them] to you, and will ask you to pass them on to Dr. Hooker. + </p> + <p> + To fulfil your request, I ought to tell you what I think the weakest, and + what the best, part of your book. But this is not easy, nor to be done in + a word or two. The BEST PART, I think, is the WHOLE, i.e., its PLAN and + TREATMENT, the vast amount of facts and acute inferences handled as if you + had a perfect mastery of them. I do not think twenty years too much time + to produce such a book in. + </p> + <p> + Style clear and good, but now and then wants revision for little matters + (page 97, self-fertilises ITSELF, etc.). + </p> + <p> + Then your candour is worth everything to your cause. It is refreshing to + find a person with a new theory who frankly confesses that he finds + difficulties, insurmountable, at least for the present. I know some people + who never have any difficulties to speak of. + </p> + <p> + The moment I understood your premisses, I felt sure you had a real + foundation to hold on. Well, if one admits your premisses, I do not see + how he is to stop short of your conclusions, as a probable hypothesis at + least. + </p> + <p> + It naturally happens that my review of your book does not exhibit anything + like the full force of the impression the book has made upon me. Under the + circumstances I suppose I do your theory more good here, by bespeaking for + it a fair and favourable consideration, and by standing non-committed as + to its full conclusions, than I should if I announced myself a convert; + nor could I say the latter, with truth. + </p> + <p> + Well, what seems to me the weakest point in the book is the attempt to + account for the formation of organs, the making of eyes, etc., by natural + selection. Some of this reads quite Lamarckian. + </p> + <p> + The chapter on HYBRIDISM is not a WEAK, but a STRONG chapter. You have + done wonders there. But still you have not accounted, as you may be held + to account, for divergence up to a certain extent producing increased + fertility of the crosses, but carried one short almost imperceptible step + more, giving rise to sterility, or reversing the tendency. Very likely you + are on the right track; but you have something to do yet in that + department. + </p> + <p> + Enough for the present. + </p> + <p> + ... I am not insensible to your compliments, the very high compliment + which you pay me in valuing my opinion. You evidently think more of it + than I do, though from the way I write [to] you, and especially [to] + Hooker, this might not be inferred from the reading of my letters. + </p> + <p> + I am free to say that I never learnt so much from one book as I have from + yours, there remain a thousand things I long to say about it. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, ASA GRAY. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. [February? 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... Now I will just run through some points in your letter. What you say + about my book gratifies me most deeply, and I wish I could feel all was + deserved by me. I quite think a review from a man, who is not an entire + convert, if fair and moderately favourable, is in all respects the best + kind of review. About the weak points I agree. The eye to this day gives + me a cold shudder, but when I think of the fine known gradations, my + reason tells me I ought to conquer the cold shudder. + </p> + <p> + Pray kindly remember and tell Prof. Wyman how very grateful I should be + for any hints, information, or criticisms. I have the highest respect for + his opinion. I am so sorry about Dana's health. I have already asked him + to pay me a visit. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, you have laid me under a load of obligation—not that I + feel it a load. It is the highest possible gratification to me to think + that you have found my book worth reading and reflection; for you and + three others I put down in my own mind as the judges whose opinions I + should value most of all. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, yours most sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I feel pretty sure, from my own experience, that if you are led + by your studies to keep the subject of the origin of species before your + mind, you will go further and further in your belief. It took me long + years, and I assure you I am astonished at the impression my book has made + on many minds. I fear twenty years ago, I should not have been half as + candid and open to conviction. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [January 31st, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have resolved to publish a little sketch of the progress of opinion on + the change of species. Will you or Mrs. Hooker do me the favour to copy + ONE sentence out of Naudin's paper in the 'Revue Horticole,' 1852, page + 103, namely, that on his principle of Finalite. Can you let me have it + soon, with those confounded dashes over the vowels put in carefully? Asa + Gray, I believe, is going to get a second edition of my book, and I want + to send this little preface over to him soon. I did not think of the + necessity of having Naudin's sentence on finality, otherwise I would have + copied it. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I shall end by just alluding to your Australian Flora + Introduction. What was the date of publication: December 1859, or January + 1860? Please answer this. + </p> + <p> + My preface will also do for the French edition, which I BELIEVE, is agreed + on. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. February [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... As the 'Origin' now stands, Harvey's (William Henry Harvey was + descended from a Quaker family of Youghal, and was born in February, 1811, + at Summerville, a country house on the banks of the Shannon. He died at + Torquay in 1866. In 1835, Harvey went to Africa (Table Bay) to pursue his + botanical studies, the results of which were given in his 'Genera of South + African Plants.' In 1838, ill-health compelled him to obtain leave of + absence, and return to England for a time; in 1840 he returned to Cape + Town, to be again compelled by illness to leave. In 1843 he obtained the + appointment of Botanical Professor at Trinity College, Dublin. In 1854, + 1855, and 1856 he visited Australia, New Zealand, the Friendly and Fiji + Islands. In 1857 Dr. Harvey reached home, and was appointed the successor + of Professor Allman to the Chair of Botany in Dublin University. He was + author of several botanical works, principally on Algae.—(From a + Memoir published in 1869.)) is a good hit against my talking so much of + the insensibly fine gradations; and certainly it has astonished me that I + should be pelted with the fact, that I had not allowed abrupt and great + enough variations under nature. It would take a good deal more evidence to + make me admit that forms have often changed by saltum. + </p> + <p> + Have you seen Wollaston's attack in the 'Annals'? ('Annals and Magazine of + Natural History,' 1860.) The stones are beginning to fly. But Theology has + more to do with these two attacks than Science... + </p> + <p> + [In the above letter a paper by Harvey in the "Gardeners' Chronicle", + February 18, 1860, is alluded to. He describes a case of monstrosity in + Begonia frigida, in which the "sport" differed so much from a normal + Begonia that it might have served as the type of a distinct natural order. + Harvey goes on to argue that such a case is hostile to the theory of + natural selection, according to which changes are not supposed to take + place per saltum, and adds that "a few such cases would overthrow it [Mr. + Darwin's hypothesis] altogether." In the following number of the + "Gardeners' Chronicle" Sir J.D. Hooker showed that Dr. Harvey had + misconceived the bearing of the Begonia case, which he further showed to + be by no means calculated to shake the validity of the doctrine of + modification by means of natural selection. My father mentions the Begonia + case in a letter to Lyell (February 18, 1860):— + </p> + <p> + "I send by this post an attack in the "Gardeners' Chronicle", by Harvey (a + first-rate Botanist, as you probably know). It seems to me rather strange; + he assumes the permanence of monsters, whereas, monsters are generally + sterile, and not often inheritable. But grant his case, it comes that I + have been too cautious in not admitting great and sudden variations. Here + again comes in the mischief of my ABSTRACT. In the fuller MS. I have + discussed a parallel case of a normal fish like the monstrous gold-fish." + </p> + <p> + With reference to Sir J.D. Hooker's reply, my father wrote:] + </p> + <p> + Down, [February 26th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Your answer to Harvey seems to me ADMIRABLY good. You would have made a + gigantic fortune as a barrister. What an omission of Harvey's about the + graduated state of the flowers! But what strikes me most is that surely I + ought to know my own book best, yet, by Jove, you have brought forward + ever so many arguments which I did not think of! Your reference to + classification (viz. I presume to such cases as Aspicarpa) is EXCELLENT, + for the monstrous Begonia no doubt in all details would be Begonia. I did + not think of this, nor of the RETROGRADE step from separated sexes to an + hermaphrodite state; nor of the lessened fertility of the monster. Proh + pudor to me. + </p> + <p> + The world would say what a lawyer has been lost in a MERE botanist! + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my dear master in my own subject, + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I am so heartily pleased to see that you approve of the chapter on + Classification. + </p> + <p> + I wonder what Harvey will say. But no one hardly, I think, is able at + first to see when he is beaten in an argument. + </p> + <p> + [The following letters refer to the first translation (1860) of the + 'Origin of Species' into German, which was superintended by H.G. Bronn, a + good zoologist and palaeontologist, who was at the time at Freiburg, but + afterwards Professor at Heidelberg. I have been told that the translation + was not a success, it remained an obvious translation, and was + correspondingly unpleasant to read. Bronn added to the translation an + appendix of the difficulties that occurred to him. For instance, how can + natural selection account for differences between species, when these + differences appear to be of no service to their possessors; e.g., the + length of the ears and tail, or the folds in the enamel of the teeth of + various species of rodents? Krause, in his book, 'Charles Darwin,' page + 91, criticises Bronn's conduct in this manner, but it will be seen that my + father actually suggested the addition of Bronn's remarks. A more serious + charge against Bronn made by Krause (op. cit. page 87) is that he left out + passages of which he did not approve, as, for instance, the passage + ('Origin,' first edition, page 488) "Light will be thrown on the origin of + man and his history." I have no evidence as to whether my father did or + did not know of these alterations.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.G. BRONN. Down, February 4 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + Dear and much honoured Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for your most kind letter; I feared that you would + much disapprove of the 'Origin,' and I sent it to you merely as a mark of + my sincere respect. I shall read with much interest your work on the + productions of Islands whenever I receive it. I thank you cordially for + the notice in the 'Neues Jahrbuch fur Mineralogie,' and still more for + speaking to Schweitzerbart about a translation; for I am most anxious that + the great and intellectual German people should know something about my + book. + </p> + <p> + I have told my publisher to send immediately a copy of the NEW (Second + edition.) edition to Schweitzerbart, and I have written to Schweitzerbart + that I gave up all right to profit for myself, so that I hope a + translation will appear. I fear that the book will be difficult to + translate, and if you could advise Schweitzerbart about a GOOD translator, + it would be of very great service. Still more, if you would run your eye + over the more difficult parts of the translation; but this is too great a + favour to expect. I feel sure that it will be difficult to translate, from + being so much condensed. + </p> + <p> + Again I thank you for your noble and generous sympathy, and I remain, with + entire respect, + </p> + <p> + Yours, truly obliged, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—The new edition has some few corrections, and I will send in + MS. some additional corrections, and a short historical preface, to + Schweitzerbart. + </p> + <p> + How interesting you could make the work by EDITING (I do not mean + translating) the work, and appending notes of REFUTATION or confirmation. + The book has sold so very largely in England, that an editor would, I + think, make profit by the translation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.G. BRONN. Down, February 14 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear and much honoured Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you cordially for your extreme kindness in superintending the + translation. I have mentioned this to some eminent scientific men, and + they all agree that you have done a noble and generous service. If I am + proved quite wrong, yet I comfort myself in thinking that my book may do + some good, as truth can only be known by rising victorious from every + attack. I thank you also much for the review, and for the kind manner in + which you speak of me. I send with this letter some corrections and + additions to M. Schweitzerbart, and a short historical preface. I am not + much acquainted with German authors, as I read German very slowly; + therefore I do not know whether any Germans have advocated similar views + with mine; if they have, would you do me the favour to insert a foot-note + to the preface? M. Schweitzerbart has now the reprint ready for a + translator to begin. Several scientific men have thought the term "Natural + Selection" good, because its meaning is NOT obvious, and each man could + not put on it his own interpretation, and because it at once connects + variation under domestication and nature. Is there any analogous term used + by German breeders of animals? "Adelung," ennobling, would, perhaps, be + too metaphysical. It is folly in me, but I cannot help doubting whether + "Wahl der Lebensweise" expresses my notion. It leaves the impression on my + mind of the Lamarckian doctrine (which I reject) of habits of life being + al-important. Man has altered, and thus improved the English race-horse by + SELECTING successive fleeter individuals; and I believe, owing to the + struggle for existence, that similar SLIGHT variations in a wild horse, IF + ADVANTAGEOUS TO IT, would be SELECTED or PRESERVED by nature; hence + Natural Selection. But I apologise for troubling you with these remarks on + the importance of choosing good German terms for "Natural Selection." With + my heartfelt thanks, and with sincere respect, + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Sir, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.G. BRONN. Down, July 14 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + Dear and honoured Sir, + </p> + <p> + On my return home, after an absence of some time, I found the translation + of the third part (The German translation was published in three + pamphle-like numbers.) of the 'Origin,' and I have been delighted to see a + final chapter of criticisms by yourself. I have read the first few + paragraphs and final paragraph, and am perfectly contented, indeed more + than contented, with the generous and candid spirit with which you have + considered my views. You speak with too much praise of my work. I shall, + of course, carefully read the whole chapter; but though I can read + descriptive books like Gaertner's pretty easily, when any reasoning comes + in, I find German excessively difficult to understand. At some FUTURE time + I should very much like to hear how my book has been received in Germany, + and I most sincerely hope M. Schweitzerbart will not lose money by the + publication. Most of the reviews have been bitterly opposed to me in + England, yet I have made some converts, and SEVERAL naturalists who would + not believe in a word of it, are now coming slightly round, and admit that + natural selection may have done something. This gives me hope that more + will ultimately come round to a certain extent to my views. + </p> + <p> + I shall ever consider myself deeply indebted to you for the immense + service and honour which you have conferred on me in making the excellent + translation of my book. Pray believe me, with most sincere respect, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, yours gratefully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, [February 12th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I think it was a great pity that Huxley wasted so much time in the + lecture on the preliminary remarks;... but his lecture seemed to me very + fine and very bold. I have remonstrated (and he agrees) against the + impression that he would leave, that sterility was a universal and + infallible criterion of species. + </p> + <p> + You will, I am sure, make a grand discussion on man. I am so glad to hear + that you and Lady Lyell will come here. Pray fix your own time; and if it + did not suit us we would say so. We could then discuss man well... + </p> + <p> + How much I owe to you and Hooker! I do not suppose I should hardly ever + have published had it not been for you. + </p> + <p> + [The lecture referred to in the last letter was given at the Royal + Institution, February 10, 1860. The following letter was written in reply + to Mr. Huxley's request for information about breeding, hybridisation, + etc. It is of interest as giving a vivid retrospect of the writer's + experience on the subject.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Ilkley, Yorks, November 27 + [1859]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Gartner grand, Kolreuter grand, but papers scattered through many volumes + and very lengthy. I had to make an abstract of the whole. Herbert's volume + on Amaryllidaceae very good, and two excellent papers in the + 'Horticultural Journal.' For animals, no resume to be trusted at all; + facts are to be collected from all original sources. (This caution is + exemplified in the following extract from an earlier letter to Professor + Huxley:—"The inaccuracy of the blessed gang (of which I am one) of + compilers passes all bounds. MONSTERS have frequently been described as + hybrids without a tittle of evidence. I must give one other case to show + how we jolly fellows work. A Belgian Baron (I forget his name at this + moment) crossed two distinct geese and got SEVEN hybrids, which he proved + subsequently to be quite sterile; well, compiler the first, Chevreul, says + that the hybrids were propagated for SEVEN generations inter se. Compiler + second (Morton) mistakes the French name, and gives Latin names for two + more distinct geese, and says CHEVREUL himself propagated them inter se + for seven generations; and the latter statement is copied from book to + book.") I fear my MS. for the bigger book (twice or thrice as long as in + present book), with all references, would be illegible, but it would save + you infinite labour; of course I would gladly lend it, but I have no copy, + so care would have to be taken of it. But my accursed handwriting would be + fatal, I fear. + </p> + <p> + About breeding, I know of no one book. I did not think well of Lowe, but I + can name none better. Youatt I look at as a far better and MORE PRACTICAL + authority; but then his views and facts are scattered through three or + four thick volumes. I have picked up most by reading really numberless + special treatises and ALL agricultural and horticultural journals; but it + is a work of long years. THE DIFFICULTY IS TO KNOW WHAT TO TRUST. No one + or two statements are worth a farthing; the facts are so complicated. I + hope and think I have been really cautious in what I state on this + subject, although all that I have given, as yet, is FAR too briefly. I + have found it very important associating with fanciers and breeders. For + instance, I sat one evening in a gin palace in the Borough amongst a set + of pigeon fanciers, when it was hinted that Mr. Bull had crossed his + Pouters with Runts to gain size; and if you had seen the solemn, the + mysterious, and awful shakes of the head which all the fanciers gave at + this scandalous proceeding, you would have recognised how little crossing + has had to do with improving breeds, and how dangerous for endless + generations the process was. All this was brought home far more vividly + than by pages of mere statements, etc. But I am scribbling foolishly. I + really do not know how to advise about getting up facts on breeding and + improving breeds. Go to Shows is one way. Read ALL treatises on any ONE + domestic animal, and believe nothing without largely confirmed. For your + lectures I can give you a few amusing anecdotes and sentences, if you want + to make the audience laugh. + </p> + <p> + I thank you particularly for telling me what naturalists think. If we can + once make a compact set of believers we shall in time conquer. I am + EMINENTLY glad Ramsey is on our side, for he is, in my opinion, a + firs-rate geologist. I sent him a copy. I hope he got it. I shall be very + curious to hear whether any effect has been produced on Prestwich; I sent + him a copy, not as a friend, but owing to a sentence or two in some paper, + which made me suspect he was doubting. + </p> + <p> + Rev. C. Kingsley has a mind to come round. Quatrefages writes that he goes + some long way with me; says he exhibited diagrams like mine. With most + hearty thanks, + </p> + <p> + Yours very tired, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [I give the conclusion of Professor Huxley's lecture, as being one of the + earliest, as well as one of the most eloquent of his utterances in support + of the 'Origin of Species']: + </p> + <p> + "I have said that the man of science is the sworn interpreter of nature in + the high court of reason. But of what avail is his honest speech, if + ignorance is the assessor of the judge, and prejudice the foreman of the + jury? I hardly know of a great physical truth, whose universal reception + has not been preceded by an epoch in which most estimable persons have + maintained that the phenomena investigated were directly dependent on the + Divine Will, and that the attempt to investigate them was not only futile, + but blasphemous. And there is a wonderful tenacity of life about this sort + of opposition to physical science. Crushed and maimed in every battle, it + yet seems never to be slain; and after a hundred defeats it is at this day + as rampant, though happily not so mischievous, as in the time of Galileo. + </p> + <p> + "But to those whose life is spent, to use Newton's noble words, in picking + up here a pebble and there a pebble on the shores of the great ocean of + truth—who watch, day by day, the slow but sure advance of that + mighty tide, bearing on its bosom the thousand treasures wherewith man + ennobles and beautifies his life—it would be laughable, if it were + not so sad, to see the little Canutes of the hour enthroned in solemn + state, bidding that great wave to stay, and threatening to check its + beneficent progress. The wave rises and they fly; but, unlike the brave + old Dane, they learn no lesson of humility: the throne is pitched at what + seems a safe distance, and the folly is repeated. + </p> + <p> + "Surely it is the duty of the public to discourage anything of this kind, + to discredit these foolish meddlers who think they do the Almighty a + service by preventing a thorough study of His works. + </p> + <p> + "The Origin of Species is not the first, and it will not be the last, of + the great questions born of science, which will demand settlement from + this generation. The general mind is seething strangely, and to those who + watch the signs of the times, it seems plain that this nineteenth century + will see revolutions of thought and practice as great as those which the + sixteenth witnessed. Through what trials and sore contests the civilised + world will have to pass in the course of this new reformation, who can + tell? + </p> + <p> + "But I verily believe that come what will, the part which England may play + in the battle is a grand and a noble one. She may prove to the world that, + for one people, at any rate, despotism and demagogy are not the necessary + alternatives of government; that freedom and order are not incompatible; + that reverence is the handmaid of knowledge; that free discussion is the + life of truth, and of true unity in a nation. + </p> + <p> + "Will England play this part? That depends upon how you, the public, deal + with science. Cherish her, venerate her, follow her methods faithfully and + implicitly in their application to all branches of human thought, and the + future of this people will be greater than the past. + </p> + <p> + "Listen to those who would silence and crush her, and I fear our children + will see the glory of England vanishing like Arthur in the mist; they will + cry too late the woful cry of Guinever:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'It was my duty to have loved the highest; + It surely was my profit had I known; + It would have been my pleasure had I seen.'"] +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down [February 15th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am perfectly convinced (having read this morning) that the review in + the 'Annals' (Annals and Mag. of Nat. Hist. third series, vol. 5, page + 132. My father has obviously taken the expression "pestilent" from the + following passage (page 138): "But who is this Nature, we have a right to + ask, who has such tremendous power, and to whose efficiency such + marvellous performances are ascribed? What are her image and attributes, + when dragged from her wordy lurking-place? Is she aught but a pestilent + abstraction, like dust cast in our eyes to obscure the workings of an + Intelligent First Cause of all?" The reviewer pays a tribute to my + father's candour, "so manly and outspoken as almost to 'cover a multitude + of sins.'" The parentheses (to which allusion is made above) are so + frequent as to give a characteristic appearance to Mr. Wollaston's pages.) + is by Wollaston; no one else in the world would have used so many + parentheses. I have written to him, and told him that the "pestilent" + fellow thanks him for his kind manner of speaking about him. I have also + told him that he would be pleased to hear that the Bishop of Oxford says + it is the most unphilosophical (Another version of the words is given by + Lyell, to whom they were spoken, viz. "the most illogical book ever + written."—'Life,' volume ii. page 358.) work he ever read. The + review seems to me clever, and only misinterprets me in a few places. Like + all hostile men, he passes over the explanation given of Classification, + Morphology, Embryology, and Rudimentary Organs, etc. I read Wallace's + paper in MS. ("On the Zoological Geography of the Malay Archipelago."—Linn. + Soc. Journ. 1860.), and thought it admirably good; he does not know that + he has been anticipated about the depth of intervening sea determining + distribution... The most curious point in the paper seems to me that about + the African character of the Celebes productions, but I should require + further confirmation... + </p> + <p> + Henslow is staying here; I have had some talk with him; he is in much the + same state as Bunbury (The late Sir Charles Bunbury, well-known as a + Palaeo-botanist.), and will go a very little way with us, but brings up no + real argument against going further. He also shudders at the eye! It is + really curious (and perhaps is an argument in our favour) how differently + different opposers view the subject. Henslow used to rest his opposition + on the imperfection of the Geological Record, but he now thinks nothing of + this, and says I have got well out of it; I wish I could quite agree with + him. Baden Powell says he never read anything so conclusive as my + statement about the eye!! A stranger writes to me about sexual selection, + and regrets that I boggle about such a trifle as the brush of hair on the + male turkey, and so on. As L. Jenyns has a really philosophical mind, and + as you say you like to see everything, I send an old letter of his. In a + later letter to Henslow, which I have seen, he is more candid than any + opposer I have heard of, for he says, though he CANNOT go so far as I do, + yet he can give no good reason why he should not. It is funny how each man + draws his own imaginary line at which to halt. It reminds me so vividly + what I was told (By Professor Henslow.) about you when I first commenced + geology—to believe a LITTLE, but on no account to believe all. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, February 18th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I received about a week ago two sheets of your Review (The 'American + Journal of Science and Arts,' March, 1860. Reprinted in 'Darwiniana,' + 1876.); read them, and sent them to Hooker; they are now returned and + r-read with care, and to-morrow I send them to Lyell. Your Review seems to + me ADMIRABLE; by far the best which I have read. I thank you from my heart + both for myself, but far more for the subject's sake. Your contrast + between the views of Agassiz and such as mine is very curious and + instructive. (The contrast is briefly summed up thus: "The theory of + Agassiz regards the origin of species and their present general + distribution over the world as equally primordial, equally supernatural; + that of Darwin as equally derivative, equally natural."—'Darwiniana,' + page 14.) By the way, if Agassiz writes anything on the subject, I hope + you will tell me. I am charmed with your metaphor of the streamlet never + running against the force of gravitation. Your distinction between an + hypothesis and theory seems to me very ingenious; but I do not think it is + ever followed. Every one now speaks of the undulatory THEORY of light; yet + the ether is itself hypothetical, and the undulations are inferred only + from explaining the phenomena of light. Even in the THEORY of gravitation + is the attractive power in any way known, except by explaining the fall of + the apple, and the movements of the Planets? It seems to me that an + hypothesis is DEVELOPED into a theory solely by explaining an ample lot of + facts. Again and again I thank you for your generous aid in discussing a + view, about which you very properly hold yourself unbiassed. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, yours most sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Several clergymen go far with me. Rev. L. Jenyns, a very good + naturalist. Henslow will go a very little way with me, and is not shocked + with me. He has just been visiting me. + </p> + <p> + [With regard to the attitude of the more liberal representatives of the + Church, the following letter (already referred to) from Charles Kingsley + is of interest:] + </p> + <p> + C. KINGSLEY TO CHARLES DARWIN. Eversley Rectory, Winchfield, November + 18th, 1859. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have to thank you for the unexpected honour of your book. That the + Naturalist whom, of all naturalists living, I most wish to know and to + learn from, should have sent a scientist like me his book, encourages me + at least to observe more carefully, and perhaps more slowly. + </p> + <p> + I am so poorly (in brain), that I fear I cannot read your book just now as + I ought. All I have seen of it AWES me; both with the heap of facts and + the prestige of your name, and also with the clear intuition, that if you + be right, I must give up much that I have believed and written. + </p> + <p> + In that I care little. Let God be true, and every man a liar! Let us know + what IS, and, as old Socrates has it, epesthai to logo—follow up the + villainous shifty fox of an argument, into whatsoever unexpected bogs and + brakes he may lead us, if we do but run into him at last. + </p> + <p> + From two common superstitions, at least, I shall be free while judging of + your books:— + </p> + <p> + 1. I have long since, from watching the crossing of domesticated animals + and plants, learnt to disbelieve the dogma of the permanence of species. + </p> + <p> + 2. I have gradually learnt to see that it is just as noble a conception of + Deity, to believe that he created primal forms capable of self development + into all forms needful pro tempore and pro loco, as to believe that He + required a fresh act of intervention to supply the lacunas which He + Himself had made. I question whether the former be not the loftier + thought. + </p> + <p> + Be it as it may, I shall prize your book, both for itself, and as a proof + that you are aware of the existence of such a person as + </p> + <p> + Your faithful servant, C. KINGSLEY. + </p> + <p> + [My father's old friend, the Rev. J. Brodie Innes, of Milton Brodie, who + was for many years Vicar of Down, writes in the same spirit: + </p> + <p> + "We never attacked each other. Before I knew Mr. Darwin I had adopted, and + publicly expressed, the principle that the study of natural history, + geology, and science in general, should be pursued without reference to + the Bible. That the Book of Nature and Scripture came from the same Divine + source, ran in parallel lines, and when properly understood would never + cross... + </p> + <p> + "His views on this subject were very much to the same effect from his + side. Of course any conversations we may have had on purely religious + subjects are as sacredly private now as in his life; but the quaint + conclusion of one may be given. We had been speaking of the apparent + contradiction of some supposed discoveries with the Book of Genesis; he + said, 'you are (it would have been more correct to say you ought to be) a + theologian, I am a naturalist, the lines are separate. I endeavour to + discover facts without considering what is said in the Book of Genesis. I + do not attack Moses, and I think Moses can take care of himself.' To the + same effect he wrote more recently, 'I cannot remember that I ever + published a word directly against religion or the clergy; but if you were + to read a little pamphlet which I received a couple of days ago by a + clergyman, you would laugh, and admit that I had some excuse for + bitterness. After abusing me for two or three pages, in language + sufficiently plain and emphatic to have satisfied any reasonable man, he + sums up by saying that he has vainly searched the English language to find + terms to express his contempt for me and all Darwinians.' In another + letter, after I had left Down, he writes, 'We often differed, but you are + one of those rare mortals from whom one can differ and yet feel no shade + of animosity, and that is a thing [of] which I should feel very proud, if + any one could say [it] of me.' + </p> + <p> + "On my last visit to Down, Mr. Darwin said, at his dinner-table, 'Brodie + Innes and I have been fast friends for thirty years, and we never + thoroughly agreed on any subject but once, and then we stared hard at each + other, and thought one of us must be very ill.'"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, February 23rd [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + That is a splendid answer of the father of Judge Crompton. How curious + that the Judge should have hit on exactly the same points as yourself. It + shows me what a capital lawyer you would have made, how many unjust acts + you would have made appear just! But how much grander a field has science + been than the law, though the latter might have made you Lord Kinnordy. I + will, if there be another edition, enlarge on gradation in the eye, and on + all forms coming from one prototype, so as to try and make both less + glaringly improbable... + </p> + <p> + With respect to Bronn's objection that it cannot be shown how life arises, + and likewise to a certain extent Asa Gray's remark that natural selection + is not a vera causa, I was much interested by finding accidentally in + Brewster's 'Life of Newton,' that Leibnitz objected to the law of gravity + because Newton could not show what gravity itself is. As it has chanced, I + have used in letters this very same argument, little knowing that any one + had really thus objected to the law of gravity. Newton answers by saying + that it is philosophy to make out the movements of a clock, though you do + not know why the weight descends to the ground. Leibnitz further objected + that the law of gravity was opposed to Natural Religion! Is this not + curious? I really think I shall use the facts for some introductory + remarks for my bigger book. + </p> + <p> + ... You ask (I see) why we do not have monstrosities in higher animals; + but when they live they are almost always sterile (even giants and dwarfs + are GENERALLY sterile), and we do not know that Harvey's monster would + have bred. There is I believe only one case on record of a peloric flower + being fertile, and I cannot remember whether this reproduced itself. + </p> + <p> + To recur to the eye. I really think it would have been dishonest, not to + have faced the difficulty; and worse (as Talleyrand would have said), it + would have been impolitic I think, for it would have been thrown in my + teeth, as H. Holland threw the bones of the ear, till Huxley shut him up + by showing what a fine gradation occurred amongst living creatures. + </p> + <p> + I thank you much for your most pleasant letter. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I send a letter by Herbert Spencer, which you can read or not + as you think fit. He puts, to my mind, the philosophy of the argument + better than almost any one, at the close of the letter. I could make + nothing of Dana's idealistic notions about species; but then, as Wollaston + says, I have not a metaphysical head. + </p> + <p> + By the way, I have thrown at Wollaston's head, a paper by Alexander + Jordan, who demonstrates metaphysically that all our cultivated races are + Go-created species. + </p> + <p> + Wollaston misrepresents accidentally, to a wonderful extent, some passages + in my book. He reviewed, without relooking at certain passages. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, February 25th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I cannot help wondering at your zeal about my book. I declare to + heaven you seem to care as much about my book as I do myself. You have no + right to be so eminently unselfish! I have taken off my spit [i.e. file] a + letter of Ramsay's, as every geologist convert I think very important. By + the way, I saw some time ago a letter from H.D. Rogers (Professor of + Geology in the University of Glasgow. Born in the United States 1809, died + 1866.) to Huxley, in which he goes very far with us... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, Saturday, March 3rd, + [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + What a day's work you had on that Thursday! I was not able to go to London + till Monday, and then I was a fool for going, for, on Tuesday night, I had + an attack of fever (with a touch of pleurisy), which came on like a lion, + but went off as a lamb, but has shattered me a good bit. + </p> + <p> + I was much interested by your last note... I think you expect too much in + regard to change of opinion on the subject of Species. One large class of + men, more especially I suspect of naturalists, never will care about ANY + general question, of which old Gray, of the British Museum, may be taken + as a type; and secondly, nearly all men past a moderate age, either in + actual years or in mind, are, I am fully convinced, incapable of looking + at facts under a new point of view. Seriously, I am astonished and + rejoiced at the progress which the subject has made; look at the enclosed + memorandum. (See table of names below.) — says my book will be + forgotten in ten years, perhaps so; but, with such a list, I feel + convinced the subject will not. The outsiders, as you say, are strong. + </p> + <p> + You say that you think that Bentham is touched, "but, like a wise man, + holds his tongue." Perhaps you only mean that he cannot decide, otherwise + I should think such silence the reverse of magnanimity; for if others + behaved the same way, how would opinion ever progress? It is a dereliction + of actual duty. (In a subsequent letter to Sir J.D. Hooker (March 12th, + 1860), my father wrote, "I now quite understand Bentham's silence.") + </p> + <p> + I am so glad to hear about Thwaites. (Dr. G.J.K. Thwaites, who was born in + 1811, established a reputation in this country as an expert microscopist, + and an acute observer, working especially at cryptogamic botany. On his + appointment as Director of the Botanic Gardens at Peradenyia, Ceylon, Dr. + Thwaites devoted himself to the flora of Ceylon. As a result of this he + has left numerous and valuable collections, a description of which he + embodied in his 'Enumeratio Plantarum Zeylaniae' (1864). Dr. Thwaites was + a fellow of the Linnean Society, but beyond the above facts little seems + to have been recorded of his life. His death occurred in Ceylon on + September 11th, 1882, in his seventy-second year. "Athenaeum", October + 14th, 1882, page 500.)... I have had an astounding letter from Dr. Boott + (The letter is enthusiastically laudatory, and obviously full of genuine + feeling.); it might be turned into ridicule against him and me, so I will + not send it to any one. He writes in a noble spirit of love of truth. + </p> + <p> + I wonder what Lindley thinks; probably too busy to read or think on the + question. + </p> + <p> + I am vexed about Bentham's reticence, for it would have been of real value + to know what parts appeared weakest to a man of his powers of observation. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my dear Hooker, yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Is not Harvey in the class of men who do not at all care for + generalities? I remember your saying you could not get him to write on + Distribution. I have found his works very unfruitful in every respect. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Here follows the memorandum referred to:] + + Geologists. Zoologists and Physiologists. Botanists. + Palaeontologists. + + Lyell. Huxley. Carpenter. Hooker. + + Ramsay.* J. Lubbock. Sir H. Holland H.C. Watson. + (to large extent). + + Jukes.* L. Jenyns Asa Gray + (to large extent). (to some extent). + + H.D. Rogers. Searles Wood.* Dr. Boott + (to large extent). + + Thwaites. + + (*Andrew Ramsay, late Director-General of the Geological Survey. +</pre> + <p> + Joseph Beete Jukes, M.A., F.R.S., 1811-1869. He was educated at Cambridge, + and from 1842 to 1846 he acted as naturalist to H.M.S. "Fly", on an + exploring expedition in Australia and New Guinea. He was afterwards + appointed Director of the Geological Survey of Ireland. He was the author + of many papers, and of more than one good hand-book of geology. + </p> + <p> + Searles Valentine Wood, February 14, 1798-1880. Chiefly known for his work + on the Mollusca of the 'Crag.') + </p> + <p> + [The following letter is of interest in connection with the mention of Mr. + Bentham in the last letter:] + </p> + <p> + G. BENTHAM TO FRANCIS DARWIN. 25 Wilton Place, S.W., May 30th, 1882. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + In compliance with your note which I received last night, I send herewith + the letters I have from your father. I should have done so on seeing the + general request published in the papers, but that I did not think there + were any among them which could be of any use to you. Highly flattered as + I was by the kind and friendly notice with which Mr. Darwin occasionally + honoured me, I was never admitted into his intimacy, and he therefore + never made any communications to me in relation to his views and labours. + I have been throughout one of his most sincere admirers, and fully adopted + his theories and conclusions, notwithstanding the severe pain and + disappointment they at first occasioned me. On the day that his celebrated + paper was read at the Linnean Society, July 1st, 1858, a long paper of + mine had been set down for reading, in which, in commenting on the British + Flora, I had collected a number of observations and facts illustrating + what I then believed to be a fixity in species, however difficult it might + be to assign their limits, and showing a tendency of abnormal forms + produced by cultivation or otherwise, to withdraw within those original + limits when left to themselves. Most fortunately my paper had to give way + to Mr. Darwin's and when once that was read, I felt bound to defer mine + for reconsideration; I began to entertain doubts on the subject, and on + the appearance of the 'Origin of Species,' I was forced, however + reluctantly, to give up my long-cherished convictions, the results of much + labour and study, and I cancelled all that part of my paper which urged + original fixity, and published only portions of the remainder in another + form, chiefly in the 'Natural History Review.' I have since acknowledged + on various occasions my full adoption of Mr. Darwin's views, and chiefly + in my Presidential Address of 1863, and in my thirteenth and last address, + issued in the form of a report to the British Association at its meeting + at Belfast in 1874. + </p> + <p> + I prize so highly the letters that I have of Mr. Darwin's, that I should + feel obliged by your returning them to me when you have done with them. + Unfortunately I have not kept the envelopes, and Mr. Darwin usually only + dated them by the month not by the year, so that they are not in any + chronological order. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, GEORGE BENTHAM. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down [March] 12th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Thinking over what we talked about, the high state of intellectual + development of the old Grecians with the little or no subsequent + improvement, being an apparent difficulty, it has just occurred to me that + in fact the case harmonises perfectly with our views. The case would be a + decided difficulty on the Lamarckian or Vestigian doctrine of necessary + progression, but on the view which I hold of progression depending on the + conditions, it is no objection at all, and harmonises with the other facts + of progression in the corporeal structure of other animals. For in a state + of anarchy, or despotism, or bad government, or after irruption of + barbarians, force, strength, or ferocity, and not intellect, would be apt + to gain the day. + </p> + <p> + We have so enjoyed your and Lady Lyell's visit. + </p> + <p> + Good-night. C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—By an odd chance (for I had not alluded even to the subject) + the ladies attacked me this evening, and threw the high state of old + Grecians into my teeth, as an unanswerable difficulty, but by good chance + I had my answer all pat, and silenced them. Hence I have thought it worth + scribbling to you... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. PRESTWICH. (Now Professor of Geology in the + University of Oxford.) Down, March 12th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... At some future time, when you have a little leisure, and when you have + read my 'Origin of Species,' I should esteem it a SINGULAR favour if you + would send me any general criticisms. I do not mean of unreasonable + length, but such as you could include in a letter. I have always admired + your various memoirs so much that I should be eminently glad to receive + your opinion, which might be of real service to me. + </p> + <p> + Pray do not suppose that I expect to CONVERT or PERVERT you; if I could + stagger you in ever so slight a degree I should be satisfied; nor fear to + annoy me by severe criticisms, for I have had some hearty kicks from some + of my best friends. If it would not be disagreeable to you to send me your + opinion, I certainly should be truly obliged... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, April 3rd [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I remember well the time when the thought of the eye made me cold all + over, but I have got over this stage of the complaint, and now small + trifling particulars of structure often make me very uncomfortable. The + sight of a feather in a peacock's tail, whenever I gaze at it, makes me + sick!... + </p> + <p> + You may like to hear about reviews on my book. Sedgwick (as I and Lyell + feel CERTAIN from internal evidence) has reviewed me savagely and unfairly + in the "Spectator". (See the quotations which follow the present letter.) + The notice includes much abuse, and is hardly fair in several respects. He + would actually lead any one, who was ignorant of geology, to suppose that + I had invented the great gaps between successive geological formations, + instead of its being an almost universally admitted dogma. But my dear old + friend Sedgwick, with his noble heart, is old, and is rabid with + indignation. It is hard to please every one; you may remember that in my + last letter I asked you to leave out about the Weald denudation: I told + Jukes this (who is head man of the Irish geological survey), and he blamed + me much, for he believed every word of it, and thought it not at all + exaggerated! In fact, geologists have no means of gauging the infinitude + of past time. There has been one prodigy of a review, namely, an OPPOSED + one (by Pictet (Francois Jules Pictet, in the 'Archives des Sciences de la + Bibliotheque Universelle,' Mars 1860. The article is written in a + courteous and considerate tone, and concludes by saying that the 'Origin' + will be of real value to naturalists, especially if they are not led away + by its seductive arguments to believe in the dangerous doctrine of + modification. A passage which seems to have struck my father as being + valuable, and opposite which he has made double pencil marks and written + the word "good," is worth quoting: "La theorie de M. Darwin s'accorde mal + avec l'histoire des types a formes bien tranchees et definies qui + paraissent n'avoir vecu que pendant un temps limite. On en pourrait citer + des centaines d'exemples, tel que les reptiles volants, les ichthyosaures, + les belemnites, les ammonites, etc." Pictet was born in 1809, died 1872; + he was Professor of Anatomy and Zoology at Geneva.), the palaeontologist, + in the Bib. Universelle of Geneva) which is PERFECTLY fair and just, and I + agree to every word he says; our only difference being that he attaches + less weight to arguments in favour, and more to arguments opposed, than I + do. Of all the opposed reviews, I think this the only quite fair one, and + I never expected to see one. Please observe that I do not class your + review by any means as opposed, though you think so yourself! It has done + me MUCH too good service ever to appear in that rank in my eyes. But I + fear I shall weary you with so much about my book. I should rather think + there was a good chance of my becoming the most egotistical man in all + Europe! What a proud pre-eminence! Well, you have helped to make me so and + therefore you must forgive me if you can. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, ever yours most gratefully, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In a letter to Sir Charles Lyell reference is made to Sedgwick's review + in the "Spectator", March 24: + </p> + <p> + "I now feel certain that Sedgwick is the author of the article in the + "Spectator". No one else could use such abusive terms. And what a + misrepresentation of my notions! Any ignoramus would suppose that I had + FIRST broached the doctrine, that the breaks between successive formations + marked long intervals of time. It is very unfair. But poor dear old + Sedgwick seems rabid on the question. "Demoralised understanding!" If ever + I talk with him I will tell him that I never could believe that an + inquisitor could be a good man: but now I know that a man may roast + another, and yet have as kind and noble a heart as Sedgwick's." + </p> + <p> + The following passages are taken from the review: + </p> + <p> + "I need hardly go on any further with these objections. But I cannot + conclude without expressing my detestation of the theory, because of its + unflinching materialism;—because it has deserted the inductive + track, the only track that leads to physical truth;—because it + utterly repudiates final causes, and thereby indicates a demoralised + understanding on the part of its advocates." + </p> + <p> + "Not that I believe that Darwin is an atheist; though I cannot but regard + his materialism as atheistical. I think it untrue, because opposed to the + obvious course of nature, and the very opposite of inductive truth. And I + think it intensely mischievous." + </p> + <p> + "Each series of facts is laced together by a series of assumptions, and + repetitions of the one false principle. You cannot make a good rope out of + a string of air bubbles." + </p> + <p> + "But any startling and (supposed) novel paradox, maintained very boldly + and with something of imposing plausibility, produces in some minds a kind + of pleasing excitement which predisposes them in its favour; and if they + are unused to careful reflection, and averse to the labour of accurate + investigation, they will be likely to conclude that what is (apparently) + ORIGINAL, must be a production of original GENIUS, and that anything very + much opposed to prevailing notions must be a grand DISCOVERY,—in + short, that whatever comes from the 'bottom of a well' must be the 'truth' + supposed to be hidden there." + </p> + <p> + In a review in the December number of 'Macmillan's Magazine,' 1860, + Fawcett vigorously defended my father from the charge of employing a false + method of reasoning; a charge which occurs in Sedgwick's review, and was + made at the time ad nauseam, in such phrases as: "This is not the true + Baconian method." Fawcett repeated his defence at the meeting of the + British Association in 1861. (See an interesting letter from my father in + Mr. Stephen's 'Life of Henry Fawcett,' 1886, page 101.)] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.B CARPENTER. Down, April 6th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Carpenter, + </p> + <p> + I have this minute finished your review in the 'Med. Chirurg. Review.' + (April 1860.) You must let me express my admiration at this most able + essay, and I hope to God it will be largely read, for it must produce a + great effect. I ought not, however, to express such warm admiration, for + you give my book, I fear, far too much praise. But you have gratified me + extremely; and though I hope I do not care very much for the approbation + of the non-scientific readers, I cannot say that this is at all so with + respect to such few men as yourself. I have not a criticism to make, for I + object to not a word; and I admire all, so that I cannot pick out one part + as better than the rest. It is all so well balanced. But it is impossible + not to be struck with your extent of knowledge in geology, botany, and + zoology. The extracts which you give from Hooker seem to me EXCELLENTLY + chosen, and most forcible. I am so much pleased in what you say also about + Lyell. In fact I am in a fit of enthusiasm, and had better write no more. + With cordial thanks, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, April 10th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Thank you much for your note of the 4th; I am very glad to hear that you + are at Torquay. I should have amused myself earlier by writing to you, but + I have had Hooker and Huxley staying here, and they have fully occupied my + time, as a little of anything is a full dose for me... There has been a + plethora of reviews, and I am really quite sick of myself. There is a very + long review by Carpenter in the 'Medical and Chirurg. Review,' very good + and well balanced, but not brilliant. He discusses Hooker's books at as + great length as mine, and makes excellent extracts; but I could not get + Hooker to feel the least interest in being praised. + </p> + <p> + Carpenter speaks of you in thoroughly proper terms. There is a BRILLIANT + review by Huxley ('Westminster Review,' April 1860.), with capital hits, + but I do not know that he much advances the subject. I THINK I have + convinced him that he has hardly allowed weight enough to the case of + varieties of plants being in some degrees sterile. + </p> + <p> + To diverge from reviews: Asa Gray sends me from Wyman (who will write), a + good case of all the pigs being black in the Everglades of Virginia. On + asking about the cause, it seems (I have got capital analogous cases) that + when the BLACK pigs eat a certain nut their bones become red, and they + suffer to a certain extent, but that the WHITE pigs lose their hoofs and + perish, "and we aid by SELECTION, for we kill most of the young white + pigs." This was said by men who could hardly read. By the way, it is a + great blow to me that you cannot admit the potency of natural selection. + The more I think of it, the less I doubt its power for great and small + changes. I have just read the 'Edinburgh' ('Edinburgh Review,' April + 1860.), which without doubt is by —. It is extremely malignant, + clever, and I fear will be very damaging. He is atrociously severe on + Huxley's lecture, and very bitter against Hooker. So we three ENJOYED it + together. Not that I really enjoyed it, for it made me uncomfortable for + one night; but I have got quite over it to-day. It requires much study to + appreciate all the bitter spite of many of the remarks against me; indeed + I did not discover all myself. It scandalously misrepresents many parts. + He misquotes some passages, altering words within inverted commas... + </p> + <p> + It is painful to be hated in the intense degree with which — hates + me. + </p> + <p> + Now for a curious thing about my book, and then I have done. In last + Saturday's "Gardeners' Chronicle" (April 7th, 1860.), a Mr. Patrick + Matthew publishes a long extract from his work on 'Naval Timber and + Arboriculture,' published in 1831, in which he briefly but completely + anticipates the theory of Natural Selection. I have ordered the book, as + some few passages are rather obscure, but it is certainly, I think, a + complete but not developed anticipation! Erasmus always said that surely + this would be shown to be the case some day. Anyhow, one may be excused in + not having discovered the fact in a work on Naval Timber. + </p> + <p> + I heartily hope that your Torquay work may be successful. Give my kindest + remembrances to Falconer, and I hope he is pretty well. Hooker and Huxley + (with Mrs. Huxley) were extremely pleasant. But poor dear Hooker is tired + to death of my book, and it is a marvel and a prodigy if you are not worse + tired—if that be possible. Farewell, my dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [April 13th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Questions of priority so often lead to odious quarrels, that I should + esteem it a great favour if you would read the enclosed. ((My father wrote + ("Gardeners' Chronicle", 1860, page 362, April 21st): "I have been much + interested by Mr. Patrick Matthew's communication in the number of your + paper dated April 7th. I freely acknowledge that Mr. Matthew has + anticipated by many years the explanation which I have offered of the + origin of species, under the name of natural selection. I think that no + one will feel surprised that neither I, nor apparently any other + naturalist, had heard of Mr. Matthew's views, considering how briefly they + are given, and that they appeared in the appendix to a work on Naval + Timber and Arboriculture. I can do no more than offer my apologies to Mr. + Matthew for my entire ignorance of this publication. If any other edition + of my work is called for, I will insert to the foregoing effect." In spite + of my father's recognition of his claims, Mr. Matthew remained + unsatisfied, and complained that an article in the 'Saturday Analyst and + Leader' was "scarcely fair in alluding to Mr. Darwin as the parent of the + origin of species, seeing that I published the whole that Mr. Darwin + attempts to prove, more than twenty-nine years ago."—"Saturday + Analyst and Leader", November 24, 1860.) If you think it proper that I + should send it (and of this there can hardly be any question), and if you + think it full and ample enough, please alter the date to the day on which + you post it, and let that be soon. The case in the "Gardeners' Chronicle" + seems a LITTLE stronger than in Mr. Matthew's book, for the passages are + therein scattered in three places; but it would be mere hair-splitting to + notice that. If you object to my letter, please return it; but I do not + expect that you will, but I thought that you would not object to run your + eye over it. My dear Hooker, it is a great thing for me to have so good, + true, and old a friend as you. I owe much for science to my friends. + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for Huxley's lecture. The latter part seemed to be grandly + eloquent. + </p> + <p> + ... I have gone over [the 'Edinburgh'] review again, and compared + passages, and I am astonished at the misrepresentations. But I am glad I + resolved not to answer. Perhaps it is selfish, but to answer and think + more on the subject is too unpleasant. I am so sorry that Huxley by my + means has been thus atrociously attacked. I do not suppose you much care + about the gratuitous attack on you. + </p> + <p> + Lyell in his letter remarked that you seemed to him as if you were + overworked. Do, pray, be cautious, and remember how many and many a man + has done this—who thought it absurd till too late. I have often + thought the same. You know that you were bad enough before your Indian + journey. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, April [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I was very glad to get your nice long letter from Torquay. A press of + letters prevented me writing to Wells. I was particularly glad to hear + what you thought about not noticing [the 'Edinburgh'] review. Hooker and + Huxley thought it a sort of duty to point out the alteration of quoted + citations, and there is truth in this remark; but I so hated the thought + that I resolved not to do so. I shall come up to London on Saturday the + 14th, for Sir B. Brodie's party, as I have an accumulation of things to do + in London, and will (if I do not hear to the contrary) call about a + quarter before ten on Sunday morning, and sit with you at breakfast, but + will not sit long, and so take up much of your time. I must say one more + word about our quasi-theological controversy about natural selection, and + let me have your opinion when we meet in London. Do you consider that the + successive variations in the size of the crop of the Pouter Pigeon, which + man has accumulated to please his caprice, have been due to "the creative + and sustaining powers of Brahma?" In the sense that an omnipotent and + omniscient Deity must order and know everything, this must be admitted; + yet, in honest truth, I can hardly admit it. It seems preposterous that a + maker of a universe should care about the crop of a pigeon solely to + please man's silly fancies. But if you agree with me in thinking such an + interposition of the Deity uncalled for, I can see no reason whatever for + believing in such interpositions in the case of natural beings, in which + strange and admirable peculiarities have been naturally selected for the + creature's own benefit. Imagine a Pouter in a state of nature wading into + the water and then, being buoyed up by its inflated crop, sailing about in + search of food. What admiration this would have excited—adaptation + to the laws of hydrostatic pressure, etc. etc. For the life of me I cannot + see any difficulty in natural selection producing the most exquisite + structure, IF SUCH STRUCTURE CAN BE ARRIVED AT BY GRADATION, and I know + from experience how hard it is to name any structure towards which at + least some gradations are not known. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—The conclusion at which I have come, as I have told Asa Gray, + is that such a question, as is touched on in this note, is beyond the + human intellect, like "predestination and free will," or the "origin of + evil." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [April 18th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I return —'s letter... Some of my relations say it cannot POSSIBLY + be —'s article (The 'Edinburgh Review.'), because the reviewer + speaks so very highly of —. Poor dear simple folk! My clever + neighbour, Mr. Norman, says the article is so badly written, with no + definite object, that no one will read it. Asa Gray has sent me an article + ('North American Review,' April, 1860. "By Professor Bowen," is written on + my father's copy. The passage referred to occurs at page 488, where the + author says that we ought to find "an infinite number of other varieties—gross, + rude, and purposeless—the unmeaning creations of an unconscious + cause.") from the United States, clever, and dead against me. But one + argument is funny. The reviewer says, that if the doctrine were true, + geological strata would be full of monsters which have failed! A very + clear view this writer had of the struggle for existence! + </p> + <p> + ... I am glad you like Adam Bede so much. I was charmed with it... + </p> + <p> + We think you must by mistake have taken with your own numbers of the + 'National Review' my precious number. (This no doubt refers to the January + number, containing Dr. Carpenter's review of the 'Origin.') I wish you + would look. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, April 25th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have no doubt I have to thank you for the copy of a review on the + 'Origin' in the 'North American Review.' It seems to me clever, and I do + not doubt will damage my book. I had meant to have made some remarks on + it; but Lyell wished much to keep it, and my head is quite confused + between the many reviews which I have lately read. I am sure the reviewer + is wrong about bees' cells, i.e. about the distance; any lesser distance + would do, or even greater distance, but then some of the places would lie + outside the generative spheres; but this would not add much difficulty to + the work. The reviewer takes a strange view of instinct: he seems to + regard intelligence as a developed instinct; which I believe to be wholly + false. I suspect he has never much attended to instinct and the minds of + animals, except perhaps by reading. + </p> + <p> + My chief object is to ask you if you could procure for me a copy of the + "New York Times" for Wednesday, March 28th. It contains A VERY STRIKING + review of my book, which I should much like to keep. How curious that the + two most striking reviews (i.e. yours and this) should have appeared in + America. This review is not really useful, but somehow is impressive. + There was a good review in the 'Revue des Deux Mondes,' April 1st, by M. + Laugel, said to be a very clever man. + </p> + <p> + Hooker, about a fortnight ago, stayed here a few days, and was very + pleasant; but I think he overworks himself. What a gigantic undertaking, I + imagine, his and Bentham's 'Genera Plantarum' will be! I hope he will not + get too much immersed in it, so as not to spare some time for Geographical + Distribution and other such questions. + </p> + <p> + I have begun to work steadily, but very slowly as usual, at details on + variation under domestication. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, Yours always truly and gratefully, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, [May 8th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have sent for the 'Canadian Naturalist.' If I cannot procure a copy + I will borrow yours. I had a letter from Henslow this morning, who says + that Sedgwick was, on last Monday night, to open a battery on me at the + Cambridge Philosophical Society. Anyhow, I am much honoured by being + attacked there, and at the Royal Society of Edinburgh. + </p> + <p> + I do not think it worth while to contradict single cases nor is it worth + while arguing against those who do not attend to what I state. A moment's + reflection will show you that there must be (on our doctrine) large genera + not varying (see page 56 on the subject, in the second edition of the + 'Origin'). Though I do not there discuss the case in detail. + </p> + <p> + It may be sheer bigotry for my own notions, but I prefer to the Atlantis, + my notion of plants and animals having migrated from the Old to the New + World, or conversely, when the climate was much hotter, by approximately + the line of Behring's Straits. It is most important, as you say, to see + living forms of plants going back so far in time. I wonder whether we + shall ever discover the flora of the dry land of the coal period, and find + it not so anomalous as the swamp or coal-making flora. I am working away + over the blessed Pigeon Manuscript; but, from one cause or another, I get + on very slowly... + </p> + <p> + This morning I got a letter from the Academy of Natural Sciences of + Philadelphia, announcing that I am elected a correspondent... It shows + that some Naturalists there do not think me such a scientific profligate + as many think me here. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, yours gratefully, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—What a grand fact about the extinct stag's horn worked by man! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [May 13th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I return Henslow, which I was very glad to see. How good of him to defend + me. (Against Sedgwick's attack before the Cambridge Philosophical + Society.) I will write and thank him. + </p> + <p> + As you said you were curious to hear Thomson's (Dr. Thomas Thomson the + Indian Botanist. He was a collaborateur in Hooker and Thomson's Flora + Indica. 1855.) opinion, I send his kind letter. He is evidently a strong + opposer to us... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [May 15th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... How paltry it is in such men as X, Y and Co. not reading your essay. + It is incredibly paltry. (These remarks do not apply to Dr. Harvey, who + was, however, in a somewhat similar position. See below.) They may all + attack me to their hearts' content. I am got case-hardened. As for the old + fogies in Cambridge, it really signifies nothing. I look at their attacks + as a proof that our work is worth the doing. It makes me resolve to buckle + on my armour. I see plainly that it will be a long uphill fight. But think + of Lyell's progress with Geology. One thing I see most plainly, that + without Lyell's, yours, Huxley's and Carpenter's aid, my book would have + been a mere flash in the pan. But if we all stick to it, we shall surely + gain the day. And I now see that the battle is worth fighting. I deeply + hope that you think so. Does Bentham progress at all? I do not know what + to say about Oxford. (His health prevented him from going to Oxford for + the meeting of the British Association.) I should like it much with you, + but it must depend on health... + </p> + <p> + Yours must affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, May 18th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I send a letter from Asa Gray to show how hotly the battle rages there. + Also one from Wallace, very just in his remarks, though too laudatory and + too modest, and how admirably free from envy or jealousy. He must be a + good fellow. Perhaps I will enclose a letter from Thomson of Calcutta; not + that it is much, but Hooker thinks so highly of him... + </p> + <p> + Henslow informs me that Sedgwick (Sedgwick's address is given somewhat + abbreviated in "The Cambridge Chronicle", May 19th, 1860.) and then + Professor Clarke [sic] (The late William Clark, Professor of Anatomy, my + father seems to have misunderstood his informant. I am assured by Mr. J.W. + Clark that his father (Prof. Clark) did not support Sedgwick in the + attack.) made a regular and savage onslaught on my book lately at the + Cambridge Philosophical Society, but Henslow seems to have defended me + well, and maintained that the subject was a legitimate one for + investigation. Since then Phillips (John Phillips, M.A., F.R.S., born + 1800, died 1874, from the effects of a fall. Professor of Geology at + King's College, London, and afterwards at Oxford. He gave the 'Rede' + lecture at Cambridge on May 15th, 1860, on 'The Succession of Life on the + earth.' The Rede Lecturer is appointed annually by the Vice-Chancellor, + and is paid by an endowment left in 1524 by Sir Robert Rede, Lord Chief + Justice, in the reign of Henry VIII.) has given lectures at Cambridge on + the same subject, but treated it very fairly. How splendidly Asa Gray is + fighting the battle. The effect on me of these multiplied attacks is + simply to show me that the subject is worth fighting for, and assuredly I + will do my best... I hope all the attacks make you keep up your courage, + and courage you assuredly will require... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, May 18th, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I received this morning your letter from Amboyna, dated February 16th, + containing some remarks and your too high approval of my book. Your letter + has pleased me very much, and I most completely agree with you on the + parts which are strongest and which are weakest. The imperfection of the + Geological Record is, as you say, the weakest of all; but yet I am pleased + to find that there are almost more geological converts than of pursuers of + other branches of natural science... I think geologists are more easily + converted than simple naturalists, because more accustomed to reasoning. + Before telling you about the progress of opinion on the subject, you must + let me say how I admire the generous manner in which you speak of my book. + Most persons would in your position have felt some envy or jealousy. How + nobly free you seem to be of this common failing of mankind. But you speak + far too modestly of yourself. You would, if you had my leisure, have done + the work just as well, perhaps better, than I have done it... + </p> + <p> + ... Agassiz sends me a personal civil message, but incessantly attacks me; + but Asa Gray fights like a hero in defence. Lyell keeps as firm as a + tower, and this Autumn will publish on the 'Geological History of Man,' + and will then declare his conversion, which now is universally known. I + hope that you have received Hooker's splendid essay... Yesterday I heard + from Lyell that a German, Dr. Schaaffhausen (Hermann Schaaffhausen 'Ueber + Bestandigkeit und Umwandlung der Arten.' Verhandl. d. Naturhist. Vereins, + Bonn, 1853. See 'Origin,' Historical Sketch.), has sent him a pamphlet + published some years ago, in which the same view is nearly anticipated; + but I have not yet seen this pamphlet. My brother, who is a very sagacious + man, always said, "you will find that some one will have been before you." + I am at work at my larger work, which I shall publish in a separate + volume. But from ill-health and swarms of letters, I get on very very + slowly. I hope that I shall not have wearied you with these details. With + sincere thanks for your letter, and with most deeply felt wishes for your + success in science, and in every way, believe me, + </p> + <p> + Your sincere well-wisher, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, May 22nd 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Again I have to thank you for one of your very pleasant letters of May + 7th, enclosing a very pleasant remittance of 22 pounds. I am in simple + truth astonished at all the kind trouble you have taken for me. I return + Appleton's account. For the chance of your wishing for a formal + acknowledgment I send one. If you have any further communication to the + Appletons, pray express my acknowledgment for [their] generosity; for it + is generosity in my opinion. I am not at all surprised at the sale + diminishing; my extreme surprise is at the greatness of the sale. No doubt + the public has been SHAMEFULLY imposed on! for they bought the book + thinking that it would be nice easy reading. I expect the sale to stop + soon in England, yet Lyell wrote to me the other day that calling at + Murray's he heard that fifty copies had gone in the previous forty-eight + hours. I am extremely glad that you will notice in 'Silliman' the + additions in the 'Origin.' Judging from letters (and I have just seen one + from Thwaites to Hooker), and from remarks, the most serious omission in + my book was not explaining how it is, as I believe, that all forms do not + necessarily advance, how there can now be SIMPLE organisms still + existing... I hear there is a VERY severe review on me in the 'North + British,' by a Rev. Mr. Dunns (This statement as to authorship was made on + the authority of Robert Chambers.), a Free Kirk minister, and dabbler in + Natural History. I should be very glad to see any good American reviews, + as they are all more or less useful. You say that you shall touch on other + reviews. Huxley told me some time ago that after a time he would write a + review on all the reviews, whether he will I know not. If you allude to + the 'Edinburgh,' pray notice SOME of the points which I will point out on + a separate slip. In the "Saturday Review" (one of our cleverest + periodicals) of May 5th, page 573, there is a nice article on [the + 'Edinburgh'] review, defending Huxley, but not Hooker; and the latter, I + think, [the 'Edinburgh' reviewer] treats most ungenerously. (In a letter + to Mr. Huxley my father wrote: "Have you seen the last "Saturday Review"? + I am very glad of the defence of you and of myself. I wish the reviewer + had noticed Hooker. The reviewer, whoever he is, is a jolly good fellow, + as this review and the last on me showed. He writes capitally, and + understands well his subject. I wish he had slapped [the 'Edinburgh' + reviewer] a little bit harder.") But surely you will get sick unto death + of me and my reviewers. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the theological view of the question. This is always + painful to me. I am bewildered. I had no intention to write atheistically. + But I own that I cannot see as plainly as others do, and as I should wish + to do, evidence of design and beneficence on all sides of us. There seems + to me too much misery in the world. I cannot persuade myself that a + beneficent and omnipotent God would have designedly created the + Ichneumonidae with the express intention of their feeding within the + living bodies of Caterpillars, or that a cat should play with mice. Not + believing this, I see no necessity in the belief that the eye was + expressly designed. On the other hand, I cannot anyhow be contented to + view this wonderful universe, and especially the nature of man, and to + conclude that everything is the result of brute force. I am inclined to + look at everything as resulting from designed laws, with the details, + whether good or bad, left to the working out of what we may call chance. + Not that this notion AT ALL satisfies me. I feel most deeply that the + whole subject is too profound for the human intellect. A dog might as well + speculate on the mind of Newton. Let each man hope and believe what he + can. Certainly I agree with you that my views are not at all necessarily + atheistical. The lightning kills a man, whether a good one or bad one, + owing to the excessively complex action of natural laws. A child (who may + turn out an idiot) is born by the action of even more complex laws, and I + can see no reason why a man, or other animal, may not have been + aboriginally produced by other laws, and that all these laws may have been + expressly designed by an omniscient Creator, who foresaw every future + event and consequence. But the more I think the more bewildered I become; + as indeed I probably have shown by this letter. + </p> + <p> + Most deeply do I feel your generous kindness and interest. + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely and cordially, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + {Here follow my father's criticisms on the 'Edinburgh Review'}: + </p> + <p> + "What a quibble to pretend he did not understand what I meant by + INHABITANTS of South America; and any one would suppose that I had not + throughout my volume touched on Geographical Distribution. He ignores also + everything which I have said on Classification, Geological Succession, + Homologies, Embryology, and Rudimentary Organs—page 496. + </p> + <p> + He falsely applies what I said (too rudely) about "blindness of + preconceived opinions" to those who believe in creation, whereas I + exclusively apply the remark to those who give up multitudes of species as + true species, but believe in the remainder—page 500. + </p> + <p> + He slightly alters what I say,—I ASK whether creationists really + believe that elemental atoms have flashed into life. He says that I + describe them as so believing, and this, surely, is a difference—page + 501. + </p> + <p> + He speaks of my "clamouring against" all who believe in creation, and this + seems to me an unjust accusation—page 501. + </p> + <p> + He makes me say that the dorsal vertebrae vary; this is simply false: I + nowhere say a word about dorsal vertebrae—page 522. + </p> + <p> + What an illiberal sentence that is about my pretension to candour, and + about my rushing through barriers which stopped Cuvier: such an argument + would stop any progress in science—page 525. + </p> + <p> + How disingenuous to quote from my remark to you about my BRIEF letter + [published in the 'Linn. Soc. Journal'], as if it applied to the whole + subject—page 530. + </p> + <p> + How disingenuous to say that we are called on to accept the theory, from + the imperfection of the geological record, when I over and over again + [say] how grave a difficulty the imperfection offers—page 530."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, May 30th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I return Harvey's letter, I have been very glad to see the reason why he + has not read your Essay. I feared it was bigotry, and I am glad to see + that he goes a little way (VERY MUCH further than I supposed) with us... + </p> + <p> + I was not sorry for a natural opportunity of writing to Harvey, just to + show that I was not piqued at his turning me and my book into ridicule (A + "serio-comic squib," read before the 'Dublin University Zoological and + Botanical Association,' February 17, 1860, and privately printed. My + father's presentation copy is inscribed "With the writer's REPENTANCE, + October 1860."), not that I think it was a proceeding which I deserved, or + worthy of him. It delights me that you are interested in watching the + progress of opinion on the change of Species; I feared that you were weary + of the subject; and therefore did not send A. Gray's letters. The battle + rages furiously in the United States. Gray says he was preparing a speech, + which would take 1 1/2 hours to deliver, and which he "fondly hoped would + be a stunner." He is fighting splendidly, and there seems to have been + many discussions with Agassiz and others at the meetings. Agassiz pities + me much at being so deluded. As for the progress of opinion, I clearly see + that it will be excessively slow, almost as slow as the change of + species... I am getting wearied at the storm of hostile reviews and hardly + any useful... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, Friday night [June 1st, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... Have you seen Hopkins (William Hopkins died in 1866, "in his + sevent-third year." He began life with a farm in Suffolk, but ultimately + entered, comparatively late in life, at Peterhouse, Cambridge; he took his + degree in 1827, and afterward became an Esquire Bedell of the University. + He was chiefly known as a mathematical "coach," and was eminently + successful in the manufacture of Senior Wranglers. Nevertheless Mr. + Stephen says ('Life of Fawcett,' page 26) that he "was conspicuous for + inculcating" a "liberal view of the studies of the place. He endeavoured + to stimulate a philosophical interest in the mathematical sciences, + instead of simply rousing an ardour for competition." He contributed many + papers on geological and mathematical subjects to the scientific journals. + He had a strong influence for good over the younger men with whom he came + in contact. The letter which he wrote to Henry Fawcett on the occasion of + his blindness illustrates this. Mr. Stephen says ('Life of Fawcett,' page + 48) that by "this timely word of good cheer," Fawcett was roused from "his + temporary prostration," and enabled to take a "more cheerful and resolute + tone.") in the new 'Fraser'? the public will, I should think, find it + heavy. He will be dead against me, as you prophesied; but he is generally + civil to me personally. ('Fraser's Magazine,' June 1860. My father, no + doubt, refers to the following passage, page 752, where the Reviewer + Expresses his "full participation in the high respect in which the author + is universally held, both as a man and a naturalist; and the more so, + because in the remarks which will follow in the second part of this Essay + we shall be found to differ widely from him as regards many of his + conclusions and the reasonings on which he has founded them, and shall + claim the full right to express such differences of opinion with all that + freedom which the interests of scientific truth demands, and which we are + sure Mr. Darwin would be one of the last to refuse to any one prepared to + exercise it with candour and courtesy." Speaking of this review, my father + wrote to Dr. Asa Gray: "I have remonstrated with him [Hopkins] for so + coolly saying that I base my views on what I reckon as great difficulties. + Any one, by taking these difficulties alone, can make a most strong case + against me. I could myself write a more damning review than has as yet + appeared!" A second notice by Hopkins appeared in the July number of + 'Fraser's Magazine.') On his standard of proof, NATURAL science would + never progress, for without the making of theories I am convinced there + would be no observation. + </p> + <p> + ... I have begun reading the 'North British' (May 1860.), which so far + strikes me as clever. + </p> + <p> + Phillips's Lecture at Cambridge is to be published. + </p> + <p> + All these reiterated attacks will tell heavily; there will be no more + converts, and probably some will go back. I hope you do not grow + disheartened, I am determined to fight to the last. I hear, however, that + the great Buckle highly approves of my book. + </p> + <p> + I have had a note from poor Blyth (Edward Blyth, 1810-1873. His + indomitable love of natural history made him neglect the druggist's + business with which he started in life, and he soon got into serious + difficulties. After supporting himself for a few years as a writer on + Field Natural History, he ultimately went out to India as Curator of the + Museum of the R. Asiatic Soc. of Bengal, where the greater part of his + working life was spent. His chief publications were the monthly reports + made as part of his duty to the Society. He had stored in his remarkable + memory a wonderful wealth of knowledge, especially with regard to the + mammalia and birds of India—knowledge of which he freely gave to + those who asked. His letters to my father give evidence of having been + carefully studied, and the long list of entries after his name in the + index to 'Animals and Plants,' show how much help was received from him. + His life was an unprosperous and unhappy one, full of money difficulties + and darkened by the death of his wife after a few years of marriage.), of + Calcutta, who is much disappointed at hearing that Lord Canning will not + grant any money; so I much fear that all your great pains will be thrown + away. Blyth says (and he is in many respects a very good judge) that his + ideas on species are quite revolutionised... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, June 5th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + It is a pleasure to me to write to you, as I have no one to talk about + such matters as we write on. But I seriously beg you not to write to me + unless so inclined; for busy as you are, and seeing many people, the case + is very different between us... + </p> + <p> + Have you seen —'s abusive article on me?... It out does even the + 'North British' and 'Edinburgh' in misapprehension and misrepresentation. + I never knew anything so unfair as in discussing cells of bees, his + ignoring the case of Melipona, which builds combs almost exactly + intermediate between hive and humble bees. What has — done that he + feels so immeasurably superior to all us wretched naturalists, and to all + political economists, including that great philosopher Malthus? This + review, however, and Harvey's letter have convinced me that I must be a + very bad explainer. Neither really understand what I mean by Natural + Selection. I am inclined to give up the attempt as hopeless. Those who do + not understand, it seems, cannot be made to understand. + </p> + <p> + By the way, I think, we entirely agree, except perhaps that I use too + forcible language about selection. I entirely agree, indeed would almost + go further than you when you say that climate (i.e. variability from all + unknown causes) is "an active handmaid, influencing its mistress most + materially." Indeed, I have never hinted that Natural Selection is "the + efficient cause to the exclusion of the other," i.e. variability from + Climate, etc. The very term SELECTION implies something, i.e. variation or + difference, to be selected... + </p> + <p> + How does your book progress (I mean your general sort of book on plants), + I hope to God you will be more successful than I have been in making + people understand your meaning. I should begin to think myself wholly in + the wrong, and that I was an utter fool, but then I cannot yet persuade + myself, that Lyell, and you and Huxley, Carpenter, Asa Gray, and Watson, + etc., are all fools together. Well, time will show, and nothing but time. + Farewell... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, June 6th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... It consoles me that — sneers at Malthus, for that clearly shows, + mathematician though he may be, he cannot understand common reasoning. By + the way what a discouraging example Malthus is, to show during what long + years the plainest case may be misrepresented and misunderstood. I have + read the 'Future'; how curious it is that several of my reviewers should + advance such wild arguments, as that varieties of dogs and cats do not + mingle; and should bring up the old exploded doctrine of definite + analogies... I am beginning to despair of ever making the majority + understand my notions. Even Hopkins does not thoroughly. By the way, I + have been so much pleased by the way he personally alludes to me. I must + be a very bad explainer. I hope to Heaven that you will succeed better. + Several reviews and several letters have shown me too clearly how little I + am understood. I suppose "natural selection" was a bad term; but to change + it now, I think, would make confusion worse confounded, nor can I think of + a better; "Natural Preservation" would not imply a preservation of + particular varieties, and would seem a truism, and would not bring man's + and nature's selection under one point of view. I can only hope by + reiterated explanations finally to make the matter clearer. If my MS. + spreads out, I think I shall publish one volume exclusively on variation + of animals and plants under domestication. I want to show that I have not + been quite so rash as many suppose. + </p> + <p> + Though weary of reviews, I should like to see Lowell's (The late J.A. + Lowell in the 'Christian Examiner' (Boston, U.S., May, 1860.) some time... + I suppose Lowell's difficulty about instinct is the same as Bowen's; but + it seems to me wholly to rest on the assumption that instincts cannot + graduate as finely as structures. I have stated in my volume that it is + hardly possible to know which, i.e. whether instinct or structure, change + first by insensible steps. Probably sometimes instinct, sometimes + structure. When a British insect feeds on an exotic plant, instinct has + changed by very small steps, and their structures might change so as to + fully profit by the new food. Or structure might change first, as the + direction of tusks in one variety of Indian elephants, which leads it to + attack the tiger in a different manner from other kinds of elephants. + Thanks for your letter of the 2nd, chiefly about Murray. (N.B. Harvey of + Dublin gives me, in a letter, the argument of tall men marrying short + women, as one of great weight!) + </p> + <p> + I do not quite understand what you mean by saying, "that the more they + prove that you underrate physical conditions, the better for you, as + Geology comes in to your aid." + </p> + <p> + ... I see in Murray and many others one incessant fallacy, when alluding + to slight differences of physical conditions as being very important; + namely, oblivion of the fact that all species, except very local ones, + range over a considerable area, and though exposed to what the world calls + considerable DIVERSITIES, yet keep constant. I have just alluded to this + in the 'Origin' in comparing the productions of the Old and the New + Worlds. Farewell, shall you be at Oxford? If H. gets quite well, perhaps I + shall go there. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down [June 14th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... Lowell's review (J.A. Lowell in the 'Christian Examiner,' May 1860.) + is pleasantly written, but it is clear that he is not a naturalist. He + quite overlooks the importance of the accumulation of mere individual + differences, and which, I think I can show, is the great agency of change + under domestication. I have not finished Schaaffhausen, as I read German + so badly. I have ordered a copy for myself, and should like to keep yours + till my own arrives, but will return it to you instantly if wanted. He + admits statements rather rashly, as I dare say I do. I see only one + sentence as yet at all approaching natural selection. + </p> + <p> + There is a notice of me in the penultimate number of 'All the Year Round,' + but not worth consulting; chiefly a well-done hash of my own words. Your + last note was very interesting and consolatory to me. + </p> + <p> + I have expressly stated that I believe physical conditions have a more + direct effect on plants than on animals. But the more I study, the more I + am led to think that natural selection regulates, in a state of nature, + most trifling differences. As squared stone, or bricks, or timber, are the + indispensable materials for a building, and influence its character, so is + variability not only indispensable, but influential. Yet in the same + manner as the architect is the ALL important person in a building, so is + selection with organic bodies... + </p> + <p> + [The meeting of the British Association at Oxford in 1860 is famous for + two pitched battles over the 'Origin of Species.' Both of them originated + in unimportant papers. On Thursday, June 28, Dr. Daubeny of Oxford made a + communication to Section D: "On the final causes of the sexuality of + plants, with particular reference to Mr. Darwin's work on the 'Origin of + Species.'" Mr. Huxley was called on by the President, but tried (according + to the "Athenaeum" report) to avoid a discussion, on the ground "that a + general audience, in which sentiment would unduly interfere with + intellect, was not the public before which such a discussion should be + carried on." However, the subject was not allowed to drop. Sir R. Owen (I + quote from the "Athenaeum", July 7, 1860), who "wished to approach this + subject in the spirit of the philosopher," expressed his "conviction that + there were facts by which the public could come to some conclusion with + regard to the probabilities of the truth of Mr. Darwin's theory." He went + on to say that the brain of the gorilla "presented more differences, as + compared with the brain of man, than it did when compared with the brains + of the very lowest and most problematical of the Quadrumana." Mr. Huxley + replied, and gave these assertions a "direct and unqualified + contradiction," pledging himself to "justify that unusual procedure + elsewhere" ('Man's Place in Nature,' by T.H. Huxley, 1863, page 114.), a + pledge which he amply fulfilled. (See the 'Nat. Hist. Review,' 1861.) On + Friday there was peace, but on Saturday 30th, the battle arose with + redoubled fury over a paper by Dr. Draper of New York, on the + 'Intellectual development of Europe considered with reference to the views + of Mr. Darwin.' + </p> + <p> + The following account is from an eye-witness of the scene. + </p> + <p> + "The excitement was tremendous. The Lecture-room, in which it had been + arranged that the discussion should be held, proved far too small for the + audience, and the meeting adjourned to the Library of the Museum, which + was crammed to suffocation long before the champions entered the lists. + The numbers were estimated at from 700 to 1000. Had it been term-time, or + had the general public been admitted, it would have been impossible to + have accommodated the rush to hear the oratory of the bold Bishop. + Professor Henslow, the President of Section D, occupied the chair and + wisely announced in limine that none who had not valid arguments to bring + forward on one side or the other, would be allowed to address the meeting: + a caution that proved necessary, for no fewer than four combatants had + their utterances burked by him, because of their indulgence in vague + declamation. + </p> + <p> + "The Bishop was up to time, and spoke for full half-an-hour with + inimitable spirit, emptiness and unfairness. It was evident from his + handling of the subject that he had been 'crammed' up to the throat, and + that he knew nothing at first hand; in fact, he used no argument not to be + found in his 'Quarterly' article. He ridiculed Darwin badly, and Huxley + savagely, but all in such dulcet tones, so persuasive a manner, and in + such well-turned periods, that I who had been inclined to blame the + President for allowing a discussion that could serve no scientific purpose + now forgave him from the bottom of my heart. Unfortunately the Bishop, + hurried along on the current of his own eloquence, so far forgot himself + as to push his attempted advantage to the verge of personality in a + telling passage in which he turned round and addressed Huxley: I forgot + the precise words, and quote from Lyell. 'The Bishop asked whether Huxley + was related by his grandfather's or grandmother's side to an ape.' + (Lyell's 'Letters,' vol. ii. page 335.) Huxley replied to the scientific + argument of his opponent with force and eloquence, and to the personal + allusion with a sel-restraint, that gave dignity to his crushing + rejoinder." + </p> + <p> + Many versions of Mr. Huxley's speech were current: the following report of + his conclusion is from a letter addressed by the late John Richard Green, + then an undergraduate, to a fellow-student, now Professor Boyd Dawkins. "I + asserted, and I repeat, that a man has no reason to be ashamed of having + an ape for his grandfather. If there were an ancestor whom I should feel + shame in recalling, it would be a MAN, a man of restless and versatile + intellect, who, not content with an equivocal (Prof. V. Carus, who has a + distinct recollection of the scene, does not remember the word equivocal. + He believes too that Lyell's version of the "ape" sentence is slightly + incorrect.) success in his own sphere of activity, plunges into scientific + questions with which he has no real acquaintance, only to obscure them by + an aimless rhetoric, and distract the attention of his hearers from the + real point at issue by eloquent digressions, and skilled appeals to + religious prejudice." + </p> + <p> + The letter above quoted continues: + </p> + <p> + "The excitement was now at its height; a lady fainted and had to be + carried out, and it was some time before the discussion was resumed. Some + voices called for Hooker, and his name having been handed up, the + President invited him to give his view of the theory from the Botanical + side. This he did, demonstrating that the Bishop, by his own showing, had + never grasped the principles of the 'Origin' (With regard to the Bishop's + 'Quarterly Review,' my father wrote: "These very clever men think they can + write a review with a very slight knowledge of the book reviewed or + subject in question."), and that he was absolutely ignorant of the + elements of botanical science. The Bishop made no reply, and the meeting + broke up. + </p> + <p> + "There was a crowded conversazione in the evening at the rooms of the + hospitable and genial Professor of Botany, Dr. Daubeny, where the almost + sole topic was the battle of the 'Origin,' and I was much struck with the + fair and unprejudiced way in which the black coats and white cravats of + Oxford discussed the question, and the frankness with which they offered + their congratulations to the winners in the combat.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Sudbrook Park, Monday night [July + 2nd, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your letter. I have been very poorly, with almost + continuous bad headache for forty-eight hours, and I was low enough, and + thinking what a useless burthen I was to myself and all others, when your + letter came, and it has so cheered me; your kindness and affection brought + tears into my eyes. Talk of fame, honour, pleasure, wealth, all are dirt + compared with affection; and this is a doctrine with which, I know, from + your letter, that you will agree with from the bottom of your heart... How + I should have liked to have wandered about Oxford with you, if I had been + well enough; and how still more I should have liked to have heard you + triumphing over the Bishop. I am astonished at your success and audacity. + It is something unintelligible to me how any one can argue in public like + orators do. I had no idea you had this power. I have read lately so many + hostile views, that I was beginning to think that perhaps I was wholly in + the wrong, and that — was right when he said the whole subject would + be forgotten in ten years; but now that I hear that you and Huxley will + fight publicly (which I am sure I never could do), I fully believe that + our cause will, in the long-run, prevail. I am glad I was not in Oxford, + for I should have been overwhelmed, with my [health] in its present state. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Sudbrook Park, Richmond, July 3rd + [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I had a letter from Oxford, written by Hooker late on Sunday night, + giving me some account of the awful battles which have raged about species + at Oxford. He tells me you fought nobly with Owen (but I have heard no + particulars), and that you answered the B. of O. capitally. I often think + that my friends (and you far beyond others) have good cause to hate me, + for having stirred up so much mud, and led them into so much odious + trouble. If I had been a friend of myself, I should have hated me. (How to + make that sentence good English, I know not.) But remember, if I had not + stirred up the mud, some one else certainly soon would. I honour your + pluck; I would as soon have died as tried to answer the Bishop in such an + assembly... + </p> + <p> + [On July 20th, my father wrote to Mr. Huxley: + </p> + <p> + "From all that I hear from several quarters, it seems that Oxford did the + subject great good. It is of enormous importance, the showing the world + that a few first-rate men are not afraid of expressing their opinion."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. [July 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have just read the 'Quarterly.' ('Quarterly Review,' July 1860. The + article in question was by Wilberforce, Bishop of Oxford, and was + afterwards published in his "Essays Contributed to the 'Quarterly Review,' + 1874." The passage from the 'Anti-Jacobin' gives the history of the + evolution of space from the "primaeval point or punctum saliens of the + universe," which is conceived to have moved "forward in a right line ad + infinitum, till it grew tired; after which the right line, which it had + generated, would begin to put itself in motion in a lateral direction, + describing an area of infinite extent. This area, as soon as it became + conscious of its own existence, would begin to ascend or descend according + as its specific gravity would determine it, forming an immense solid space + filled with vacuum, and capable of containing the present universe." + </p> + <p> + The following (page 263) may serve as an example of the passages in which + the reviewer refers to Sir Charles Lyell:—"That Mr. Darwin should + have wandered from this broad highway of nature's works into the jungle of + fanciful assumption is no small evil. We trust that he is mistaken in + believing that he may count Sir C. Lyell as one of his converts. We know, + indeed, that the strength of the temptations which he can bring to bear + upon his geological brother... Yet no man has been more distinct and more + logical in the denial of the transmutation of species than Sir C. Lyell, + and that not in the infancy of his scientific life, but in its full vigour + and maturity." The Bishop goes on to appeal to Lyell, in order that with + his help "this flimsy speculation may be as completely put down as was + what in spite of all denials we must venture to call its twin though less + instructed brother, the 'Vestiges of Creation.'" + </p> + <p> + With reference to this article, Mr. Brodie Innes, my father's old friend + and neighbour, writes:—"Most men would have been annoyed by an + article written with the Bishop's accustomed vigour, a mixture of argument + and ridicule. Mr. Darwin was writing on some parish matter, and put a + postscript—'If you have not seen the last 'Quarterly,' do get it; + the Bishop of Oxford has made such capital fun of me and my grandfather.' + By a curious coincidence, when I received the letter, I was staying in the + same house with the Bishop, and showed it to him. He said, 'I am very glad + he takes it in that way, he is such a capital fellow.'") It is uncommonly + clever; it picks out with skill all the most conjectural parts, and brings + forward well all the difficulties. It quizzes me quite splendidly by + quoting the 'Anti-Jacobin' versus my Grandfather. You are not alluded to, + nor, strange to say, Huxley; and I can plainly see, here and there, + —'s hand. The concluding pages will make Lyell shake in his shoes. + By Jove, if he sticks to us, he will be a real hero. Good-night. Your + wel-quizzed, but not sorrowful, and affectionate friend. + </p> + <p> + C.D. + </p> + <p> + I can see there has been some queer tampering with the Review, for a page + has been cut out and reprinted. + </p> + <p> + [Writing on July 22 to Dr. Asa Gray my father thus refers to Lyell's + position:— + </p> + <p> + "Considering his age, his former views and position in society, I think + his conduct has been heroic on this subject."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. [Hartfield, Sussex] July 22nd + [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Owing to absence from home at water-cure and then having to move my sick + girl to whence I am now writing, I have only lately read the discussion in + Proc. American Acad. (April 10, 1860. Dr. Gray criticised in detail + "several of the positions taken at the preceding meeting by Mr. [J.A.] + Lowell, Prof. Bowen and Prof. Agassiz." It was reprinted in the + "Athenaeum", August 4, 1860.), and now I cannot resist expressing my + sincere admiration of your most clear powers of reasoning. As Hooker + lately said in a note to me, you are more than ANY ONE else the thorough + master of the subject. I declare that you know my book as well as I do + myself; and bring to the question new lines of illustration and argument + in a manner which excites my astonishment and almost my envy! I admire + these discussions, I think, almost more than your article in Silliman's + Journal. Every single word seems weighed carefully, and tells like a + 32-pound shot. It makes me much wish (but I know that you have not time) + that you could write more in detail, and give, for instance, the facts on + the variability of the American wild fruits. The "Athenaeum" has the + largest circulation, and I have sent my copy to the editor with a request + that he would republish the first discussion; I much fear he will not, as + he reviewed the subject in so hostile a spirit... I shall be curious [to + see] and will order the August number, as soon as I know that it contains + your review of Reviews. My conclusion is that you have made a mistake in + being a botanist, you ought to have been a lawyer. + </p> + <p> + ... Henslow (Professor Henslow was mentioned in the December number of + 'Macmillan's Magazine' as being an adherent of Evolution. In consequence + of this he published, in the February number of the following year, a + letter defining his position. This he did by means of an extract from a + letter addressed to him by the Rev. L. Jenyns (Blomefield) which "very + nearly," as he says, expressed his views. Mr. Blomefield wrote, "I was not + aware that you had become a convert to his (Darwin's) theory, and can + hardly suppose you have accepted it as a whole, though, like myself, you + may go to the length of imagining that many of the smaller groups, both of + animals and plants, may at some remote period have had a common parentage. + I do not with some say that the whole of his theory cannot be true—but + that it is very far from proved; and I doubt its ever being possible to + prove it.") and Daubeny are shaken. I hear from Hooker that he hears from + Hochstetter that my views are making very considerable progress in + Germany, and the good workers are discussing the question. Bronn at the + end of his translation has a chapter of criticism, but it is such + difficult German that I have not yet read it. Hopkins's review in 'Fraser' + is thought the best which has appeared against us. I believe that Hopkins + is so much opposed because his course of study has never led him to + reflect much on such subjects as geographical distribution, + classification, homologies, etc., so that he does not feel it a relief to + have some kind of explanation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Hartfield [Sussex], July 30th + [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I had lots of pleasant letters about the British Association, and our + side seems to have got on very well. There has been as much discussion on + the other side of the Atlantic as on this. No one I think understands the + whole case better than Asa Gray, and he has been fighting nobly. He is a + capital reasoner. I have sent one of his printed discussions to our + "Athenaeum", and the editor says he will print it. The 'Quarterly' has + been out some time. It contains no malice, which is wonderful... It makes + me say many things which I do not say. At the end it quotes all your + conclusions against Lamarck, and makes a solemn appeal to you to keep firm + in the true faith. I fancy it will make you quake a little. — has + ingeniously primed the Bishop (with Murchison) against you as head of the + uniformitarians. The only other review worth mentioning, which I can think + of, is in the third No. of the 'London Review,' by some geologist, and + favorable for a wonder. It is very ably done, and I should like much to + know who is the author. I shall be very curious to hear on your return + whether Bronn's German translation of the 'Origin' has drawn any attention + to the subject. Huxley is eager about a 'Natural History Review,' which he + and others are going to edit, and he has got so many first-rate + assistants, that I really believe he will make it a first-rate production. + I have been doing nothing, except a little botanical work as amusement. I + shall hereafter be very anxious to hear how your tour has answered. I + expect your book on the geological history of Man will, with a vengeance, + be a bomb-shell. I hope it will not be very long delayed. Our kindest + remembrances to Lady Lyell. This is not worth sending, but I have nothing + better to say. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. WATKINS. (See Volume I.) Down, July 30th, + [1860?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Watkins, + </p> + <p> + Your note gave me real pleasure. Leading the retired life which I do, with + bad health, I oftener think of old times than most men probably do; and + your face now rises before me, with the pleasant old expression, as + vividly as if I saw you. + </p> + <p> + My book has been well abused, praised, and splendidly quizzed by the + Bishop of Oxford; but from what I see of its influence on really good + workers in science, I feel confident that, IN THE MAIN, I am on the right + road. With respect to your question, I think the arguments are valid, + showing that all animals have descended from four or five primordial + forms; and that analogy and weak reasons go to show that all have + descended from some single prototype. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my old friend. I look back to old Cambridge days with unalloyed + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours most sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + T.H. HUXLEY TO CHARLES DARWIN. August 6th, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I have to announce a new and great ally for you... + </p> + <p> + Von Baer writes to me thus:—Et outre cela, je trouve que vous + ecrivez encore des redactions. Vous avez ecrit sur l'ouvrage de M. Darwin + une critique dont je n'ai trouve que des debris dans un journal allemand. + J'ai oublie le nom terrible du journal anglais dans lequel se trouve votre + recension. En tout cas aussi je ne peux pas trouver le journal ici. Comme + je m'interesse beaucoup pour les idees de M. Darwin, sur lesquelles j'ai + parle publiquement et sur lesquelles je ferai peut-etre imprimer quelque + chose—vous m'obligeriez infiniment si vous pourriez me faire + parvenir ce que vous avez ecrit sur ces idees. + </p> + <p> + "J'ai enonce les memes idees sur la transformation des types ou origine + d'especes que M. Darwin. (See Vol. I.) Mais c'est seulement sur la + geographie zoologique que je m'appuie. Vous trouverez, dans le dernier + chapitre du traite 'Ueber Papuas und Alfuren,' que j'en parle tres + decidement sans savoir que M. Darwin s'occupait de cet objet." + </p> + <p> + The treatise to which Von Baer refers he gave me when over here, but I + have not been able to lay hands on it since this letter reached me two + days ago. When I find it I will let you know what there is in it. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours faithfully, T.H. HUXLEY. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, August 8 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Your note contained magnificent news, and thank you heartily for sending + it me. Von Baer weighs down with a vengeance all the virulence of [the + 'Edinburgh' reviewer] and weak arguments of Agassiz. If you write to Von + Baer, for heaven's sake tell him that we should think one nod of + approbation on our side, of the greatest value; and if he does write + anything, beg him to send us a copy, for I would try and get it translated + and published in the "Athenaeum" and in 'Silliman' to touch up Agassiz... + Have you seen Agassiz's weak metaphysical and theological attack on the + 'Origin' in the last 'Silliman'? (The 'American Journal of Science and + Arts' (commonly called 'Silliman's Journal'), July 1860. Printed from + advanced sheets of vol. iii. of 'Contributions to the Nat. Hist. of the + U.S.' My father's copy has a pencilled "Truly" opposite the following + passage:—"Unless Darwin and his followers succeed in showing that + the struggle for life tends to something beyond favouring the existence of + certain individuals over that of other individuals, they will soon find + that they are following a shadow.") I would send it you, but apprehend it + would be less trouble for you to look at it in London than return it to + me. R. Wagner has sent me a German pamphlet ('Louis Agassiz's Prinzipien + der Classification, etc., mit Rucksicht auf Darwins Ansichten. + Separat-Abdruck aus den Gottingischen gelehrten Anzeigen,' 1860.), giving + an abstract of Agassiz's 'Essay on Classification,' "mit Rucksicht auf + Darwins Ansichten," etc. etc. He won't go very "dangerous lengths," but + thinks the truth lies half-way between Agassiz and the 'Origin.' As he + goes thus far he will, nolens volens, have to go further. He says he is + going to review me in [his] yearly Report. My good and kind agent for the + propagation of the Gospel—i.e. the devil's gospel. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, August 11th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have laughed at Woodward thinking that you were a man who could be + influenced in your judgment by the voice of the public; and yet after + mortally sneering at him, I was obliged to confess to myself, that I had + had fears, what the effect might be of so many heavy guns fired by great + men. As I have (sent by Murray) a spare 'Quarterly Review,' I send it by + this post, as it may amuse you. The Anti-Jacobin part amused me. It is + full of errors, and Hooker is thinking of answering it. There has been a + cancelled page; I should like to know what gigantic blunder it contained. + Hooker says that — has played on the Bishop, and made him strike + whatever note he liked; he has wished to make the article as disagreeable + to you as possible. I will send the "Athenaeum" in a day or two. + </p> + <p> + As you wish to hear what reviews have appeared, I may mention that Agassiz + has fired off a shot in the last 'Silliman,' not good at all, denies + variations and rests on the perfection of Geological evidence. Asa Gray + tells me that a very clever friend has been almost converted to our side + by this review of Agassiz's... Professor Parsons (Theophilus Parsons, + Professor of Law in Harvard University.) has published in the same + 'Silliman' a speculative paper correcting my notions, worth nothing. In + the 'Highland Agricultural Journal' there is a review by some + Entomologist, not worth much. This is all that I can remember... As Huxley + says, the platoon firing must soon cease. Hooker and Huxley, and Asa Gray, + I see, are determined to stick to the battle and not give in; I am fully + convinced that whenever you publish, it will produce a great effect on all + TRIMMERS, and on many others. By the way I forgot to mention Daubeny's + pamphlet ('Remarks on the final causes of the sexuality of plants with + particular reference to Mr. Darwin's work on the "Origin of Species."'—British + Association Report, 1860.), very liberal and candid, but scientifically + weak. I believe Hooker is going nowhere this summer; he is excessively + busy... He has written me many, most nice letters. I shall be very curious + to hear on your return some account of your Geological doings. Talking of + Geology, you used to be interested about the "pipes" in the chalk. About + three years ago a perfectly circular hole suddenly appeared in a flat + grass field to everyone's astonishment, and was filled up with many waggon + loads of earth; and now two or three days ago, again it has circularly + subsided about two feet more. How clearly this shows what is still slowly + going on. This morning I recommenced work, and am at dogs; when I have + written my short discussion on them, I will have it copied, and if you + like, you can then see how the argument stands, about their multiple + origin. As you seemed to think this important, it might be worth your + reading; though I do not feel sure that you will come to the same probable + conclusion that I have done. By the way, the Bishop makes a very telling + case against me, by accumulating several instances where I speak very + doubtfully; but this is very unfair, as in such cases as this of the dog, + the evidence is and must be very doubtful... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, August 11 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + On my return home from Sussex about a week ago, I found several articles + sent by you. The first article, from the 'Atlantic Monthly,' I am very + glad to possess. By the way, the editor of the "Athenaeum" (August 4, + 1860.) has inserted your answer to Agassiz, Bowen, and Co., and when I + therein read them, I admired them even more than at first. They really + seemed to be admirable in their condensation, force, clearness and + novelty. + </p> + <p> + I am surprised that Agassiz did not succeed in writing something better. + How absurd that logical quibble—"if species do not exist, how can + they vary?" As if any one doubted their temporary existence. How coolly he + assumes that there is some clearly defined distinction between individual + differences and varieties. It is no wonder that a man who calls identical + forms, when found in two countries, distinct species, cannot find + variation in nature. Again, how unreasonable to suppose that domestic + varieties selected by man for his own fancy should resemble natural + varieties or species. The whole article seems to me poor; it seems to me + hardly worth a detailed answer (even if I could do it, and I much doubt + whether I possess your skill in picking out salient points and driving a + nail into them), and indeed you have already answered several points. + Agassiz's name, no doubt, is a heavy weight against us... + </p> + <p> + If you see Professor Parsons, will you thank him for the extremely liberal + and fair spirit in which his Essay ('Silliman's Journal,' July, 1860.) is + written. Please tell him that I reflected much on the chance of favourable + monstrosities (i.e. great and sudden variation) arising. I have, of + course, no objection to this, indeed it would be a great aid, but I do not + allude to the subject, for, after much labour, I could find nothing which + satisfied me of the probability of such occurrences. There seems to me in + almost every case too much, too complex, and too beautiful adaptation, in + every structure, to believe in its sudden production. I have alluded under + the head of beautifully hooked seeds to such possibility. Monsters are apt + to be sterile, or NOT to transmit monstrous peculiarities. Look at the + fineness of gradation in the shells of successive SUB-STAGES of the same + great formation; I could give many other considerations which made me + doubt such view. It holds, to a certain extent, with domestic productions + no doubt, where man preserves some abrupt change in structure. It amused + me to see Sir R. Murchison quoted as a judge of affinities of animals, and + it gave me a cold shudder to hear of any one speculating about a true + crustacean giving birth to a true fish! (Parson's, loc. cit. page 5, + speaking of Pterichthys and Cephalaspis, says:—"Now is it too much + to infer from these facts that either of these animals, if a crustacean, + was so nearly a fish that some of its ova may have become fish; or, if + itself a fish, was so nearly a crustacean that it may have been born from + the ovum of a crustacean?") + </p> + <p> + Yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, September 1st [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have been much interested by your letter of the 28th, received this + morning. It has DELIGHTED me, because it demonstrates that you have + thought a good deal lately on Natural Selection. Few things have surprised + me more than the entire paucity of objections and difficulties new to me + in the published reviews. Your remarks are of a different stamp and new to + me. I will run through them, and make a few pleadings such as occur to me. + </p> + <p> + I put in the possibility of the Galapagos having been CONTINUOUSLY joined + to America, out of mere subservience to the many who believe in Forbes's + doctrine, and did not see the danger of admission, about small mammals + surviving there in such case. The case of the Galapagos, from certain + facts on littoral sea-shells (viz. Pacific Ocean and South American + littoral species), in fact convinced me more than in any other case of + other islands, that the Galapagos had never been continuously united with + the mainland; it was mere base subservience, and terror of Hooker and Co. + </p> + <p> + With respect to atolls, I think mammals would hardly survive VERY LONG, + even if the main islands (for as I have said in the Coral Book, the + outline of groups of atolls do not look like a former CONTINENT) had been + tenanted by mammals, from the extremely small area, the very peculiar + conditions, and the probability that during subsidence all or nearly all + atolls have been breached and flooded by the sea many times during their + existence as atolls. + </p> + <p> + I cannot conceive any existing reptile being converted into a mammal. From + homologies I should look at it as certain that all mammals had descended + from some single progenitor. What its nature was, it is impossible to + speculate. More like, probably, the Ornithorhynchus or Echidna than any + known form; as these animals combine reptilian characters (and in a less + degree bird character) with mammalian. We must imagine some form as + intermediate, as is Lepidosiren now, between reptiles and fish, between + mammals and birds on the one hand (for they retain longer the same + embryological character) and reptiles on the other hand. With respect to a + mammal not being developed on any island, besides want of time for so + prodigious a development, there must have arrived on the island the + necessary and peculiar progenitor, having a character like the embryo of a + mammal; and not an ALREADY DEVELOPED reptile, bird or fish. + </p> + <p> + We might give to a bird the habits of a mammal, but inheritance would + retain almost for eternity some of the bird-like structure, and prevent a + new creature ranking as a true mammal. + </p> + <p> + I have often speculated on antiquity of islands, but not with your + precision, or at all under the point of view of Natural Selection NOT + having done what might have been anticipated. The argument of littoral + Miocene shells at the Canary Islands is new to me. I was deeply impressed + (from the amount of the denudation) [with the] antiquity of St. Helena, + and its age agrees with the peculiarity of the flora. With respect to bats + at New Zealand (N.B. There are two or three European bats in Madeira, and + I think in the Canary Islands) not having given rise to a group of + non-volant bats, it is, now you put the case, surprising; more especially + as the genus of bats in New Zealand is very peculiar, and therefore has + probably been long introduced, and they now speak of Cretacean fossils + there. But the first necessary step has to be shown, namely, of a bat + taking to feed on the ground, or anyhow, and anywhere, except in the air. + I am bound to confess I do know one single such fact, viz. of an Indian + species killing frogs. Observe, that in my wretched Polar Bear case, I do + show the first step by which conversion into a whale "would be easy," + "would offer no difficulty"!! So with seals, I know of no fact showing any + the least incipient variation of seals feeding on the shore. Moreover, + seals wander much; I searched in vain, and could not find ONE case of any + species of seal confined to any islands. And hence wanderers would be apt + to cross with individuals undergoing any change on an island, as in the + case of land birds of Madeira and Bermuda. The same remark applies even to + bats, as they frequently come to Bermuda from the mainland, though about + 600 miles distant. With respect to the Amblyrhynchus of the Galapagos, one + may infer as probable, from marine habits being so rare with Saurians, and + from the terrestrial species being confined to a few central islets, that + its progenitor first arrived at the Galapagos; from what country it is + impossible to say, as its affinity I believe is not very clear to any + known species. The offspring of the terrestrial species was probably + rendered marine. Now in this case I do not pretend I can show variation in + habits; but we have in the terrestrial species a vegetable feeder (in + itself a rather unusual circumstance), largely on LICHENS, and it would + not be a great change for its offspring to feed first on littoral algae + and then on submarine algae. I have said what I can in defence, but yours + is a good line of attack. We should, however, always remember that no + change will ever be effected till a variation in the habits or structure + or of both CHANCE to occur in the right direction, so as to give the + organism in question an advantage over other already established occupants + of land or water, and this may be in any particular case indefinitely + long. I am very glad you will read my dogs MS., for it will be important + to me to see what you think of the balance of evidence. After long + pondering on a subject it is often hard to judge. With hearty thanks for + your most interesting letter. Farewell. + </p> + <p> + My dear old master, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, September 2nd [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I am astounded at your news received this morning. I am become such an old + fogy that I am amazed at your spirit. For God's sake do not go and get + your throat cut. Bless my soul, I think you must be a little insane. I + must confess it will be a most interesting tour; and, if you get to the + top of Lebanon, I suppose extremely interesting—you ought to collect + any beetles under stones there; but the Entomologists are such slow + coaches. I dare say no result could be made out of them. [They] have never + worked the Alpines of Britain. + </p> + <p> + If you come across any Brine lakes, do attend to their minute flora and + fauna; I have often been surprised how little this has been attended to. + </p> + <p> + I have had a long letter from Lyell, who starts ingenious difficulties + opposed to Natural Selection, because it has not done more than it has. + This is very good, as it shows that he has thoroughly mastered the + subject; and shows he is in earnest. Very striking letter altogether and + it rejoices the cockles of my heart. + </p> + <p> + ... How I shall miss you, my best and kindest of friends. God bless you. + </p> + <p> + Yours ever affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, September 10 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... You will be weary of my praise, but it (Dr. Gray in the 'Atlantic + Monthly' for July, 1860.) does strike me as quite admirably argued, and so + well and pleasantly written. Your many metaphors are inimitably good. I + said in a former letter that you were a lawyer, but I made a gross + mistake, I am sure that you are a poet. No, by Jove, I will tell you what + you are, a hybrid, a complex cross of lawyer, poet, naturalist and + theologian! Was there ever such a monster seen before? + </p> + <p> + I have just looked through the passages which I have marked as appearing + to me extra good, but I see that they are too numerous to specify, and + this is no exaggeration. My eye just alights on the happy comparison of + the colours of the prism and our artificial groups. I see one little error + of fossil CATTLE in South America. + </p> + <p> + It is curious how each one, I suppose, weighs arguments in a different + balance: embryology is to me by far the strongest single class of facts in + favour of change of forms, and not one, I think, of my reviewers has + alluded to this. Variation not coming on at a very early age, and being + inherited at not a very early corresponding period, explains, as it seems + to me, the grandest of all facts in natural history, or rather in zoology, + viz. the resemblance of embryos. + </p> + <p> + [Dr. Gray wrote three articles in the 'Atlantic Monthly' for July, August, + and October, which were reprinted as a pamphlet in 1861, and now form + chapter iii. in 'Darwiniana' (1876), with the heading 'Natural Selection + not inconsistent with Natural Theology.'] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL Down, September 12th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I never thought of showing your letter to any one. I mentioned in a letter + to Hooker that I had been much interested by a letter of yours with + original objections, founded chiefly on Natural Selection not having done + so much as might have been expected... In your letter just received, you + have improved your case versus Natural Selection; and it would tell with + the public (do not be tempted by its novelty to make it too strong); yet + is seems to me, not REALLY very killing, though I cannot answer your case, + especially, why Rodents have not become highly developed in Australia. You + must assume that they have inhabited Australia for a very long period, and + this may or may not be the case. But I feel that our ignorance is so + profound, why one form is preserved with nearly the same structure, or + advances in organisation or even retrogrades, or becomes extinct, that I + cannot put very great weight on the difficulty. Then, as you say often in + your letter, we know not how many geological ages it may have taken to + make any great advance in organisation. Remember monkeys in the Eocene + formations: but I admit that you have made out an excellent objection and + difficulty, and I can give only unsatisfactory and quite vague answers, + such as you have yourself put; however, you hardly put weight enough on + the absolute necessity of variations first arising in the right direction, + videlicet, of seals beginning to feed on the shore. + </p> + <p> + I entirely agree with what you say about only one species of many becoming + modified. I remember this struck me much when tabulating the varieties of + plants, and I have a discussion somewhere on this point. It is absolutely + implied in my ideas of classification and divergence that only one or two + species, of even large genera, give birth to new species; and many whole + genera become WHOLLY extinct... Please see page 341 of the 'Origin.' But I + cannot remember that I have stated in the 'Origin' the fact of only very + few species in each genus varying. You have put the view much better in + your letter. Instead of saying, as I often have, that very few species + vary at the same time, I ought to have said, that very few species of a + genus EVER vary so as to become modified; for this is the fundamental + explanation of classification, and is shown in my engraved diagram... + </p> + <p> + I quite agree with you on the strange and inexplicable fact of + Ornithorhynchus having been preserved, and Australian Trigonia, or the + Silurian Lingula. I always repeat to myself that we hardly know why any + one single species is rare or common in the best-known countries. I have + got a set of notes somewhere on the inhabitants of fresh water; and it is + singular how many of these are ancient, or intermediate forms; which I + think is explained by the competition having been less severe, and the + rate of change of organic forms having been slower in small confined + areas, such as all the fresh waters make compared with sea or land. + </p> + <p> + I see that you do allude in the last page, as a difficulty, to Marsupials + not having become Placentals in Australia; but this I think you have no + right at all to expect; for we ought to look at Marsupials and Placentals + as having descended from some intermediate and lower form. The argument of + Rodents not having become highly developed in Australia (supposing that + they have long existed there) is much stronger. I grieve to see you hint + at the creation "of distinct successive types, as well as of a certain + number of distinct aboriginal types." Remember, if you admit this, you + give up the embryological argument (THE WEIGHTIEST OF ALL TO ME), and the + morphological or homological argument. You cut my throat, and your own + throat; and I believe will live to be sorry for it. So much for species. + </p> + <p> + The striking extract which E. copied was your own writing!! in a note to + me, many long years ago—which she copied and sent to Mme. Sismondi; + and lately my aunt, in sorting her letters, found E.'s and returned them + to her... I have been of late shamefully idle, i.e. observing (Drosera) + instead of writing, and how much better fun observing is than writing. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. 15 Marine Parade, Eastbourne, Sunday + [September 23rd, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I got your letter of the 18th just before starting here. You speak of + saving me trouble in answering. Never think of this, for I look at every + letter of yours as an honour and pleasure, which is a pretty deal more + than I can say of some of the letters which I receive. I have now one of + 13 CLOSELY WRITTEN FOLIO PAGES to answer on species!... + </p> + <p> + I have a very decided opinion that all mammals must have descended from a + SINGLE parent. Reflect on the multitude of details, very many of them of + extremely little importance to their habits (as the number of bones of the + head, etc., covering of hair, identical embryological development, etc. + etc.). Now this large amount of similarity I must look at as certainly due + to inheritance from a common stock. I am aware that some cases occur in + which a similar or nearly similar organ has been acquired by independent + acts of natural selection. But in most of such cases of these apparently + so closely similar organs, some important homological difference may be + detected. Please read page 193, beginning, "The electric organs," and + trust me that the sentence, "In all these cases of two very distinct + species," etc. etc., was not put in rashly, for I went carefully into + every case. Apply this argument to the whole frame, internal and external, + of mammifers, and you will see why I think so strongly that all have + descended from one progenitor. I have just re-read your letter, and I am + not perfectly sure that I understand your point. + </p> + <p> + I enclose two diagrams showing the sort of manner I CONJECTURE that + mammals have been developed. I thought a little on this when writing page + 429, beginning, "Mr. Waterhouse." (Please read the paragraph.) I have not + knowledge enough to choose between these two diagrams. If the brain of + Marsupials in embryo closely resembles that of Placentals, I should + strongly prefer No.2, and this agrees with the antiquity of Microlestes. + As a general rule I should prefer No.1 diagram; whether or not Marsupials + have gone on being developed, or rising in rank, from a very early period + would depend on circumstances too complex for even a conjecture. Lingula + has not risen since the Silurian epoch, whereas other molluscs may have + risen. + </p> + <p> + Here appear two diagrams. + </p> + <p> + Diagram I. + </p> + <p> + A - Mammals, not true Marsupials nor true Placentals. - 2 branches - + Branch I, True Placental, from which branch off Rodents, Insectivora, a + branch terminating in Ruminants and Pachyderms, Canidae and terminates in + Quadrumana. - Branch II, True Marsupial, from which branches off Kangaroo + family an unnamed branch terminating in 2 unnamed branches and terminates + in Didelphys Family. + </p> + <p> + Diagram II. + </p> + <p> + A - True Marsupials, lowly developed. - True Marsupials, highly developed. + - 2 branches - Branch I, Placentals, from which branch off Rodents, + Insectivora, a branch terminating in Ruminants and Pachyderms, Canidae and + terminates in Quadrumana. - Branch II, Present Marsupials, splitting into + two branches terminating in Kangaroo family (with 2 unnamed branches) and + Didelphys family. + </p> + <p> + A, in the two diagrams, represents an unknown form, probably intermediate + between Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds, as intermediate as Lepidosiren now + is between Fish and Batrachians. This unknown form is probably more + closely related to Ornithorhynchus than to any other known form. + </p> + <p> + I do not think that the multiple origin of dogs goes against the single + origin of man... All the races of man are so infinitely closer together + than to any ape, that (as in the case of descent of all mammals from one + progenitor), I should look at all races of men as having certainly + descended from one parent. I should look at it as probable that the races + of men were less numerous and less divergent formerly than now, unless, + indeed, some lower and more aberrant race even than the Hottentot has + become extinct. Supposing, as I do for one believe, that our dogs have + descended from two or three wolves, jackals, etc., yet these have, on OUR + VIEW, descended from a single remote unknown progenitor. With domestic + dogs the question is simply whether the whole amount of difference has + been produced since man domesticated a single species; or whether part of + the difference arises in the state of nature. Agassiz and Co. think the + negro and Caucasian are now distinct species, and it is a mere vain + discussion whether, when they were rather less distinct, they would, on + this standard of specific value, deserve to be called species. + </p> + <p> + I agree with your answer which you give to yourself on this point; and the + simile of man now keeping down any new man which might be developed, + strikes me as good and new. The white man is "improving off the face of + the earth" even races nearly his equals. With respect to islands, I think + I would trust to want of time alone, and not to bats and Rodents. + </p> + <p> + N.B.—I know of no rodents on oceanic islands (except my Galapagos + mouse, which MAY have been introduced by man) keeping down the development + of other classes. Still MUCH more weight I should attribute to there being + now, neither in islands nor elsewhere, [any] known animals of a grade of + organisation intermediate between mammals, fish, reptiles, etc., whence a + new mammal could be developed. If every vertebrate were destroyed throughout + the world, except our NOW WELL-ESTABLISHED reptiles, millions of ages + might elapse before reptiles could become highly developed on a scale + equal to mammals; and, on the principle of inheritance, they would make + some quite NEW CLASS, and not mammals; though POSSIBLY more intellectual! + I have not an idea that you will care for this letter, so speculative. + </p> + <p> + Most truly yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, September 26 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have had a letter of fourteen folio pages from Harvey against my + book, with some ingenious and new remarks; but it is an extraordinary fact + that he does not understand at all what I mean by Natural Selection. I + have begged him to read the Dialogue in next 'Silliman,' as you never + touch the subject without making it clearer. I look at it as even more + extraordinary that you never say a word or use an epithet which does not + express fully my meaning. Now Lyell, Hooker, and others, who perfectly + understand my book, yet sometimes use expressions to which I demur. Well, + your extraordinary labour is over; if there is any fair amount of truth in + my view, I am well assured that your great labour has not been thrown + away... + </p> + <p> + I yet hope and almost believe, that the time will come when you will go + further, in believing a very large amount of modification of species, than + you did at first or do now. Can you tell me whether you believe further or + more firmly than you did at first? I should really like to know this. I + can perceive in my immense correspondence with Lyell, who objected to much + at first, that he has, perhaps unconsciousnessly to himself, converted + himself very much during the last six months, and I think this is the case + even with Hooker. This fact gives me far more confidence than any other + fact. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. 15 Marine Parade, Eastbourne, Friday + evening [September 28th, 1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am very glad to hear about the Germans reading my book. No one will + be converted who has not independently begun to doubt about species. Is + not Krohn (There are two papers by Aug. Krohn, one on the Cement Glands, + and the other on the development of Cirripedes, 'Wiegmann's Archiv,' xxv. + and xxvi. My father has remarked that he "blundered dreadfully about the + cement glands," 'Autobiography.') a good fellow? I have long meant to + write to him. He has been working at Cirripedes, and has detected two or + three gigantic blunders,... about which, I thank Heaven, I spoke rather + doubtfully. Such difficult dissection that even Huxley failed. It is + chiefly the interpretation which I put on parts that is so wrong, and not + the parts which I describe. But they were gigantic blunders, and why I say + all this is because Krohn, instead of crowing at all, pointed out my + errors with the utmost gentleness and pleasantness. I have always meant to + write to him and thank him. I suppose Dr. Krohn, Bonn, would reach him. + </p> + <p> + I cannot see yet how the multiple origin of dog can be properly brought as + argument for the multiple origin of man. Is not your feeling a remnant of + the deeply impressed one on all our minds, that a species is an entity, + something quite distinct from a variety? Is it not that the dog case + injures the argument from fertility, so that one main argument that the + races of man are varieties and not species—i.e., because they are + fertile inter se, is much weakened? + </p> + <p> + I quite agree with what Hooker says, that whatever variation is possible + under culture, is POSSIBLE under nature; not that the same form would ever + be accumulated and arrived at by selection for man's pleasure, and by + natural selection for the organism's own good. + </p> + <p> + Talking of "natural selection;" if I had to commence de novo, I would have + used "natural preservation." For I find men like Harvey of Dublin cannot + understand me, though he has read the book twice. Dr. Gray of the British + Museum remarked to me that, "SELECTION was obviously impossible with + plants! No one could tell him how it could be possible!" And he may now + add that the author did not attempt it to him! + </p> + <p> + Yours ever affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. 15 Marine Parade, Eastbourne, + October 8th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I send the [English] translation of Bronn (A MS. translation of Bronn's + chapter of objections at the end of his German translation of the 'Origin + of Species.'), the first part of the chapter with generalities and praise + is not translated. There are some good hits. He makes an apparently, and + in part truly, telling case against me, says that I cannot explain why one + rat has a longer tail and another longer ears, etc. But he seems to muddle + in assuming that these parts did not all vary together, or one part so + insensibly before the other, as to be in fact contemporaneous. I might ask + the creationist whether he thinks these differences in the two rats of any + use, or as standing in some relation from laws of growth; and if he admits + this, selection might come into play. He who thinks that God created + animals unlike for mere sport or variety, as man fashions his clothes, + will not admit any force in my argumentum ad hominem. + </p> + <p> + Bronn blunders about my supposing several Glacial periods, whether or no + such ever did occur. + </p> + <p> + He blunders about my supposing that development goes on at the same rate + in all parts of the world. I presume that he has misunderstood this from + the supposed migration into all regions of the more dominant forms. + </p> + <p> + I have ordered Dr. Bree ('Species not Transmutable,' by C.R. Bree, 1860.), + and will lend it to you, if you like, and if it turns out good. + </p> + <p> + ... I am very glad that I misunderstood you about species not having the + capacity to vary, though in fact few do give birth to new species. It + seems that I am very apt to misunderstand you; I suppose I am always + fancying objections. Your case of the Red Indian shows me that we agree + entirely... + </p> + <p> + I had a letter yesterday from Thwaites of Ceylon, who was much opposed to + me. He now says, "I find that the more familiar I become with your views + in connection with the various phenomena of nature, the more they commend + themselves to my mind." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.M. RODWELL. (Rev. J.M. Rodwell, who was at + Cambridge with my father, remembers him saying:—"It strikes me that + all our knowledge about the structure of our earth is very much like what + an old hen would know of a hundred acre field, in a corner of which she is + scratching.") 15 Marine Parade, Eastbourne. November 5th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am extremely much obliged for your letter, which I can compare only to a + plum-pudding, so full it is of good things. I have been rash about the + cats ("Cats with blue eyes are invariably deaf," 'Origin of Species,' + edition i. page 12.): yet I spoke on what seemed to me, good authority. + The Rev. W.D. Fox gave me a list of cases of various foreign breeds in + which he had observed the correlation, and for years he had vainly sought + an exception. A French paper also gives numerous cases, and one very + curious case of a kitten which GRADUALLY lost the blue colour in its eyes + and as gradually acquired its power of hearing. I had not heard of your + uncle, Mr. Kirby's case (William Kirby, joint author with Spence, of the + well-known 'Introduction to Entomology,' 1818.) (whom I, for as long as I + can remember, have venerated) of care in breeding cats. I do not know + whether Mr. Kirby was your uncle by marriage, but your letters show me + that you ought to have Kirby blood in your veins, and that if you had not + taken to languages you would have been a first-rate naturalist. + </p> + <p> + I sincerely hope that you will be able to carry out your intention of + writing on the "Birth, Life, and Death of Words." Anyhow, you have a + capital title, and some think this the most difficult part of a book. I + remember years ago at the Cape of Good Hope, Sir J. Herschel saying to me, + I wish some one would treat language as Lyell has treated geology. What a + linguist you must be to translate the Koran! Having a vilely bad head for + languages, I feel an awful respect for linguists. + </p> + <p> + I do not know whether my brother-in-law, Hensleigh Wedgwood's + 'Etymological Dictionary' would be at all in your line; but he treats + briefly on the genesis of words; and, as it seems to me, very ingeniously. + You kindly say that you would communicate any facts which might occur to + you, and I am sure that I should be most grateful. Of the multitude of + letters which I receive, not one in a thousand is like yours in value. + </p> + <p> + With my cordial thanks, and apologies for this untidy letter written in + haste, pray believe me, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely obliged, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. November 20th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have not had heart to read Phillips ('Life on the Earth.') yet, or a + tremendous long hostile review by Professor Bowen in the 4to Mem. of the + American Academy of Sciences. ("Remarks on the latest form of the + Development Theory." By Francis Bowen, Professor of Natural Religion and + Moral Philosophy, at Harvard University. 'American Academy of Arts and + Sciences,' vol. viii.) (By the way, I hear Agassiz is going to thunder + against me in the next part of the 'Contributions.') Thank you for telling + me of the sale of the 'Origin,' of which I had not heard. There will be + some time, I presume, a new edition, and I especially want your advice on + one point, and you know I think you the wisest of men, and I shall be + ABSOLUTELY GUIDED BY YOUR ADVICE. It has occurred to me, that it would + PERHAPS be a good plan to put a set of notes (some twenty to forty or + fifty) to the 'Origin,' which now has none, exclusively devoted to errors + of my reviewers. It has occurred to me that where a reviewer has erred, a + common reader might err. Secondly, it will show the reader that he must + not trust implicitly to reviewers. Thirdly, when any special fact has been + attacked, I should like to defend it. I would show no sort of anger. I + enclose a mere rough specimen, done without any care or accuracy—done + from memory alone—to be torn up, just to show the sort of thing that + has occurred to me. WILL YOU DO ME THE GREAT KINDNESS TO CONSIDER THIS + WELL? + </p> + <p> + It seems to me it would have a good effect, and give some confidence to + the reader. It would [be] a horrid bore going through all the reviews. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Here follow samples of foot-notes, the references to volume and page + being left blank. It will be seen that in some cases he seems to have + forgotten that he was writing foot-notes, and to have continued as if + writing to Lyell:— + </p> + <p> + *Dr. Bree asserts that I explain the structure of the cells of the Hive + Bee by "the exploded doctrine of pressure." But I do not say one word + which directly or indirectly can be interpreted into any reference to + pressure. + </p> + <p> + *The 'Edinburgh' Reviewer quotes my work as saying that the "dorsal + vertebrae of pigeons vary in number, and disputes the fact." I nowhere + even allude to the dorsal vertebrae, only to the sacral and caudal + vertebrae. + </p> + <p> + *The 'Edinburgh' Reviewer throws a doubt on these organs being the + Branchiae of Cirripedes. But Professor Owen in 1854 admits, without + hesitation, that they are Branchiae, as did John Hunter long ago. + </p> + <p> + *The confounded Wealden Calculation to be struck out, and a note to be + inserted to the effect that I am convinced of its inaccuracy from a review + in the "Saturday Review", and from Phillips, as I see in his Table of + Contents that he alludes to it. + </p> + <p> + *Mr. Hopkins ('Fraser') states—I am quoting only from vague memory—that, + "I argue in favour of my views from the extreme imperfection of the + Geological Record," and says this is the first time in the history of + Science he has ever heard of ignorance being adduced as an argument. But I + repeatedly admit, in the most emphatic language which I can use, that the + imperfect evidence which Geology offers in regard to transitorial forms is + most strongly opposed to my views. Surely there is a wide difference in + fully admitting an objection, and then in endeavouring to show that it is + not so strong as it at first appears, and in Mr. Hopkins's assertion that + I found my argument on the Objection. + </p> + <p> + *I would also put a note to "Natural Selection," and show how variously it + has been misunderstood. + </p> + <p> + *A writer in the 'Edinburgh Philosophical Journal' denies my statement + that the Woodpecker of La Plata never frequents trees. I observed its + habits during two years, but, what is more to the purpose, Azara, whose + accuracy all admit, is more emphatic than I am in regard to its never + frequenting trees. Mr. A. Murray denies that it ought to be called a + woodpecker; it has two toes in front and two behind, pointed tail + feathers, a long pointed tongue, and the same general form of body, the + same manner of flight, colouring and voice. It was classed, until + recently, in the same genus—Picus—with all other woodpeckers, + but now has been ranked as a distinct genus amongst the Picidae. It + differs from the typical Picus only in the beak, not being quite so + strong, and in the upper mandible being slightly arched. I think these + facts fully justify my statement that it is "in all essential parts of its + organisation" a Woodpecker.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, November 22 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + For heaven's sake don't write an anti-Darwinian article; you would do it + so confoundedly well. I have sometimes amused myself with thinking how I + could best pitch into myself, and I believe I could give two or three good + digs; but I will see you — first before I will try. I shall be very + impatient to see the Review. (The first number of the new series of the + 'Nat. Hist. Review' appeared in 1861.) If it succeeds it may really do + much, very much good... + </p> + <p> + I heard to-day from Murray that I must set to work at once on a new + edition (The 3rd edition.) of the 'Origin.' [Murray] says the Reviews have + not improved the sale. I shall always think those early reviews, almost + entirely yours, did the subject an ENORMOUS service. If you have any + important suggestions or criticisms to make on any part of the 'Origin,' I + should, of course, be very grateful for [them]. For I mean to correct as + far as I can, but not enlarge. How you must be wearied with and hate the + subject, and it is God's blessing if you do not get to hate me. Adios. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, November 24th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I thank you much for your letter. I had got to take pleasure in thinking + how I could best snub my reviewers; but I was determined, in any case, to + follow your advice, and, before I had got to the end of your letter, I was + convinced of the wisdom of your advice. ("I get on slowly with my new + edition. I find that your advice was EXCELLENT. I can answer all reviews, + without any direct notice of them, by a little enlargement here and there, + with here and there a new paragraph. Bronn alone I shall treat with the + respect of giving his objections with his name. I think I shall improve my + book a good deal, and add only some twenty pages."—From a letter to + Lyell, December 4th, 1860.) What an advantage it is to me to have such + friends as you. I shall follow every hint in your letter exactly. + </p> + <p> + I have just heard from Murray; he says he sold 700 copies at his sale, and + that he has not half the number to supply; so that I must begin at once + (On the third edition of the 'Origin of Species,' published in April + 1861.)... + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I must tell you one little fact which has pleased me. You may + remember that I adduce electrical organs of fish as one of the greatest + difficulties which have occurred to me, and — notices the passage in + a singularly disingenuous spirit. Well, McDonnell, of Dublin (a first-rate + man), writes to me that he felt the difficulty of the whole case as + overwhelming against me. Not only are the fishes which have electric + organs very remote in scale, but the organ is near the head in some, and + near the tail in others, and supplied by wholly different nerves. It seems + impossible that there could be any transition. Some friend, who is much + opposed to me, seems to have crowed over McDonnell, who reports that he + said to himself, that if Darwin is right, there must be homologous organs + both near the head and tail in other non-electric fish. He set to work, + and, by Jove, he has found them! ('On an organ in the Skate, which appears + to be the homologue of the electrical organ of the Torpedo,' by R. + McDonnell, 'Nat. Hist. Review,' 1861, page 57.) so that some of the + difficulty is removed; and is it not satisfactory that my hypothetical + notions should have led to pretty discoveries? McDonnell seems very + cautious; he says, years must pass before he will venture to call himself + a believer in my doctrine, but that on the subjects which he knows well, + viz., Morphology and Embryology, my views accord well, and throw light on + the whole subject. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, November 26th, 1860. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have to thank you for two letters. The latter with corrections, written + before you received my letter asking for an American reprint, and saying + that it was hopeless to print your reviews as a pamphlet, owing to the + impossibility of getting pamphlets known. I am very glad to say that the + August or second 'Atlantic' article has been reprinted in the 'Annals and + Magazine of Natural History'; but I have not seen it there. Yesterday I + read over with care the third article; and it seems to me, as before, + ADMIRABLE. But I grieve to say that I cannot honestly go as far as you do + about Design. I am conscious that I am in an utterly hopeless muddle. I + cannot think that the world, as we see it, is the result of chance; and + yet I cannot look at each separate thing as the result of Design. To take + a crucial example, you lead me to infer (page 414) that you believe "that + variation has been led along certain beneficial lines." I cannot believe + this; and I think you would have to believe, that the tail of the Fantail + was led to vary in the number and direction of its feathers in order to + gratify the caprice of a few men. Yet if the Fantail had been a wild bird, + and had used its abnormal tail for some special end, as to sail before the + wind, unlike other birds, every one would have said, "What a beautiful and + designed adaptation." Again, I say I am, and shall ever remain, in a + hopeless muddle. + </p> + <p> + Thank you much for Bowen's 4to. review. ('Memoirs of the American Academy + of Arts and Sciences,' vol. viii.) The coolness with which he makes all + animals to be destitute of reason is simply absurd. It is monstrous at + page 103, that he should argue against the possibility of accumulative + variation, and actually leave out, entirely, selection! The chance that an + improved Short-horn, or improved Pouter-pigeon, should be produced by + accumulative variation without man's selection is as almost infinity to + nothing; so with natural species without natural selection. How capitally + in the 'Atlantic' you show that Geology and Astronomy are, according to + Bowen, Metaphysics; but he leaves out this in the 4to. Memoir. + </p> + <p> + I have not much to tell you about my Book. I have just heard that Du + Boi-Reymond agrees with me. The sale of my book goes on well, and the + multitude of reviews has not stopped the sale...; so I must begin at once + on a new corrected edition. I will send you a copy for the chance of your + ever re-reading; but, good Heavens, how sick you must be of it! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, December 2nd [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have got fairly sick of hostile reviews. Nevertheless, they have + been of use in showing me when to expatiate a little and to introduce a + few new discussions. OF COURSE I will send you a copy of the new edition. + </p> + <p> + I entirely agree with you, that the difficulties on my notions are + terrific, yet having seen what all the Reviews have said against me, I + have far more confidence in the GENERAL truth of the doctrine than I + formerly had. Another thing gives me confidence, viz. that some who went + half an inch with me now go further, and some who were bitterly opposed + are now less bitterly opposed. And this makes me feel a little + disappointed that you are not inclined to think the general view in some + slight degree more probable than you did at first. This I consider rather + ominous. Otherwise I should be more contented with your degree of belief. + I can pretty plainly see that, if my view is ever to be generally adopted, + it will be by young men growing up and replacing the old workers, and then + young ones finding that they can group facts and search out new lines of + investigation better on the notion of descent, than on that of creation. + But forgive me for running on so egotistically. Living so solitary as I + do, one gets to think in a silly manner of one's own work. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, December 11th [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I heard from A. Gray this morning; at my suggestion he is going to + reprint the three 'Atlantic' articles as a pamphlet, and send 250 copies + to England, for which I intend to pay half the cost of the whole edition, + and shall give away, and try to sell by getting a few advertisements put + in, and if possible notices in Periodicals. + </p> + <p> + ... David Forbes has been carefully working the Geology of Chile, and as I + value praise for accurate observation far higher than for any other + quality, forgive (if you can) the INSUFFERABLE vanity of my copying the + last sentence in his note: "I regard your Monograph on Chile as, without + exception, one of the finest specimens of Geological enquiry." I feel + inclined to strut like a Turkey-cock! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.III. — SPREAD OF EVOLUTION. + </h2> + <h3> + 1861-1862. + </h3> + <p> + [The beginning of the year 1861 saw my father with the third chapter of + 'The Variation of Animals and Plants' still on his hands. It had been + begun in the previous August, and was not finished until March 1861. He + was, however, for part of this time (I believe during December 1860 and + January 1861) engaged in a new edition (2000 copies) of the 'Origin,' + which was largely corrected and added to, and was published in April 1861. + </p> + <p> + With regard to this, the third edition, he wrote to Mr. Murray in December + 1860:— + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad to hear when you have decided how many copies you will + print off—the more the better for me in all ways, as far as + compatible with safety; for I hope never again to make so many + corrections, or rather additions, which I have made in hopes of making my + many rather stupid reviewers at least understand what is meant. I hope and + think I shall improve the book considerably." + </p> + <p> + An interesting feature in the new edition was the "Historical Sketch of + the Recent Progress of Opinion on the Origin of Species" (The Historical + Sketch had already appeared in the first German edition (1860) and the + American edition. Bronn states in the German edition (footnote, page 1) + that it was his critique in the 'N. Jahrbuch fur Mineralogie' that + suggested the idea of such a sketch to my father.) which now appeared for + the first time, and was continued in the later editions of the work. It + bears a strong impress of the author's personal character in the obvious + wish to do full justice to all his predecessors,—though even in this + respect it has not escaped some adverse criticism. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of the present year (1861), the final arrangements for the + first French edition of the 'Origin' were completed, and in September a + copy of the third English edition was despatched to Mdlle. Clemence Royer, + who undertook the work of translation. The book was now spreading on the + Continent, a Dutch edition had appeared, and, as we have seen, a German + translation had been published in 1860. In a letter to Mr. Murray + (September 10, 1861), he wrote, "My book seems exciting much attention in + Germany, judging from the number of discussions sent me." The silence had + been broken, and in a few years the voice of German science was to become + one of the strongest of the advocates of evolution. + </p> + <p> + During all the early part of the year (1861) he was working at the mass of + details which are marshalled in order in the early chapter of 'Animals and + Plants.' Thus in his Diary occur the laconic entries, "May 16, Finished + Fowls (eight weeks); May 31, Ducks." + </p> + <p> + On July 1, he started, with his family, for Torquay, where he remained + until August 27—a holiday which he characteristically enters in his + diary as "eight weeks and a day." The house he occupied was in Hesketh + Crescent, a pleasantly placed row of houses close above the sea, somewhat + removed from what was then the main body of the town, and not far from the + beautiful cliffed coast-line in the neighbourhood of Anstey's Cove. + </p> + <p> + During the Torquay holiday, and for the remainder of the year, he worked + at the fertilisation of orchids. This part of the year 1861 is not dealt + with in the present chapter, because (as explained in the preface) the + record of his life, as told in his letters, seems to become clearer when + the whole of his botanical work is placed together and treated separately. + The present series of chapters will, therefore, include only the progress + of his works in the direction of a general amplification of the 'Origin of + Species'—e.g., the publication of 'Animals and Plants,' 'Descent of + Man,' etc.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, January 15 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + The sight of your handwriting always rejoices the very cockles of my + heart... + </p> + <p> + I most fully agree to what you say about Huxley's Article ('Natural + History Review,' 1861, page 67, "On the Zoological Relations of Man with + the Lower Animals." This memoir had its origin in a discussion at the + previous meeting of the British Association, when Professor Huxley felt + himself "compelled to give a diametrical contradiction to certain + assertions respecting the differences which obtain between the brains of + the higher apes and of man, which fell from Professor Owen." But in order + that his criticisms might refer to deliberately recorded words, he bases + them on Professor Owen's paper, "On the Characters, etc., of the Class + Mammalia," read before the Linnean Society in February and April, 1857, in + which he proposed to place man not only in a distinct order, but in "a + distinct su-class of the Mammalia"—the Archencephala.), and the + power of writing... The whole review seems to me excellent. How capitally + Oliver has done the resume of botanical books. Good Heavens, how he must + have read!... + </p> + <p> + I quite agree that Phillips ('Life on the Earth' (1860), by Prof. + Phillips, containing the substance of the Rede Lecture (May 1860).) is + unreadably dull. You need not attempt Bree. (The following sentence (page + 16) from 'Species not Transmutable,' by Dr. Bree, illustrates the degree + in which he understood the 'Origin of Species': "The only real difference + between Mr. Darwin and his two predecessors" [Lamarck and the 'Vestiges'] + "is this:—that while the latter have each given a mode by which they + conceive the great changes they believe in have been brought about, Mr. + Darwin does no such thing." After this we need not be surprised at a + passage in the preface: "No one has derived greater pleasure than I have + in past days from the study of Mr. Darwin's other works, and no one has + felt a greater degree of regret that he should have imperilled his fame by + the publication of his treatise upon the 'Origin of Species.'")... + </p> + <p> + If you come across Dr. Freke on 'Origin of Species by means of Organic + Affinity,' read a page here and there... He tells the reader to observe + [that his result] has been arrived at by "induction," whereas all my + results are arrived at only by "analogy." I see a Mr. Neale has read a + paper before the Zoological Society on 'Typical Selection;' what it means + I know not. I have not read H. Spencer, for I find that I must more and + more husband the very little strength which I have. I sometimes suspect I + shall soon entirely fail... As soon as this dreadful weather gets a little + milder, I must try a little water cure. Have you read the 'Woman in + White'? the plot is wonderfully interesting. I can recommend a book which + has interested me greatly, viz. Olmsted's 'Journey in the Back Country.' + It is an admirably lively picture of man and slavery in the Southern + States... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. February 2, 1861. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have thought you would like to read the enclosed passage in a letter + from A. Gray (who is printing his reviews as a pamphlet ("Natural + Selection not inconsistent with Natural Theology," from the 'Atlantic + Monthly' for July, August, and October, 1860; published by Trubner.), and + will send copies to England), as I think his account is really favourable + in high degree to us:— + </p> + <p> + "I wish I had time to write you an account of the lengths to which Bowen + and Agassiz, each in their own way, are going. The first denying all + heredity (all transmission except specific) whatever. The second coming + near to deny that we are genetically descended from our + great-grea-grandfathers; and insisting that evidently affiliated + languages, e.g. Latin, Greek, Sanscrit, owe none of their similarities to + a community of origin, are all autochthonal; Agassiz admits that the + derivation of languages, and that of species or forms, stand on the same + foundation, and that he must allow the latter if he allows the former, + which I tell him is perfectly logical." + </p> + <p> + Is not this marvellous? + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 4 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to get your long chatty letter, and to hear that you are + thawing towards science. I almost wish you had remained frozen rather + longer; but do not thaw too quickly and strongly. No one can work long as + you used to do. Be idle; but I am a pretty man to preach, for I cannot be + idle, much as I wish it, and am never comfortable except when at work. The + word holiday is written in a dead language for me, and much I grieve at + it. We thank you sincerely for your kind sympathy about poor H. [his + daughter]... She has now come up to her old point, and can sometimes get + up for an hour or two twice a day... Never to look to the future or as + little as possible is becoming our rule of life. What a different thing + life was in youth with no dread in the future; all golden, if baseless, + hopes. + </p> + <p> + ... With respect to the 'Natural History Review' I can hardly think that + ladies would be so very sensitive about "lizards' guts;" but the + publication is at present certainly a sort of hybrid, and original + illustrated papers ought hardly to appear in a review. I doubt its ever + paying; but I shall much regret if it dies. All that you say seems very + sensible, but could a review in the strict sense of the word be filled + with readable matter? + </p> + <p> + I have been doing little, except finishing the new edition of the + 'Origin,' and crawling on most slowly with my volume of 'Variation under + Domestication'... + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to Mr. Bates's paper, "Contributions to an + Insect Fauna of the Amazon Valley," in the 'Transactions of the + Entomological Society,' vol.5, N.S. (The paper was read November 24, + 1860.) Mr. Bates points out that with the return, after the glacial + period, of a warmer climate in the equatorial regions, the "species then + living near the equator would retreat north and south to their former + homes, leaving some of their congeners, slowly modified subsequently... to + re-people the zone they had forsaken." In this case the species now living + at the equator ought to show clear relationship to the species inhabiting + the regions about the 25th parallel, whose distant relatives they would of + course be. But this is not the case, and this is the difficulty my father + refers to. Mr. Belt has offered an explanation in his 'Naturalist in + Nicaragua' (1874), page 266. "I believe the answer is that there was much + extermination during the glacial period, that many species (and some + genera, etc., as, for instance, the American horse), did not survive it... + but that a refuge was found for many species on lands now below the ocean, + that were uncovered by the lowering of the sea, caused by the immense + quantity of water that was locked up in frozen masses on the land."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, 27th [March 1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I had intended to have sent you Bates's article this very day. I am so + glad you like it. I have been extremely much struck with it. How well he + argues, and with what crushing force against the glacial doctrine. I + cannot wriggle out of it: I am dumbfounded; yet I do believe that some + explanation some day will appear, and I cannot give up equatorial cooling. + It explains so much and harmonises with so much. When you write (and much + interested I shall be in your letter) please say how far floras are + generally uniform in generic character from 0 to 25 degrees N. and S. + </p> + <p> + Before reading Bates, I had become thoroughly dissatisfied with what I + wrote to you. I hope you may get Bates to write in the 'Linnean.' + </p> + <p> + Here is a good joke: H.C. Watson (who, I fancy and hope, is going to + review the new edition (third edition of 2000 copies, published in April, + 1861.) of the 'Origin') says that in the first four paragraphs of the + introduction, the words "I," "me," "my," occur forty-three times! I was + dimly conscious of the accursed fact. He says it can be explained + phrenologically, which I suppose civilly means, that I am the most + egotistically self-sufficient man alive; perhaps so. I wonder whether he + will print this pleasing fact; it beats hollow the parentheses in + Wollaston's writing. + </p> + <p> + <i>I</i> am, MY dear Hooker, ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Do not spread this pleasing joke; it is rather too biting. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, [April] 23? [1861]. + </p> + <p> + ... I quite agree with what you say on Lieutenant Hutton's Review (In the + 'Geologist,' 1861, page 132, by Lieutenant Frederick Wollaston Hutton, now + Professor of Biology and Geology at Canterbury College, New Zealand.) (who + he is I know not); it struck me as very original. He is one of the very + few who see that the change of species cannot be directly proved, and that + the doctrine must sink or swim according as it groups and explains + phenomena. It is really curious how few judge it in this way, which is + clearly the right way. I have been much interested by Bentham's paper ("On + the Species and Genera of Plants, etc.," 'Natural History Review,' 1861, + page 133.) in the N.H.R., but it would not, of course, from familiarity + strike you as it did me. I liked the whole; all the facts on the nature of + close and varying species. Good Heavens! to think of the British botanists + turning up their noses, and saying that he knows nothing of British + plants! I was also pleased at his remarks on classification, because it + showed me that I wrote truly on this subject in the 'Origin.' I saw + Bentham at the Linnean Society, and had some talk with him and Lubbock, + and Edgeworth, Wallich, and several others. I asked Bentham to give us his + ideas of species; whether partially with us or dead against us, he would + write EXCELLENT matter. He made no answer, but his manner made me think he + might do so if urged; so do you attack him. Every one was speaking with + affection and anxiety of Henslow. (Prof. Henslow was in his last illness.) + I dined with Bell at the Linnean Club, and liked my dinner... Dining out + is such a novelty to me that I enjoyed it. Bell has a real good heart. I + liked Rolleston's paper, but I never read anything so obscure and not + sel-evident as his 'Canons.' (George Rolleston, M.D., F.R.S., 1829-1881. + Linacre Professor of Anatomy and Physiology at Oxford. A man of much + learning, who left but few published works, among which may be mentioned + his handbook 'Forms of Animal Life.' For the 'Canons,' see 'Nat. Hist. + Review,' 1861, page 206.)... I called on R. Chambers, at his very nice + house in St. John's Wood, and had a very pleasant half-hour's talk; he is + really a capital fellow. He made one good remark and chuckled over it, + that the laymen universally had treated the controversy on the 'Essays and + Reviews' as a merely professional subject, and had not joined in it, but + had left it to the clergy. I shall be anxious for your next letter about + Henslow. (Sir Joseph Hooker was Prof. Henslow's son-in-law.) Farewell, + with sincere sympathy, my old friend, + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—We are very much obliged for the 'London Review.' We like + reading much of it, and the science is incomparably better than in the + "Athenaeum". You shall not go on very long sending it, as you will be + ruined by pennies and trouble, but I am under a horrid spell to the + "Athenaeum" and the "Gardener's Chronicle", but I have taken them in for + so many years, that I CANNOT give them up. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter refers to Lyell's visit to the Biddenham gravel-pits near + Bedford in April 1861. The visit was made at the invitation of Mr. James + Wyatt, who had recently discovered two stone implements "at the depth of + thirteen feet from the surface of the soil," resting "immediately on solid + beds of oolitic-limestone." ('Antiquity of Man,' fourth edition, page + 214.) Here, says Sir C. Lyell, "I... for the first time, saw evidence + which satisfied me of the chronological relations of those three phenomena—the + antique tools, the extinct mammalia, and the glacial formation."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, April 12 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have been most deeply interested by your letter. You seem to have done + the grandest work, and made the greatest step, of any one with respect to + man. + </p> + <p> + It is an especial relief to hear that you think the French superficial + deposits are deltoid and semi-marine; but two days ago I was saying to a + friend, that the unknown manner of the accumulation of these deposits, + seemed the great blot in all the work done. I could not stomach debacles + or lacustrine beds. It is grand. I remember Falconer told me that he + thought some of the remains in the Devonshire caverns were pre-glacial, + and this, I presume, is now your conclusion for the older celts with hyena + and hippopotamus. It is grand. What a fine long pedigree you have given + the human race! + </p> + <p> + I am sure I never thought of parallel roads having been accumulated during + subsidence. I think I see some difficulties on this view, though, at first + reading your note, I jumped at the idea. But I will think over all I saw + there. I am (stomacho volente) coming up to London on Tuesday to work on + cocks and hens, and on Wednesday morning, about a quarter before ten, I + will call on you (unless I hear to the contrary), for I long to see you. I + congratulate you on your grand work. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Tell Lady Lyell that I was unable to digest the funereal + ceremonies of the ants, notwithstanding that Erasmus has often told me + that I should find some day that they have their bishops. After a battle I + have always seen the ants carry away the dead for food. Ants display the + utmost economy, and always carry away a dead fellow-creature as food. But + I have just forwarded two most extraordinary letters to Busk, from a + backwoodsman in Texas, who has evidently watched ants carefully, and + declares most positively that they plant and cultivate a kind of grass for + store food, and plant other bushes for shelter! I do not know what to + think, except that the old gentleman is not fibbing intentionally. I have + left the responsibility with Busk whether or no to read the letters. (I.e. + to read them before the Linnean Society.) + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THOMAS DAVIDSON. (Thomas Davidson, F.R.S., + born in Edinburgh, May 17, 1817; died 1885. His researches were chiefly + connected with the sciences of geology and palaeontology, and were + directed especially to the elucidation of the characters, classification, + history, geological and geographical distribution of recent and fossil + Brachiopoda. On this subject he brought out an important work, 'British + Fossil Brachiopoda,' 5 vols. 4to. (Cooper, 'Men of the Time,' 1884.)) + Down, April 26, 1861. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will excuse me for venturing to make a suggestion to you + which I am perfectly well aware it is a very remote chance that you would + adopt. I do not know whether you have read my 'Origin of Species'; in that + book I have made the remark, which I apprehend will be universally + admitted, that AS A WHOLE, the fauna of any formation is intermediate in + character between that of the formations above and below. But several + really good judges have remarked to me how desirable it would be that this + should be exemplified and worked out in some detail and with some single + group of beings. Now every one will admit that no one in the world could + do this better than you with Brachiopods. The result might turn out very + unfavourable to the views which I hold; if so, so much the better for + those who are opposed to me. ("Mr. Davidson is not at all a full believer + in great changes of species, which will make his work all the more + valuable.—C. Darwin to R. Chambers (April 30, 1861).) But I am + inclined to suspect that on the whole it would be favourable to the notion + of descent with modification; for about a year ago, Mr. Salter (John + William Salter; 1820- 1869. He entered the service of the Geological + Survey in 1846, and ultimately became its Palaeontologist, on the + retirement of Edward Forbes, and gave up the office in 1863. He was + associated with several well-known naturalists in their work—with + Sedgwick, Murchison, Lyell, Ramsay, and Huxley. There are sixty entries + under his name in the Royal Society Catalogue. The above facts are taken + from an obituary notice of Mr. Salter in the 'Geological Magazine,' 1869.) + in the Museum in Jermyn Street, glued on a board some Spirifers, etc., + from three palaeozoic stages, and arranged them in single and branching + lines, with horizontal lines marking the formations (like the diagram in + my book, if you know it), and the result seemed to me very striking, + though I was too ignorant fully to appreciate the lines of affinities. I + longed to have had these shells engraved, as arranged by Mr. Salter, and + connected by dotted lines, and would have gladly paid the expense: but I + could not persuade Mr. Salter to publish a little paper on the subject. I + can hardly doubt that many curious points would occur to any one + thoroughly instructed in the subject, who would consider a group of beings + under this point of view of descent with modification. All those forms + which have come down from an ancient period very slightly modified ought, + I think, to be omitted, and those forms alone considered which have + undergone considerable change at each successive epoch. My fear is whether + brachiopods have changed enough. The absolute amount of difference of the + forms in such groups at the opposite extremes of time ought to be + considered, and how far the early forms are intermediate in character + between those which appeared much later in time. The antiquity of a group + is not really diminished, as some seem vaguely to think, because it has + transmitted to the present day closely allied forms. Another point is how + far the succession of each genus is unbroken, from the first time it + appeared to its extinction, with due allowance made for formations poor in + fossils. I cannot but think that an important essay (far more important + than a hundred literary reviews) might be written by one like yourself, + and without very great labour. I know it is highly probable that you may + not have leisure, or not care for, or dislike the subject, but I trust to + your kindness to forgive me for making this suggestion. If by any + extraordinary good fortune you were inclined to take up this notion, I + would ask you to read my Chapter X. on Geological Succession. And I should + like in this case to be permitted to send you a copy of the new edition, + just published, in which I have added and corrected somewhat in Chapters + IX. and X. + </p> + <p> + Pray excuse this long letter, and believe me, My dear Sir, yours very + faithfully, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I write so bad a hand that I have had this note copied. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THOMAS DAVIDSON. Down, April 30, 1861. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you warmly for your letter; I did not in the least know that you + had attended to my work. I assure you that the attention which you have + paid to it, considering your knowledge and the philosophical tone of your + mind (for I well remember one remarkable letter you wrote to me, and have + looked through your various publications), I consider one of the highest, + perhaps the very highest, compliments which I have received. I live so + solitary a life that I do not often hear what goes on, and I should much + like to know in what work you have published some remarks on my book. I + take a deep interest in the subject, and I hope not simply an egotistical + interest; therefore you may believe how much your letter has gratified me; + I am perfectly contented if any one will fairly consider the subject, + whether or not he fully or only very slightly agrees with me. Pray do not + think that I feel the least surprise at your demurring to a ready + acceptance; in fact, I should not much respect anyone's judgment who did + so: that is, if I may judge others from the long time which it has taken + me to go round. Each stage of belief cost me years. The difficulties are, + as you say, many and very great; but the more I reflect, the more they + seem to me to be due to our underestimating our ignorance. I belong so + much to old times that I find that I weigh the difficulties from the + imperfection of the geological record, heavier than some of the younger + men. I find, to my astonishment and joy, that such good men as Ramsay, + Jukes, Geikie, and one old worker, Lyell, do not think that I have in the + least exaggerated the imperfection of the record. (Professor Sedgwick + treated this part of the 'Origin of Species' very differently, as might + have been expected from his vehement objection to Evolution in general. In + the article in the "Spectator" of March 24, 1860, already noticed, + Sedgwick wrote: "We know the complicated organic phenomena of the Mesozoic + (or Oolitic) period. It defies the transmutationist at every step. Oh! but + the document, says Darwin, is a fragment; I will interpolate long periods + to account for all the changes. I say, in reply, if you deny my + conclusion, grounded on positive evidence, I toss back your conclusion, + derived from negative evidence,—the inflated cushion on which you + try to bolster up the defects of your hypothesis." [The punctuation of the + imaginary dialogue is slightly altered from the original, which is obscure + in one place.]) If my views ever are proved true, our current geological + views will have to be considerably modified. My greatest trouble is, not + being able to weigh the direct effects of the long-continued action of + changed conditions of life without any selection, with the action of + selection on mere accidental (so to speak) variability. I oscillate much + on this head, but generally return to my belief that the direct action of + the conditions of life has not been great. At least this direct action can + have played an extremely small part in producing all the numberless and + beautiful adaptations in every living creature. With respect to a person's + belief, what does rather surprise me is that any one (like Carpenter) + should be willing TO GO SO VERY FAR as to believe that all birds may have + descended from one parent, and not go a little farther and include all the + members of the same great division; for on such a scale of belief, all the + facts in Morphology and in Embryology (the most important in my opinion of + all subjects) become mere Divine mockeries... I cannot express how + profoundly glad I am that some day you will publish your theoretical view + on the modification and endurance of Brachiopodous species; I am sure it + will be a most valuable contribution to knowledge. + </p> + <p> + Pray forgive this very egotistical letter, but you yourself are partly to + blame for having pleased me so much. I have told Murray to send a copy of + my new edition to you, and have written your name. + </p> + <p> + With cordial thanks, pray believe me, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In Mr. Davidson's Monograph on British Brachiopoda, published shortly + afterwards by the Palaeontographical Society, results such as my father + anticipated were to some extent obtained. "No less than fifteen commonly + received species are demonstrated by Mr. Davidson by the aid of a long + series of transitional forms to appertain to... one type." "Lyell, + 'Antiquity of Man,' first edition, page 428.) + </p> + <p> + In the autumn of 1860, and the early part of 1861, my father had a good + deal of correspondence with Professor Asa Gray on a subject to which + reference has already been made—the publication in the form of a + pamphlet, of Professor Gray's three articles in the July, August, and + October numbers of the 'Atlantic Monthly,' 1860. The pamphlet was + published by Messrs. Trubner, with reference to whom my father wrote, + "Messrs. Trubner have been most liberal and kind, and say they shall make + no charge for all their trouble. I have settled about a few + advertisements, and they will gratuitously insert one in their own + periodicals." + </p> + <p> + The reader will find these articles republished in Dr. Gray's + 'Darwiniana,' page 87, under the title "Natural Selection not inconsistent + with Natural Theology." The pamphlet found many admirers among those most + capable of judging of its merits, and my father believed that it was of + much value in lessening opposition, and making converts to Evolution. His + high opinion of it is shown not only in his letters, but by the fact that + he inserted a special notice of it in a most prominent place in the third + edition of the 'Origin.' Lyell, among others, recognised its value as an + antidote to the kind of criticism from which the cause of Evolution + suffered. Thus my father wrote to Dr. Gray:—"Just to exemplify the + use of your pamphlet, the Bishop of London was asking Lyell what he + thought of the review in the 'Quarterly,' and Lyell answered, 'Read Asa + Gray in the 'Atlantic.'". It comes out very clearly that in the case of + such publications as Dr. Gray's, my father did not rejoice over the + success of his special view of Evolution, viz. that modification is mainly + due to Natural Selection; on the contrary, he felt strongly that the + really important point was that the doctrine of Descent should be + accepted. Thus he wrote to Professor Gray (May 11, 1863), with reference + to Lyell's 'Antiquity of Man':— + </p> + <p> + "You speak of Lyell as a judge; now what I complain of is that he declines + to be a judge... I have sometimes almost wished that Lyell had pronounced + against me. When I say 'me,' I only mean CHANGE OF SPECIES BY DESCENT. + That seems to me the turning-point. Personally, of course, I care much + about Natural Selection; but that seems to me utterly unimportant, + compared to the question of Creation OR Modification."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, April 11 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I was very glad to get your photograph: I am expecting mine, which I will + send off as soon as it comes. It is an ugly affair, and I fear the fault + does not lie with the photographer... Since writing last, I have had + several letters full of the highest commendation of your Essay; all agree + that it is by far the best thing written, and I do not doubt it has done + the 'Origin' much good. I have not yet heard how it has sold. You will + have seen a review in the "Gardeners' Chronicle". Poor dear Henslow, to + whom I owe much, is dying, and Hooker is with him. Many thanks for two + sets of sheets of your Proceedings. I cannot understand what Agassiz is + driving at. You once spoke, I think, of Professor Bowen as a very clever + man. I should have thought him a singularly unobservant man from his + writings. He never can have seen much of animals, or he would have seen + the difference of old and wise dogs and young ones. His paper about + hereditariness beats everything. Tell a breeder that he might pick out his + worst INDIVIDUAL animals and breed from them, and hope to win a prize, and + he would think you... insane. + </p> + <p> + [Professor Henslow died on May 16, 1861, from a complication of + bronchitis, congestion of the lungs, and enlargement of the heart. His + strong constitution was slow in giving way, and he lingered for weeks in a + painful condition of weakness, knowing that his end was near, and looking + at death with fearless eyes. In Mr. Blomefield's (Jenyns) 'Memoir of + Henslow' (1862) is a dignified and touching description of Prof. + Sedgwick's farewell visit to his old friend. Sedgwick said afterwards that + he had never seen "a human being whose soul was nearer heaven." + </p> + <p> + My father wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker on hearing of Henslow's death, "I fully + believe a better man never walked this earth." + </p> + <p> + He gave his impressions of Henslow's character in Mr. Blomefield's + 'Memoir.' In reference to these recollections he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker + (May 30, 1861):— + </p> + <p> + "This morning I wrote my recollections and impressions of character of + poor dear Henslow about the year 1830. I liked the job, and so have + written four or five pages, now being copied. I do not suppose you will + use all, of course you can chop and change as much as you like. If more + than a sentence is used, I should like to see a proof-page, as I never can + write decently till I see it in print. Very likely some of my remarks may + appear too trifling, but I thought it best to give my thoughts as they + arose, for you or Jenyns to use as you think fit. + </p> + <p> + "You will see that I have exceeded your request, but, as I said when I + began, I took pleasure in writing my impression of his admirable + character."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 5 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have been rather extra busy, so have been slack in answering your note + of May 6th. I hope you have received long ago the third edition of the + 'Origin.'... I have heard nothing from Trubner of the sale of your Essay, + hence fear it has not been great; I wrote to say you could supply more. I + send a copy to Sir J. Herschel, and in his new edition of his 'Physical + Geography' he has a note on the 'Origin of Species,' and agrees, to a + certain limited extent, but puts in a caution on design—much like + yours... I have been led to think more on this subject of late, and grieve + to say that I come to differ more from you. It is not that designed + variation makes, as it seems to me, my deity "Natural Selection" + superfluous, but rather from studying, lately, domestic variation, and + seeing what an enormous field of undesigned variability there is ready for + natural selection to appropriate for any purpose useful to each creature. + </p> + <p> + I thank you much for sending me your review of Phillips. ('Life on the + Earth,' 1860.) I remember once telling you a lot of trades which you ought + to have followed, but now I am convinced that you are a born reviewer. By + Jove, how well and often you hit the nail on the head! You rank Phillips's + book higher than I do, or than Lyell does, who thinks it fearfully + retrograde. I amused myself by parodying Phillips's argument as applied to + domestic variation; and you might thus prove that the duck or pigeon has + not varied because the goose has not, though more anciently domesticated, + and no good reason can be assigned why it has not produced many varieties + ... + </p> + <p> + I never knew the newspapers so profoundly interesting. North America does + not do England justice; I have not seen or heard of a soul who is not with + the North. Some few, and I am one of them, even wish to God, though at the + loss of millions of lives, that the North would proclaim a crusade against + slavery. In the long-run, a million horrid deaths would be amply repaid in + the cause of humanity. What wonderful times we live in! Massachusetts + seems to show noble enthusiasm. Great God! How I should like to see the + greatest curse on earth—slavery—abolished! + </p> + <p> + Farewell. Hooker has been absorbed with poor dear revered Henslow's + affairs. Farewell. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + HUGH FALCONER TO CHARLES DARWIN. 31 Sackville St., W., June 23, 1861. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I have been to Adelsberg cave and brought back with me a live Proteus + anguinus, designed for you from the moment I got it; i.e. if you have got + an aquarium and would care to have it. I only returned last night from the + continent, and hearing from your brother that you are about to go to + Torquay, I lose no time in making you the offer. The poor dear animal is + still alive—although it has had no appreciable means of sustenance + for a month—and I am most anxious to get rid of the responsibility + of starving it longer. In your hands it will thrive and have a fair chance + of being developed without delay into some type of the Columbidae—say + a Pouter or a Tumbler. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, I have been rambling through the north of Italy, and + Germany lately. Everywhere have I heard your views and your admirable + essay canvassed—the views of course often dissented from, according + to the special bias of the speaker—but the work, its honesty of + purpose, grandeur of conception, felicity of illustration, and courageous + exposition, always referred to in terms of the highest admiration. And + among your warmest friends no one rejoiced more heartily in the just + appreciation of Charles Darwin than did + </p> + <p> + Yours very truly, H. FALCONER. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO HUGH FALCONER. Down [June 24, 1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Falconer, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your note, and by good luck a day earlier than + properly, and I lose not a moment in answering you, and thanking you + heartily for your offer of the valuable specimen; but I have no aquarium + and shall soon start for Torquay, so that it would be a thousand pities + that I should have it. Yet I should certainly much like to see it, but I + fear it is impossible. Would not the Zoological Society be the best place? + and then the interest which many would take in this extraordinary animal + would repay you for your trouble. + </p> + <p> + Kind as you have been in taking this trouble and offering me this + specimen, to tell the truth I value your note more than the specimen. I + shall keep your note amongst a very few precious letters. Your kindness + has quite touched me. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately and gratefully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. 2 Hesketh Crescent, Torquay, July + 13 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + ... I hope Harvey is better; I got his review (The 'Dublin Hospital + Gazette,' May 15, 1861. The passage referred to is at page 150.) of me a + day or two ago, from which I infer he must be convalescent; it's very good + and fair; but it is funny to see a man argue on the succession of animals + from Noah's Deluge; as God did not then wholly destroy man, probably he + did not wholly destroy the races of other animals at each geological + period! I never expected to have a helping hand from the Old Testament... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. 2, Hesketh Crescent, Torquay, July + 20 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I sent you two or three days ago a duplicate of a good review of the + 'Origin' by a Mr. Maw (Mr. George Maw, of Benthall Hall. The review was + published in the 'Zoologist,' July, 1861. On the back of my father's copy + is written, "Must be consulted before new edit. of 'Origin'"—words + which are wanting on many more pretentious notices, on which frequently + occur my father's brief o/-, or "nothing new."), evidently a thoughtful + man, as I thought you might like to have it, as you have so many... + </p> + <p> + This is quite a charming place, and I have actually walked, I believe, + good two miles out and back, which is a grand feat. + </p> + <p> + I saw Mr. Pengelly (William Pengelly, the geologist, and well-known + explorer of the Devonshire caves.) the other day, and was pleased at his + enthusiasm. I do not in the least know whether you are in London. Your + illness must have lost you much time, but I hope you have nearly got your + great job of the new edition finished. You must be very busy, if in + London, so I will be generous, and on honour bright do not expect any + answer to this dull little note... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, September 17 [1861?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for your very long and interesting letter, political + and scientific, of August 27th and 29th, and September 2nd received this + morning. I agree with much of what you say, and I hope to God we English + are utterly wrong in doubting (1) whether the N. can conquer the S.; (2) + whether the N. has many friends in the South, and (3) whether you noble + men of Massachusetts are right in transferring your own good feelings to + the men of Washington. Again I say I hope to God we are wrong in doubting + on these points. It is number (3) which alone causes England not to be + enthusiastic with you. What it may be in Lancashire I know not, but in S. + England cotton has nothing whatever to do with our doubts. If abolition + does follow with your victory, the whole world will look brighter in my + eyes, and in many eyes. It would be a great gain even to stop the spread + of slavery into the Territories; if that be possible without abolition, + which I should have doubted. You ought not to wonder so much at England's + coldness, when you recollect at the commencement of the war how many + propositions were made to get things back to the old state with the old + line of latitude, but enough of this, all I can say is that Massachusetts + and the adjoining States have the full sympathy of every good man whom I + see; and this sympathy would be extended to the whole Federal States, if + we could be persuaded that your feelings were at all common to them. But + enough of this. It is out of my line, though I read every word of news, + and formerly well studied Olmsted... + </p> + <p> + Your question what would convince me of Design is a poser. If I saw an + angel come down to teach us good, and I was convinced from others seeing + him that I was not mad, I should believe in design. If I could be + convinced thoroughly that life and mind was in an unknown way a function + of other imponderable force, I should be convinced. If man was made of + brass or iron and no way connected with any other organism which had ever + lived, I should perhaps be convinced. But this is childish writing. + </p> + <p> + I have lately been corresponding with Lyell, who, I think, adopts your + idea of the stream of variation having been led or designed. I have asked + him (and he says he will hereafter reflect and answer me) whether he + believes that the shape of my nose was designed. If he does I have nothing + more to say. If not, seeing what Fanciers have done by selecting + individual differences in the nasal bones of pigeons, I must think that it + is illogical to suppose that the variations, which natural selection + preserves for the good of any being have been designed. But I know that I + am in the same sort of muddle (as I have said before) as all the world + seems to be in with respect to free will, yet with everything supposed to + have been foreseen or pre-ordained. + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my dear Gray, with many thanks for your interesting letter. + </p> + <p> + Your unmerciful correspondent. C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.W. BATES. Down, December 3 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your extremely interesting letter, and valuable + references, though God knows when I shall come again to this part of my + subject. One cannot of course judge of style when one merely hears a paper + (On Mimetic Butterflies, read before the Linnean Soc., November 21, 1861. + For my father's opinion of it when published, see below.), but yours + seemed to me very clear and good. Believe me that I estimate its value + most highly. Under a general point of view, I am quite convinced (Hooker + and Huxley took the same view some months ago) that a philosophic view of + nature can solely be driven into naturalists by treating special subjects + as you have done. Under a special point of view, I think you have solved + one of the most perplexing problems which could be given to solve. I am + glad to hear from Hooker that the Linnean Society will give plates if you + can get drawings... + </p> + <p> + Do not complain of want of advice during your travels; I dare say part of + your great originality of views may be due to the necessity of + sel-exertion of thought. I can understand that your reception at the + British Museum would damp you; they are a very good set of men, but not + the sort to appreciate your work. In fact I have long thought that TOO + MUCH systematic work [and] description somehow blunts the faculties. The + general public appreciates a good dose of reasoning, or generalisation, + with new and curious remarks on habits, final causes, etc. etc., far more + than do the regular naturalists. + </p> + <p> + I am extremely glad to hear that you have begun your travels... I am very + busy, but I shall be TRULY glad to render any aid which I can by reading + your first chapter or two. I do not think I shall be able to correct + style, for this reason, that after repeated trials I find I cannot correct + my own style till I see the MS. in type. Some are born with a power of + good writing, like Wallace; others like myself and Lyell have to labour + very hard and slowly at every sentence. I find it a very good plan, when I + cannot get a difficult discussion to please me, to fancy that some one + comes into the room and asks me what I am doing; and then try at once and + explain to the imaginary person what it is all about. I have done this for + one paragraph to myself several times, and sometimes to Mrs. Darwin, till + I see how the subject ought to go. It is, I think, good to read one's MS. + aloud. But style to me is a great difficulty; yet some good judges think I + have succeeded, and I say this to encourage you. + </p> + <p> + What I THINK I can do will be to tell you whether parts had better be + shortened. It is good, I think, to dash "in media res," and work in later + any descriptions of country or any historical details which may be + necessary. Murray likes lots of wood-cuts—give some by all means of + ants. The public appreciate monkeys—our poor cousins. What sexual + differences are there in monkeys? Have you kept them tame? if so, about + their expression. I fear that you will hardly read my vile hand-writing, + but I cannot without killing trouble write better. + </p> + <p> + You shall have my candid opinion on your MS., but remember it is hard to + judge from MS., one reads slowly, and heavy parts seem much heavier. A + first-rate judge thought my Journal very poor; now that it is in print, I + happen to know, he likes it. I am sure you will understand why I am so + egotistical. + </p> + <p> + I was a LITTLE disappointed in Wallace's book ('Travels on the Amazon and + Rio Negro,' 1853.) on the Amazon; hardly facts enough. On the other hand, + in Gosse's book (Probably the 'Naturalist's Sojourn in Jamaica,' 1851.) + there is not reasoning enough to my taste. Heaven knows whether you will + care to read all this scribbling... + </p> + <p> + I am glad you had a pleasant day with Hooker (In a letter to Sir J.D. + Hooker (December 1861), my father wrote: "I am very glad to hear that you + like Bates. I have seldom in my life been more struck with a man's power + of mind."), he is an admirably good man in every sense. + </p> + <p> + [The following extract from a letter to Mr. Bates on the same subject is + interesting as giving an idea of the plan followed by my father in writing + his 'Naturalist's Voyage:' + </p> + <p> + "As an old hackneyed author, let me give you a bit of advice, viz. to + strike out every word which is not quite necessary to the current subject, + and which could not interest a stranger. I constantly asked myself, would + a stranger care for this? and struck out or left in accordingly. I think + too much pains cannot be taken in making the style transparently clear and + throwing eloquence to the dogs." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bates's book, 'The Naturalist on the Amazons,' was published in 1865, + but the following letter may be given here rather than in its due + chronological position:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.W. BATES. Down, April 18, 1863. + </p> + <p> + Dear Bates, + </p> + <p> + I have finished volume i. My criticisms may be condensed into a single + sentence, namely, that it is the best work of Natural History Travels ever + published in England. Your style seems to me admirable. Nothing can be + better than the discussion on the struggle for existence, and nothing + better than the description of the Forest scenery. (In a letter to Lyell + my father wrote: "He [i.e. Mr. Bates] is second only to Humboldt in + describing a tropical forest.") It is a grand book, and whether or not it + sells quickly, it will last. You have spoken out boldly on Species; and + boldness on the subject seems to get rarer and rarer. How beautifully + illustrated it is. The cut on the back is most tasteful. I heartily + congratulate you on its publication. + </p> + <p> + The "Athenaeum" ("I have read the first volume of Bates's Book; it is + capital, and I think the best Natural History Travels ever published in + England. He is bold about Species, etc., and the "Athenaeum" coolly says + 'he bends his facts' for this purpose."—(From a letter to Sir J.D. + Hooker.)) was rather cold, as it always is, and insolent in the highest + degree about your leading facts. Have you seen the "Reader"? I can send it + to you if you have not seen it... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, December 11 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Many and cordial thanks for your two last most valuable notes. What a + thing it is that when you receive this we may be at war, and we two be + bound, as good patriots, to hate each other, though I shall find this + hating you very hard work. How curious it is to see two countries, just + like two angry and silly men, taking so opposite a view of the same + transaction! I fear there is no shadow of doubt we shall fight if the two + Southern rogues are not given up. (The Confederate Commissioners Slidell + and Mason were forcibly removed from the "Trent", a West India mail + steamer on November 8, 1861. The news that the U.S. agreed to release them + reached England on January 8, 1862.) And what a wretched thing it will be + if we fight on the side of slavery. No doubt it will be said that we fight + to get cotton; but I fully believe that this has not entered into the + motive in the least. Well, thank Heaven, we private individuals have + nothing to do with so awful a responsibility. Again, how curious it is + that you seem to think that you can conquer the South; and I never meet a + soul, even those who would most wish it, who thinks it possible—that + is, to conquer and retain it. I do not suppose the mass of people in your + country will believe it, but I feel sure if we do go to war it will be + with the utmost reluctance by all classes, Ministers of Government and + all. Time will show, and it is no use writing or thinking about it. I + called the other day on Dr. Boott, and was pleased to find him pretty well + and cheerful. I see, by the way, he takes quite an English opinion of + American affairs, though an American in heart. (Dr. Boott was born in the + U.S.) Buckle might write a chapter on opinion being entirely dependent on + longitude! + </p> + <p> + ... With respect to Design, I feel more inclined to show a white flag than + to fire my usual long-range shot. I like to try and ask you a puzzling + question, but when you return the compliment I have great doubts whether + it is a fair way of arguing. If anything is designed, certainly man must + be: one's "inner consciousness" (though a false guide) tells one so; yet I + cannot admit that man's rudimentary mammae... were designed. If I was to + say I believed this, I should believe it in the same incredible manner as + the orthodox believe the Trinity in Unity. You say that you are in a haze; + I am in thick mud; the orthodox would say in fetid, abominable mud; yet I + cannot keep out of the question. My dear Gray, I have written a deal of + nonsense. + </p> + <p> + Yours most cordially, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + 1862. + </p> + <p> + [Owing to the illness from scarlet fever of one of his boys, he took a + house at Bournemouth in the autumn. He wrote to Dr. Gray from Southampton + (August 21, 1862):— + </p> + <p> + "We are a wretched family, and ought to be exterminated. We slept here to + rest our poor boy on his journey to Bournemouth, and my poor dear wife + sickened with scarlet fever, and has had it pretty sharply, but is + recovering well. There is no end of trouble in this weary world. I shall + not feel safe till we are all at home together, and when that will be I + know not. But it is foolish complaining." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Gray used to send postage stamps to the scarlet fever patient; with + regard to this good-natured deed my father wrote— + </p> + <p> + "I must just recur to stamps; my little man has calculated that he will + now have 6 stamps which no other boy in the school has. Here is a triumph. + Your last letter was plaistered with many coloured stamps, and he long + surveyed the envelope in bed with much quiet satisfaction." + </p> + <p> + The greater number of the letters of 1862 deal with the Orchid work, but + the wave of conversion to Evolution was still spreading, and reviews and + letters bearing on the subject still came in numbers. As an example of the + odd letters he received may be mentioned one which arrived in January of + this year "from a German homoeopathic doctor, an ardent admirer of the + 'Origin.' Had himself published nearly the same sort of book, but goes + much deeper. Explains the origin of plants and animals on the principles + of homoeopathy or by the law of spirality. Book fell dead in Germany. + Therefore would I translate it and publish it in England."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, [January?] 14 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + I am heartily glad of your success in the North (This refers to two of Mr. + Huxley's lectures, given before the Philosophical Institution of Edinburgh + in 1862. The substance of them is given in 'Man's Place in Nature.'), and + thank you for your note and slip. By Jove you have attacked Bigotry in its + stronghold. I thought you would have been mobbed. I am so glad that you + will publish your Lectures. You seem to have kept a due medium between + extreme boldness and caution. I am heartily glad that all went off so + well. I hope Mrs. Huxley is pretty well... I must say one word on the + Hybrid question. No doubt you are right that here is a great hiatus in the + argument; yet I think you overrate it—you never allude to the + excellent evidence of VARIETIES of Verbascum and Nicotiana being partially + sterile together. It is curious to me to read (as I have to-day) the + greatest crossing GARDENER utterly pooh-poohing the distinction which + BOTANISTS make on this head, and insisting how frequently crossed + VARIETIES produce sterile offspring. Do oblige me by reading the latter + half of my Primula paper in the 'Linn. Journal,' for it leads me to + suspect that sterility will hereafter have to be largely viewed as an + acquired or SELECTED character—a view which I wish I had had facts + to maintain in the 'Origin.' (The view here given will be discussed in the + chapter on hetero-styled plants.) + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, January 25 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for your last Sunday's letter, which was one of the + pleasantest I ever received in my life. We are all pretty well redivivus, + and I am at work again. I thought it best to make a clean breast to Asa + Gray; and told him that the Boston dinner, etc. etc., had quite turned my + stomach, and that I almost thought it would be good for the peace of the + world if the United States were split up; on the other hand, I said that I + groaned to think of the slave-holders being triumphant, and that the + difficulties of making a line of separation were fearful. I wonder what he + will say... Your notion of the Aristocrat being kenspeckle, and the best + men of a good lot being thus easily selected is new to me, and striking. + The 'Origin' having made you in fact a jolly old Tory, made us all laugh + heartily. I have sometimes speculated on this subject; primogeniture (My + father had a strong feeling as to the injustice of primogeniture, and in a + similar spirit was often indignant over the unfair wills that appear from + time to time. He would declare energetically that if he were law-giver no + will should be valid that was not published in the testator's lifetime; + and this he maintained would prevent much of the monstrous injustice and + meanness apparent in so many wills.) is dreadfully opposed to selection; + suppose the first-born bull was necessarily made by each farmer the + begetter of his stock! On the other hand, as you say, ablest men are + continually raised to the peerage, and get crossed with the older + Lord-breeds, and the Lords continually select the most beautiful and + charming women out of the lower ranks; so that a good deal of indirect + selection improves the Lords. Certainly I agree with you the present + American row has a very Torifying influence on us all. I am very glad to + hear you are beginning to print the 'Genera;' it is a wonderful + satisfaction to be thus brought to bed, indeed it is one's chief + satisfaction, I think, though one knows that another bantling will soon be + developing... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MAXWELL MASTERS. (Dr. Masters is a well-known + vegetable teratologist, and has been for many years the editor of the + "Gardeners' Chronicle".) Down, February 26 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am much obliged to you for sending me your article (Refers to a paper on + "Vegetable Morphology," by Dr. Masters, in the 'British and Foreign + Medic-Chirurgical Review' for 1862), which I have just read with much + interest. The history, and a good deal besides, was quite new to me. It + seems to me capitally done, and so clearly written. You really ought to + write your larger work. You speak too generously of my book; but I must + confess that you have pleased me not a little; for no one, as far as I + know, has ever remarked on what I say on classification—a part, + which when I wrote it, pleased me. With many thanks to you for sending me + your article, pray believe me, + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the spring of this year (1862) my father read the second volume of + Buckle's 'History of Civilisation." The following strongly expressed + opinion about it may be worth quoting:— + </p> + <p> + "Have you read Buckle's second volume? It has interested me greatly; I do + not care whether his views are right or wrong, but I should think they + contained much truth. There is a noble love of advancement and truth + throughout; and to my taste he is the very best writer of the English + language that ever lived, let the other be who he may."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, March 15 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Thanks for the newspapers (though they did contain digs at England), and + for your note of February 18th. It is really almost a pleasure to receive + stabs from so smooth, polished, and sharp a dagger as your pen. I heartily + wish I could sympathise more fully with you, instead of merely hating the + South. We cannot enter into your feelings; if Scotland were to rebel, I + presume we should be very wrath, but I do not think we should care a penny + what other nations thought. The millennium must come before nations love + each other; but try and do not hate me. Think of me, if you will as a poor + blinded fool. I fear the dreadful state of affairs must dull your interest + in Science... + </p> + <p> + I believe that your pamphlet has done my book GREAT good; and I thank you + from my heart for myself; and believing that the views are in large part + true, I must think that you have done natural science a good turn. Natural + Selection seems to be making a little progress in England and on the + Continent; a new German edition is called for, and a French (In June, + 1862, my father wrote to Dr. Gray: "I received, 2 or 3 days ago, a French + translation of the 'Origin,' by a Madlle. Royer, who must be one of the + cleverest and oddest women in Europe: is an ardent Deist, and hates + Christianity, and declares that natural selection and the struggle for + life will explain all morality, nature of man, politics, etc. etc.! She + makes some very curious and good hits, and says she shall publish a book + on these subjects." Madlle. Royer added foot-notes to her translation, and + in many places where the author expresses great doubt, she explains the + difficulty, or points out that no real difficulty exists.) one has just + appeared. One of the best men, though at present unknown, who has taken up + these views, is Mr. Bates; pray read his 'Travels in Amazonia,' when they + appear; they will be very good, judging from MS. of the first two + chapters. + </p> + <p> + ... Again I say, do not hate me. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. 1 Carlton Terrace, Southampton (The + house of his son William.), August 22, [1862]. + </p> + <p> + ... I heartily hope that you (I.e. 'The Antiquity of Man.') will be out in + October... you say that the Bishop and Owen will be down on you; the + latter hardly can, for I was assured that Owen in his Lectures this spring + advanced as a new idea that wingless birds had lost their wings by disuse, + also that magpies stole spoons, etc., from a REMNANT of some instinct like + that of the Bower-Bird, which ornaments its playing-passage with pretty + feathers. Indeed, I am told that he hinted plainly that all birds are + descended from one... + </p> + <p> + Your P.S. touches on, as it seems to me, very difficult points. I am glad + to see [that] in the 'Origin,' I only say that the naturalists generally + consider that low organisms vary more than high; and this I think + certainly is the general opinion. I put the statement this way to show + that I considered it only an opinion probably true. I must own that I do + not at all trust even Hooker's contrary opinion, as I feel pretty sure + that he has not tabulated any result. I have some materials at home, I + think I attempted to make this point out, but cannot remember the result. + </p> + <p> + Mere variability, though the necessary foundation of all modifications, I + believe to be almost always present, enough to allow of any amount of + selected change; so that it does not seem to me at all incompatible that a + group which at any one period (or during all successive periods) varies + less, should in the long course of time have undergone more modification + than a group which is generally more variable. + </p> + <p> + Placental animals, e.g. might be at each period less variable than + Marsupials, and nevertheless have undergone more DIFFERENTIATION and + development than marsupials, owing to some advantage, probably brain + development. + </p> + <p> + I am surprised, but do not pretend to form an opinion at Hooker's + statement that higher species, genera, etc., are best limited. It seems to + me a bold statement. + </p> + <p> + Looking to the 'Origin,' I see that I state that the productions of the + land seem to change quicker than those of the sea (Chapter X., page 339, + 3d edition), and I add there is some reason to believe that organisms + considered high in the scale change quicker than those that are low. I + remember writing these sentences after much deliberation... I remember + well feeling much hesitation about putting in even the guarded sentences + which I did. My doubts, I remember, related to the rate of change of the + Radiata in the Secondary formation, and of the Foraminifera in the oldest + Tertiary beds... + </p> + <p> + Good night, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, October 1 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + ... I found here (On his return from Bournemouth.) a short and very kind + note of Falconer, with some pages of his 'Elephant Memoir,' which will be + published, in which he treats admirably on long persistence of type. I + thought he was going to make a good and crushing attack on me, but to my + great satisfaction, he ends by pointing out a loophole, and adds + (Falconer, "On the American Fossil Elephant," in the 'Nat. Hist. Review,' + 1863, page 81. The words preceding those cited by my father make the + meaning of his quotation clearer. The passage begins as follows: "The + inferences which I draw from these facts are not opposed to one of the + leading propositions of Darwin's theory. With him," etc. etc.) "with him I + have no faith that the mammoth and other extinct elephants made their + appearance suddenly... The most rational view seems to be that they are + the modified descendants of earlier progenitors, etc." This is capital. + There will not be soon one good palaeontologist who believes in + immutability. Falconer does not allow for the Proboscidean group being a + failing one, and therefore not likely to be giving off new races. + </p> + <p> + He adds that he does not think Natural Selection suffices. I do not quite + see the force of his argument, and he apparently overlooks that I say over + and over again that Natural Selection can do nothing without variability, + and that variability is subject to the most complex fixed laws... + </p> + <p> + [In his letters to Sir J.D. Hooker, about the end of this year, are + occasional notes on the progress of the 'Variation of Animals and Plants.' + Thus on November 24th he wrote: "I hardly know why I am a little sorry, + but my present work is leading me to believe rather more in the direct + action of physical conditions. I presume I regret it, because it lessens + the glory of natural selection, and is so confoundedly doubtful. Perhaps I + shall change again when I get all my facts under one point of view, and a + pretty hard job this will be." + </p> + <p> + Again, on December 22nd, "To-day I have begun to think of arranging my + concluding chapters on Inheritance, Reversion, Selection, and such things, + and am fairly paralyzed how to begin and how to end, and what to do, with + my huge piles of materials."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, November 6 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + When your note of October 4th and 13th (chiefly about Max Muller) arrived, + I was nearly at the end of the same book ('Lectures on the Science of + Language,' 1st edition 1861.), and had intended recommending you to read + it. I quite agree that it is extremely interesting, but the latter part + about the FIRST origin of language much the least satisfactory. It is a + marvellous problem...[There are] covert sneers at me, which he seems to + get the better of towards the close of the book. I cannot quite see how it + will forward "my cause," as you call it; but I can see how any one with + literary talent (I do not feel up to it) could make great use of the + subject in illustration. (Language was treated in the manner here + indicated by Sir C. Lyell in the 'Antiquity of Man.' Also by Prof. + Schleicher, whose pamphlet was fully noticed in the "Reader", February 27, + 1864 (as I learn from one of Prof. Huxley's 'Lay Sermons').) What pretty + metaphors you would make from it! I wish some one would keep a lot of the + most noisy monkeys, half free, and study their means of communication! + </p> + <p> + A book has just appeared here which will, I suppose, make a noise, by + Bishop Colenso ('The Pentateuch and Book of Joshua critically examined,' + six parts, 1862-71.), who, judging from extracts, smashes most of the Old + testament. Talking of books, I am in the middle of one which pleases me, + though it is very innocent food, viz., Miss Coopers 'Journal of a + Naturalist.' Who is she? She seems a very clever woman, and gives a + capital account of the battle between OUR and YOUR weeds. Does it not hurt + your Yankee pride that we thrash you so confoundedly? I am sure Mrs. Gray + will stick up for your own weeds. Ask her whether they are not more + honest, downright good sort of weeds. The book gives an extremely pretty + picture of one of your villages; but I see your autumn, though so much + more gorgeous than ours, comes on sooner, and that is one comfort... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.W. BATES. Down, November 20 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Bates, + </p> + <p> + I have just finished, after several reads, your paper. (This refers to Mr. + Bates's paper, "Contributions to an Insect Fauna of the Amazons Valley" + ('Linn. Soc. Trans.' xxiii., 1862), in which the now familiar subject of + mimicry was founded. My father wrote a short review of it in the 'Natural + History Review,' 1863, page 219, parts of which occur in this review + almost verbatim in the later editions of the 'Origin of Species.' A + striking passage occurs showing the difficulties of the case from a + creationist's point of view:— + </p> + <p> + "By what means, it may be asked, have so many butterflies of the Amazonian + region acquired their deceptive dress? Most naturalists will answer that + they were thus clothed from the hour of their creation—an answer + which will generally be so far triumphant that it can be met only by + long-drawn arguments; but it is made at the expense of putting an + effectual bar to all further enquiry. In this particular case, moreover, + the creationist will meet with special difficulties; for many of the + mimicking forms of Leptalis can be shown by a graduated series to be + merely varieties of one species; other mimickers are undoubtedly distinct + species, or even distinct genera. So again, some of the mimicked forms can + be shown to be merely varieties; but the greater number must be ranked as + distinct species. Hence the creationist will have to admit that some of + these forms have become imitators, by means of the laws of variation, + whilst others he must look at as separately created under their present + guise; he will further have to admit that some have been created in + imitation of forms not themselves created as we now see them, but due to + the laws of variation? Prof. Agassiz, indeed, would think nothing of this + difficulty; for he believes that not only each species and each variety, + but that groups of individuals, though identically the same, when + inhabiting distinct countries, have been all separately created in due + proportional numbers to the wants of each land. Not many naturalists will + be content thus to believe that varieties and individuals have been turned + out all ready made, almost as a manufacturer turns out toys according to + the temporary demand of the market.") In my opinion it is one of the most + remarkable and admirable papers I ever read in my life. The mimetic cases + are truly marvellous, and you connect excellently a host of analogous + facts. The illustrations are beautiful, and seem very well chosen; but it + would have saved the reader not a little trouble, if the name of each had + been engraved below each separate figure. No doubt this would have put the + engraver into fits, as it would have destroyed the beauty of the plate. I + am not at all surprised at such a paper having consumed much time. I am + rejoiced that I passed over the whole subject in the 'Origin,' for I + should have made a precious mess of it. You have most clearly stated and + solved a wonderful problem. No doubt with most people this will be the + cream of the paper; but I am not sure that all your facts and reasonings + on variation, and on the segregation of complete and semi-complete + species, is not really more, or at least as valuable, a part. I never + conceived the process nearly so clearly before; one feels present at the + creation of new forms. I wish, however, you had enlarged a little more on + the pairing of similar varieties; a rather more numerous body of facts + seems here wanted. Then, again, what a host of curious miscellaneous + observations there are—as on related sexual and individual + variability: these will some day, if I live, be a treasure to me. + </p> + <p> + With respect to mimetic resemblance being so common with insects, do you + not think it may be connected with their small size; they cannot defend + themselves; they cannot escape by flight, at least, from birds, therefore + they escape by trickery and deception? + </p> + <p> + I have one serious criticism to make, and that is about the title of the + paper; I cannot but think that you ought to have called prominent + attention in it to the mimetic resemblances. Your paper is too good to be + largely appreciated by the mob of naturalists without souls; but, rely on + it, that it will have LASTING value, and I cordially congratulate you on + your first great work. You will find, I should think, that Wallace will + fully appreciate it. How gets on your book? Keep your spirits up. A book + is no light labour. I have been better lately, and working hard, but my + health is very indifferent. How is your health? Believe me, dear Bates, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.IV. — THE SPREAD OF EVOLUTION. + </h2> + <h3> + 'VARIATION OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS' + </h3> + <p> + 1863-1866. + </p> + <p> + [His book on animals and plants under domestication was my father's chief + employment in the year 1863. His diary records the length of time spent + over the composition of its chapters, and shows the rate at which he + arranged and wrote out for printing the observations and deductions of + several years. + </p> + <p> + The three chapters in volume ii. on inheritance, which occupy 84 pages of + print, were begun in January and finished on April 1st; the five on + crossing, making 106 pages, were written in eight weeks, while the two + chapters on selection, covering 57 pages, were begun on June 16th and + finished on July 20th. + </p> + <p> + The work was more than once interrupted by ill health, and in September, + what proved to be the beginning of a six month's illness, forced him to + leave home for the water-cure at Malvern. He returned in October and + remained ill and depressed, in spite of the hopeful opinion of one of the + most cheery and skilful physicians of the day. Thus he wrote to Sir J.D. + Hooker in November:— + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Brinton has been here (recommended by Busk); he does not believe my + brain or heart are primarily affected, but I have been so steadily going + down hill, I cannot help doubting whether I can ever crawl a little uphill + again. Unless I can, enough to work a little, I hope my life may be very + short, for to lie on a sofa all day and do nothing but give trouble to the + best and kindest of wives and good dear children is dreadful." + </p> + <p> + The minor works in this year were a short paper in the 'Natural History + Review' (N.S. vol. iii. page 115), entitled "On the so-called + 'Auditor-Sac' of Cirripedes," and one in the 'Geological Society's + Journal' (vol. xix), on the "Thickness of the Pampaean Formation near + Buenos Ayres." The paper on Cirripedes was called forth by the criticisms + of a German naturalist Krohn (Krohn stated that the structures described + by my father as ovaries were in reality salivary glands, also that the + oviduct runs down to the orifice described in the 'Monograph of the + Cirripedia' as the auditory meatus.), and is of some interest in + illustration of my father's readiness to admit an error. + </p> + <p> + With regard to the spread of a belief in Evolution, it could not yet be + said that the battle was won, but the growth of belief was undoubtedly + rapid. So that, for instance, Charles Kingsley could write to F.D. Maurice + (Kingsley's 'Life,' ii, page 171.): + </p> + <p> + "The state of the scientific mind is most curious; Darwin is conquering + everywhere, and rushing in like a flood, by the mere force of truth and + fact." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Huxley was as usual active in guiding and stimulating the growing + tendency to tolerate or accept the views set forth in the 'Origin of + Species.' He gave a series of lectures to working men at the School of + Mines in November, 1862. These were printed in 1863 from the shorthand + notes of Mr. May, as six little blue books, price 4 pence each, under the + title, 'Our Knowledge of the Causes of Organic Nature.' When published + they were read with interest by my father, who thus refers to them in a + letter to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad you like Huxley's lectures. I have been very much struck + with them, especially with the 'Philosophy of Induction.' I have + quarrelled with him for overdoing sterility and ignoring cases from + Gartner and Kolreuter about sterile varieties. His Geology is obscure; and + I rather doubt about man's mind and language. But it seems to me ADMIRABLY + done, and, as you say, "Oh my," about the praise of the 'Origin.' I can't + help liking it, which makes me rather ashamed of myself." + </p> + <p> + My father admired the clearness of exposition shown in the lectures, and + in the following letter urges their author to make use of his powers for + the advantage of students:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. November 5 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + I want to make a suggestion to you, but which may probably have occurred + to you. — was reading your Lectures and ended by saying, "I wish he + would write a book." I answered, "he has just written a great book on the + skull." "I don't call that a book," she replied, and added, "I want + something that people can read; he does write so well." Now, with your + ease in writing, and with knowledge at your fingers' ends, do you not + think you could write a popular Treatise on Zoology? Of course it would be + some waste of time, but I have been asked more than a dozen times to + recommend something for a beginner and could only think of Carpenter's + Zoology. I am sure that a striking Treatise would do real service to + science by educating naturalists. If you were to keep a portfolio open for + a couple of years, and throw in slips of paper as subjects crossed your + mind, you would soon have a skeleton (and that seems to me the difficulty) + on which to put the flesh and colours in your inimitable manner. I believe + such a book might have a brilliant success, but I did not intend to + scribble so much about it. + </p> + <p> + Give my kindest remembrance to Mrs. Huxley, and tell her I was looking at + 'Enoch Arden,' and as I know how she admires Tennyson, I must call her + attention to two sweetly pretty lines (page 105)... + </p> + <p> + ... and he meant, he said he meant, Perhaps he meant, or partly meant, you + well. + </p> + <p> + Such a gem as this is enough to make me young again, and like poetry with + pristine fervour. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In another letter (January 1865) he returns to the above suggestion, + though he was in general strongly opposed to men of science giving up to + the writing of text-books, or to teaching, the time that might otherwise + have been given to original research. + </p> + <p> + "I knew there was very little chance of your having time to write a + popular Treatise on Zoology, but you are about the one man who could do + it. At the time I felt it would be almost a sin for you to do it, as it + would of course destroy some original work. On the other hand I sometimes + think that general and popular treatises are almost as important for the + progress of science as original work." + </p> + <p> + The series of letters will continue the history of the year 1863.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, January 3 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I am burning with indignation and must exhale... I could not get to sleep + till past 3 last night for indignation (It would serve no useful purpose + if I were to go into the matter which so strongly roused my father's + anger. It was a question of literary dishonesty, in which a friend was the + sufferer, but which in no way affected himself.)... + </p> + <p> + Now for pleasanter subjects; we were all amused at your defence of stamp + collecting and collecting generally... But, by Jove, I can hardly stomach + a grown man collecting stamps. Who would ever have thought of your + collecting Wedgwoodware! but that is wholly different, like engravings or + pictures. We are degenerate descendants of old Josiah W., for we have not + a bit of pretty ware in the house. + </p> + <p> + ... Notwithstanding the very pleasant reason you give for our not enjoying + a holiday, namely, that we have no vices, it is a horrid bore. I have been + trying for health's sake to be idle, with no success. What I shall now + have to do, will be to erect a tablet in Down Church, "Sacred to the + Memory, etc.," and officially die, and then publish books, "by the late + Charles Darwin," for I cannot think what has come over me of late; I + always suffered from the excitement of talking, but now it has become + ludicrous. I talked lately 1 1/2 hours (broken by tea by myself) with my + nephew, and I was [ill] half the night. It is a fearful evil for self and + family. + </p> + <p> + Good-night. Ever yours. C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter to Sir Julius von Haast (Sir Julius von Haast was a + German by birth, but had long been resident in New Zealand. He was, in + 1862, Government Geologist to the Province of Canterbury.), is an example + of the sympathy which he felt with the spread and growth of science in the + colonies. It was a feeling not expressed once only, but was frequently + present in his mind, and often found utterance. When we, at Cambridge, had + the satisfaction of receiving Sir J. von Haast into our body as a Doctor + of Science (July 1886), I had the opportunity of hearing from him of the + vivid pleasure which this, and other letters from my father, gave him. It + was pleasant to see how strong had been the impression made by my father's + warm-hearted sympathy—an impression which seemed, after more than + twenty years, to be as fresh as when it was first received:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JULIUS VON HAAST. Down, January 22 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you most sincerely for sending me your Address and the Geological + Report. (Address to the 'Philosophical Institute of Canterbury (N.Z.).' + The "Report" is given in "The New Zealand Government Gazette, Province of + Canterbury", October 1862.) I have seldom in my life read anything more + spirited and interesting than your address. The progress of your colony + makes one proud, and it is really admirable to see a scientific + institution founded in so young a nation. I thank you for the very + honourable notice of my 'Origin of Species.' You will easily believe how + much I have been interested by your striking facts on the old glacial + period, and I suppose the world might be searched in vain for so grand a + display of terraces. You have, indeed, a noble field for scientific + research and discovery. I have been extremely much interested by what you + say about the tracks of supposed [living] mammalia. Might I ask, if you + succeed in discovering what the creatures are, you would have the great + kindness to inform me? Perhaps they may turn out something like the + Solenhofen bird creature, with its long tail and fingers, with claws to + its wings! I may mention that in South America, in completely uninhabited + regions, I found spring rat-traps, baited with CHEESE, were very + successful in catching the smaller mammals. I would venture to suggest to + you to urge on some of the capable members of your institution to observe + annually the rate and manner of spreading of European weeds and insects, + and especially to observe WHAT NATIVE PLANTS MOST FAIL; this latter point + has never been attended to. Do the introduced hive-bees replace any other + insect? etc. All such points are, in my opinion, great desiderata in + science. What an interesting discovery that of the remains of prehistoric + man! + </p> + <p> + Believe me, dear Sir, With the most cordial respect and thanks, Yours very + faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO CAMILLE DARESTE. (Professor Dareste is a + well-known worker in Animal Teratology. He was in 1863 living at Lille, + but has since then been called to Paris. My father took a special interest + in Dareste's work on the production of monsters, as bearing on the causes + of variation.) Down, February 16 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + Dear and respected Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for your letter and your pamphlet. I had heard (I + think in one of M. Quatrefages' books) of your work, and was most anxious + to read it, but did not know where to find it. You could not have made me + a more valuable present. I have only just returned home, and have not yet + read your work; when I do if I wish to ask any questions I will venture to + trouble you. Your approbation of my book on Species has gratified me + extremely. Several naturalists in England, North America, and Germany, + have declared that their opinions on the subject have in some degree been + modified, but as far as I know, my book has produced no effect whatever in + France, and this makes me the more gratified by your very kind expression + of approbation. Pray believe me, dear Sir, with much respect, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully and obliged, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 24 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I am astonished at your note, I have not seen the "Athenaeum" (In the + 'Antiquity of Man,' first edition, page 480, Lyell criticised somewhat + severely Owen's account of the difference between the Human and Simian + brains. The number of the "Athenaeum" here referred to (1863, page 262) + contains a reply by Professor Owen to Lyell's strictures. The surprise + expressed by my father was at the revival of a controversy which every one + believed to be closed. Prof. Huxley ("Medical Times", October 25, 1862, + quoted in 'Man's Place in Nature,' page 117) spoke of the "two years + during which this preposterous controversy has dragged its weary length." + And this no doubt expressed a very general feeling.) but I have sent for + it, and may get it to-morrow; and will then say what I think. + </p> + <p> + I have read Lyell's book. ['The Antiquity of Man.'] the whole certainty + struck me as a compilation, but of the highest class, for when possible + the facts have been verified on the spot, making it almost an original + work. The Glacial chapters seem to me best, and in parts magnificent. I + could hardly judge about Man, as all the gloss of novelty was completely + worn off. But certainly the aggregation of the evidence produced a very + striking effect on my mind. The chapter comparing language and changes of + species, seems most ingenious and interesting. He has shown great skill in + picking out salient points in the argument for change of species; but I am + deeply disappointed (I do not mean personally) to find that his timidity + prevents him giving any judgment... From all my communications with him I + must ever think that he has really entirely lost faith in the immutability + of species; and yet one of his strongest sentences is nearly as follows: + "If it should EVER (The italics are not Lyell's.) be rendered highly + probable that species change by variation and natural selection," etc., + etc. I had hoped he would have guided the public as far as his own belief + went... One thing does please me on this subject, that he seems to + appreciate your work. No doubt the public or a part may be induced to + think that as he gives to us a larger space than to Lamarck, he must think + there is something in our views. When reading the brain chapter, it struck + me forcibly that if he had said openly that he believed in change of + species, and as a consequence that man was derived from some Quadrumanous + animal, it would have been very proper to have discussed by compilation + the differences in the most important organ, viz. the brain. As it is, the + chapter seems to me to come in rather by the head and shoulders. I do not + think (but then I am as prejudiced as Falconer and Huxley, or more so) + that it is too severe; it struck me as given with judicial force. It might + perhaps be said with truth that he had no business to judge on a subject + on which he knows nothing; but compilers must do this to a certain extent. + (You know I value and rank high compilers, being one myself!) I have taken + you at your word, and scribbled at great length. If I get the "Athenaeum" + to-morrow, I will add my impression of Owen's letter. + </p> + <p> + ... The Lyells are coming here on Sunday evening to stay till Wednesday. I + dread it, but I must say how much disappointed I am that he has not spoken + out on species, still less on man. And the best of the joke is that he + thinks he has acted with the courage of a martyr of old. I hope I may have + taken an exaggerated view of his timidity, and shall PARTICULARLY be glad + of your opinion on this head. (On this subject my father wrote to Sir + Joseph Hooker: "Cordial thanks for your deeply interesting letters about + Lyell, Owen, and Co. I cannot say how glad I am to hear that I have not + been unjust about the species-question towards Lyell. I feared I had been + unreasonable.") When I got his book I turned over the pages, and saw he + had discussed the subject of species, and said that I thought he would do + more to convert the public than all of us, and now (which makes the case + worse for me) I must, in common honesty, retract. I wish to Heaven he had + said not a word on the subject. + </p> + <p> + WEDNESDAY MORNING: + </p> + <p> + I have read the "Athenaeum". I do not think Lyell will be nearly so much + annoyed as you expect. The concluding sentence is no doubt very stinging. + No one but a good anatomist could unravel Owen's letter; at least it is + quite beyond me. + </p> + <p> + ... Lyell's memory plays him false when he says all anatomists were + astonished at Owen's paper ("On the Characters, etc., of the Class + Mammalia." 'Linn. Soc. Journal,' ii, 1858.); it was often quoted with + approbation. I WELL remember Lyell's admiration at this new + classification! (Do not repeat this.) I remember it, because, though I + knew nothing whatever about the brain, I felt a conviction that a + classification thus founded on a single character would break down, and it + seemed to me a great error not to separate more completely the + Marsupialia... + </p> + <p> + What an accursed evil it is that there should be all this quarrelling + within, what ought to be, the peaceful realms of science. I will go to my + own present subject of inheritance and forget it all for a time. Farewell, + my dear old friend, + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, February 23 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + ... If you have time to read you will be interested by parts of Lyell's + book on man; but I fear that the best part, about the Glacial period, may + be too geological for any one except a regular geologist. He quotes you at + the end with gusto. By the way, he told me the other day how pleased some + had been by hearing that they could purchase your pamphlet. The + "Parthenon" also speaks of it as the ablest contribution to the literature + of the subject. It delights me when I see your work appreciated. + </p> + <p> + The Lyells come here this day week, and I shall grumble at his excessive + caution... The public may well say, if such a man dare not or will not + speak out his mind, how can we who are ignorant form even a guess on the + subject? Lyell was pleased when I told him lately that you thought that + language might be used as an excellent illustration of derivation of + species; you will see that he has an ADMIRABLE chapter on this... + </p> + <p> + I read Cairns's excellent Lecture (Prof. J.E. Cairns, 'The Slave Power, + etc.: an attempt to explain the real issues involved in the American + contest.' 1862.), which shows so well how your quarrel arose from Slavery. + It made me for a time wish honestly for the North; but I could never help, + though I tried, all the time thinking how we should be bullied and forced + into a war by you, when you were triumphant. But I do most truly think it + dreadful that the South, with its accursed slavery, should triumph, and + spread the evil. I think if I had power, which thank God, I have not, I + would let you conquer the border States, and all west of the Mississippi, + and then force you to acknowledge the cotton States. For do you not now + begin to doubt whether you can conquer and hold them? I have inflicted a + long tirade on you. + </p> + <p> + "The Times" is getting more detestable (but that is too weak a word) than + ever. My good wife wishes to give it up, but I tell her that is a pitch of + heroism to which only a woman is equal. To give up the "Bloody Old + 'Times'," as Cobbett used to call it, would be to give up meat, drink and + air. Farewell, my dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Yours most truly, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, March 6, [1863]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have been of course deeply interested by your book. ('Antiquity of + Man.') I have hardly any remarks worth sending, but will scribble a little + on what most interested me. But I will first get out what I hate saying, + viz., that I have been greatly disappointed that you have not given + judgment and spoken fairly out what you think about the derivation of + species. I should have been contented if you had boldly said that species + have not been separately created, and had thrown as much doubt as you like + on how far variation and natural selection suffices. I hope to Heaven I am + wrong (and from what you say about Whewell it seems so), but I cannot see + how your chapters can do more good than an extraordinary able review. I + think the "Parthenon" is right, that you will leave the public in a fog. + No doubt they may infer that as you give more space to myself, Wallace, + and Hooker, than to Lamarck, you think more of us. But I had always + thought that your judgment would have been an epoch in the subject. All + that is over with me, and I will only think on the admirable skill with + which you have selected the striking points, and explained them. No praise + can be too strong, in my opinion, for the inimitable chapter on language + in comparison with species. + </p> + <p> + (After speculating on the sudden appearance of individuals far above the + average of the human race, Lyell asks if such leaps upwards in the scale + of intellect may not "have cleared at one bound the space which separated + the higher stage of the unprogressive intelligence of the inferior animals + from the first and lowest form of improvable reason manifested by man.") + page 505—A sentence at the top of the page makes me groan... + </p> + <p> + I know you will forgive me for writing with perfect freedom, for you must + know how deeply I respect you as my old honoured guide and master. I + heartily hope and expect that your book will have gigantic circulation and + may do in many ways as much good as it ought to do. I am tired, so no + more. I have written so briefly that you will have to guess my meaning. I + fear my remarks are hardly worth sending. Farewell, with kindest + remembrance to Lady Lyell. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Mr. Huxley has quoted (vol. i. page 546) some passages from Lyell's + letters which show his state of mind at this time. The following passage, + from a letter of March 11th to my father, is also of much interest:— + </p> + <p> + "My feelings, however, more than any thought about policy or expediency, + prevent me from dogmatising as to the descent of man from the brutes, + which, though I am prepared to accept it, takes away much of the charm + from my speculations on the past relating to such matters... But you ought + to be satisfied, as I shall bring hundreds towards you who, if I treated + the matter more dogmatically, would have rebelled."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, 12 [March, 1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your very interesting and kind, I may say, charming + letter. I feared you might be huffed for a little time with me. I know + some men would have been so. I have hardly any more criticisms, anyhow, + worth writing. But I may mention that I felt a little surprise that old B. + de Perthes (1788-1868. See footnote below.) was not rather more honourably + mentioned. I would suggest whether you could not leave out some references + to the 'Principles;' one for the real student is as good as a hundred, and + it is rather irritating, and gives a feeling of incompleteness to the + general reader to be often referred to other books. As you say that you + have gone as far as you believe on the species question, I have not a word + to say; but I must feel convinced that at times, judging from + conversation, expressions, letters, etc., you have as completely given up + belief in immutability of specific forms as I have done. I must still + think a clear expression from you, IF YOU COULD HAVE GIVEN IT, would have + been potent with the public, and all the more so, as you formerly held + opposite opinions. The more I work the more satisfied I become with + variation and natural selection, but that part of the case I look at as + less important, though more interesting to me personally. As you ask for + criticisms on this head (and believe me that I should not have made them + unasked), I may specify (pages 412, 413) that such words as "Mr. D. + labours to show," "is believed by the author to throw light," would lead a + common reader to think that you yourself do NOT at all agree, but merely + think it fair to give my opinion. Lastly, you refer repeatedly to my view + as a modification of Lamarck's doctrine of development and progression. If + this is your deliberate opinion there is nothing to be said, but it does + not seem so to me. Plato, Buffon, my grandfather before Lamarck, and + others, propounded the OBVIOUS views that if species were not created + separately they must have descended from other species, and I can see + nothing else in common between the 'Origin' and Lamarck. I believe this + way of putting the case is very injurious to its acceptance, as it implies + necessary progression, and closely connects Wallace's and my views with + what I consider, after two deliberate readings, as a wretched book, and + one from which (I well remember my surprise) I gained nothing. But I know + you rank it higher, which is curious, as it did not in the least shake + your belief. But enough, and more than enough. Please remember you have + brought it all down on yourself!!! + </p> + <p> + I am very sorry to hear about Falconer's "reclamation." ("Falconer, whom I + referred to oftener than to any other author, says I have not done justice + to the part he took in resuscitating the cave question, and says he shall + come out with a separate paper to prove it. I offered to alter anything in + the new edition, but this he declined.—C. Lyell to C. Darwin, March + 11, 1863; Lyell's 'Life,' vol. ii. page 364.) I hate the very word, and + have a sincere affection for him. + </p> + <p> + Did you ever read anything so wretched as the "Athenaeum" reviews of you, + and of Huxley ('Man's Place in Nature,' 1863.) especially. Your OBJECT to + make man old, and Huxley's OBJECT to degrade him. The wretched writer has + not a glimpse what the discovery of scientific truth means. How splendid + some pages are in Huxley, but I fear the book will not be popular... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down [March 13, 1863]. + </p> + <p> + I should have thanked you sooner for the "Athenaeum" and very pleasant + previous note, but I have been busy, and not a little uncomfortable from + frequent uneasy feeling of fullness, slight pain and tickling about the + heart. But as I have no other symptoms of heart complaint I do not suppose + it is affected... I have had a most kind and delightfully candid letter + from Lyell, who says he spoke out as far as he believes. I have no doubt + his belief failed him as he wrote, for I feel sure that at times he no + more believed in Creation than you or I. I have grumbled a bit in my + answer to him at his ALWAYS classing my work as a modification of + Lamarck's, which it is no more than any author who did not believe in + immutability of species, and did believe in descent. I am very sorry to + hear from Lyell that Falconer is going to publish a formal reclamation of + his own claims... + </p> + <p> + It is cruel to think of it, but we must go to Malvern in the middle of + April; it is ruin to me. (He went to Hartfield in Sussex, on April 27, and + to Malvern in the autumn.)... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, March 17 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have been much interested by your letters and enclosure, and thank you + sincerely for giving me so much time when you must be so busy. What a + curious letter from B. de P. [Boucher de Perthes]. He seems perfectly + satisfied, and must be a very amiable man. I know something about his + errors, and looked at his book many years ago, and am ashamed to think + that I concluded the whole was rubbish! Yet he has done for man something + like what Agassiz did for glaciers. (In his 'Antiquites Celtiques' (1847), + Boucher de Perthes described the flint tools found at Abbeville with bones + of rhinoceros, hyaena, etc. "But the scientific world had no faith in the + statement that works of art, however rude, had been met with in + undisturbed beds of such antiquity." ('Antiquity of Man,' first edition, + page 95).) + </p> + <p> + I cannot say that I agree with Hooker about the public not liking to be + told what to conclude, IF COMING FROM ONE IN YOUR POSITION. But I am + heartily sorry that I was led to make complaints, or something very like + complaints, on the manner in which you have treated the subject, and still + more so anything about myself. I steadily ENDEAVOUR never to forget my + firm belief that no one can at all judge about his own work. As for + Lamarck, as you have such a man as Grove with you, you are triumphant; not + that I can alter my opinion that to me it was an absolutely useless book. + Perhaps this was owing to my always searching books for facts, perhaps + from knowing my grandfather's earlier and identically the same + speculation. I will only further say that if I can analyse my own feelings + (a very doubtful process), it is nearly as much for your sake as for my + own, that I so much wish that your state of belief could have permitted + you to say boldly and distinctly out that species were not separately + created. I have generally told you the progress of opinion, as I have + heard it, on the species question. A first-rate German naturalist (No + doubt Haeckel, whose monograph on the Radiolaria was published in 1862. In + the same year Professor W. Preyer of Jena published a dissertation on Alca + impennis, which was one of the earliest pieces of special work on the + basis of the 'Origin of Species.') (I now forget the name!), who has + lately published a grand folio, has spoken out to the utmost extent on the + 'Origin.' De Candolle, in a very good paper on "Oaks," goes, in Asa Gray's + opinion, as far as he himself does; but De Candolle, in writing to me, + says WE, "we think this and that;" so that I infer he really goes to the + full extent with me, and tells me of a French good botanical + palaeontologist (name forgotten) (The Marquis de Saporta.), who writes to + De Candolle that he is sure that my views will ultimately prevail. But I + did not intend to have written all this. It satisfies me with the final + results, but this result, I begin to see, will take two or three + lifetimes. The entomologists are enough to keep the subject back for half + a century. I really pity your having to balance the claims of so many + eager aspirants for notice; it is clearly impossible to satisfy all... + Certainly I was struck with the full and due honour you conferred on + Falconer. I have just had a note from Hooker... I am heartily glad that + you have made him so conspicuous; he is so honest, so candid, and so + modest... + </p> + <p> + I have read —. I could find nothing to lay hold of, which in one + sense I am very glad of, as I should hate a controversy; but in another + sense I am very sorry for, as I long to be in the same boat with all my + friends... I am heartily glad the book is going off so well. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down [March 29, 1863]. + </p> + <p> + ... Many thanks for "Athenaeum", received this morning, and to be returned + to-morrow morning. Who would have ever thought of the old stupid + "Athenaeum" taking to Oken-like transcendental philosophy written in + Owenian style! (This refers to a review of Dr. Carpenter's 'Introduction + to the study of Foraminifera,' that appeared in the "Athenaeum" of March + 28, 1863 (page 417). The reviewer attacks Dr. Carpenter's views in as much + as they support the doctrine of Descent; and he upholds spontaneous + generation (Heterogeny) in place of what Dr. Carpenter, naturally enough, + believed in, viz. the genetic connection of living and extinct + Foraminifera. In the next number is a letter by Dr. Carpenter, which + chiefly consists of a protest against the reviewer's somewhat contemptuous + classification of Dr. Carpenter and my father as disciple and master. In + the course of the letter Dr. Carpenter says—page 461:— + </p> + <p> + "Under the influence of his foregone conclusion that I have accepted Mr. + Darwin as my master, and his hypothesis as my guide, your reviewer + represents me as blind to the significance of the general fact stated by + me, that 'there has been no advance in the foraminiferous type from the + palaeozoic period to the present time.' But for such a foregone conclusion + he would have recognised in this statement the expression of my conviction + that the present state of scientific evidence, instead of sanctioning the + idea that the descendants of the primitive type or types of Foraminifera + can ever rise to any higher grade, justifies the ANTI-DARWINIAN influence, + that however widely they diverge from each other and from their originals, + THEY STILL REMAIN FORAMINIFERA.")... It will be some time before we see + "slime, protoplasm, etc.," generating a new animal. (On the same subject + my father wrote in 1871: "It is often said that all the conditions for the + first production of a living organism are now present, which could ever + have been present. But if (and oh! what a big if!) we could conceive in + some warm little pond, with all sorts of ammonia and phosphoric salts, + light, heat, electricity, etc., present, that a proteine compound was + chemically formed ready to undergo still more complex changes, at the + present day such matter would be instantly devoured or absorbed, which + would not have been the case before living creatures were formed.") But I + have long regretted that I truckled to public opinion, and used the + Pentateuchal term of creation (This refers to a passage in which the + reviewer of Dr. Carpenter's books speaks of "an operation of force," or "a + concurrence of forces which have now no place in nature," as being, "a + creative force, in fact, which Darwin could only express in Pentateuchal + terms as the primordial form 'into which life was first breathed.'" The + conception of expressing a creative force as a primordial form is the + Reviewer's.), by which I really meant "appeared" by some wholly unknown + process. It is mere rubbish, thinking at present of the origin of life; + one might as well think of the origin of matter. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, Friday night [April 17, + 1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have heard from Oliver that you will be now at Kew, and so I am going to + amuse myself by scribbling a bit. I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your + tour. I never in my life saw anything like the spring flowers this year. + What a lot of interesting things have been lately published. I liked + extremely your review of De Candolle. What an awfully severe article that + by Falconer on Lyell ("Athenaeum", April 4, 1863, page 459. The writer + asserts that justice has not been done either to himself or Mr. Prestwich—that + Lyell has not made it clear that it was their original work which supplied + certain material for the 'Antiquity of Man.' Falconer attempts to draw an + unjust distinction between a "philosopher" (here used as a polite word for + compiler) like Sir Charles Lyell, and original observers, presumably such + as himself, and Mr. Prestwich. Lyell's reply was published in the + "Athenaeum", April 18, 1863. It ought to be mentioned that a letter from + Mr. Prestwich ("Athenaeum", page 555), which formed part of the + controversy, though of the nature of a reclamation, was written in a very + different spirit and tone from Dr. Falconer's.); I am very sorry for it; I + think Falconer on his side does not do justice to old Perthes and + Schmerling... I shall be very curious to see how he [Lyell] answers it + t-morrow. (I have been compelled to take in the "Athenaeum" for a while.) + I am very sorry that Falconer should have written so spitefully, even if + there is some truth in his accusations; I was rather disappointed in + Carpenter's letter, no one could have given a better answer, but the chief + object of his letter seems to me to be to show that though he has touched + pitch he is not defiled. No one would suppose he went so far as to believe + all birds came from one progenitor. I have written a letter to the + "Athenaeum" ("Athenaeum", 1863, page 554: "The view given by me on the + origin or derivation of species, whatever its weaknesses may be, connects + (as has been candidly admitted by some of its opponents, such as Pictet, + Bronn, etc.), by an intelligible thread of reasoning, a multitude of + facts: such as the formation of domestic races by man's selection,—the + classification and affinities of all organic beings,—the innumerable + gradations in structure and instincts,—the similarity of pattern in + the hand, wing, or paddle of animals of the same great class,—the + existence of organs become rudimentary by disuse,—the similarity of + an embryonic reptile, bird, and mammal, with the retention of traces of an + apparatus fitted for aquatic respiration; the retention in the young calf + of incisor teeth in the upper jaw, etc.—the distribution of animals + and plants, and their mutual affinities within the same region,—their + general geological succession, and the close relationship of the fossils + in closely consecutive formations and within the same country; extinct + marsupials having preceded living marsupials in Australia, and + armadillo-like animals having preceded and generated armadilloes in South + America,—and many other phenomena, such as the gradual extinction of + old forms and their gradual replacement by new forms better fitted for + their new conditions in the struggle for life. When the advocate of + Heterogeny can thus connect large classes of facts, and not until then, he + will have respectful and patient listeners.") (the first and last time I + shall take such a step) to say, under the cloak of attacking Heterogeny, a + word in my own defence. My letter is to appear next week, so the Editor + says; and I mean to quote Lyell's sentence (See the next letter.) in his + second edition, on the principle if one puffs oneself, one had better puff + handsomely... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, April 18 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I was really quite sorry that you had sent me a second copy (The second + edition of the 'Antiquity of Man' was published a few months after the + first had appeared.) of your valuable book. But after a few hours my + sorrow vanished for this reason: I have written a letter to the + "Athenaeum", in order, under the cloak of attacking the monstrous article + on Heterogeny, to say a word for myself in answer to Carpenter, and now I + have inserted a few sentences in allusion to your analogous objection + (Lyell objected that the mammalia (e.g. bats and seals) which alone have + been able to reach oceanic islands ought to have become modified into + various terrestrial forms fitted to fill various places in their new home. + My father pointed out in the "Athenaeum" that Sir Charles has in some + measure answered his own objection, and went on to quote the "amended + sentence" ('Antiquity of Man,' 2nd Edition page 469) as showing how far + Lyell agreed with the general doctrines of the "Origin of Species': "Yet + we ought by no means to undervalue the importance of the step which will + have been made, should it hereafter become the generally received opinion + of men of science (as I fully expect it will) that the past changes of the + organic world have been brought about by the subordinate agency of such + causes as Variation and Natural Selection." In the first edition the words + (as I fully expect it will," do not occur.) about bats on islands, and + then with infinite slyness have quoted your amended sentence, with your + parenthesis ("as I fully believe") (My father here quotes Lyell + incorrectly; see the previous foot-note.); I do not think you can be + annoyed at my doing this, and you see, that I am determined as far as I + can, that the public shall see how far you go. This is the first time I + have ever said a word for myself in any journal, and it shall, I think, be + the last. My letter is short, and no great things. I was extremely + concerned to see Falconer's disrespectful and virulent letter. I like + extremely your answer just read; you take a lofty and dignified position, + to which you are so well entitled. (In a letter to Sir J.D. Hooker he + wrote: "I much like Lyell's letter. But all this squabbling will greatly + sink scientific men. I have seen sneers already in the 'Times'.") + </p> + <p> + I suspect that if you had inserted a few more superlatives in speaking of + the several authors there would have been none of this horrid noise. No + one, I am sure, who knows you could doubt about your hearty sympathy with + every one who makes any little advance in science. I still well remember + my surprise at the manner in which you listened to me in Hart Street on my + return from the "Beagle's" voyage. You did me a world of good. It is + horridly vexatious that so frank and apparently amiable a man as Falconer + should have behaved so. (It is to this affair that the extract from a + letter to Falconer, given in volume i., refers.) Well it will all soon be + forgotten... + </p> + <p> + [In reply to the above-mentioned letter of my father's to the "Athenaeum", + an article appeared in that Journal (May 2nd, 1863, page 586), accusing my + father of claiming for his views the exclusive merit of "connecting by an + intelligible thread of reasoning" a number of facts in morphology, etc. + The writer remarks that, "The different generalizations cited by Mr. + Darwin as being connected by an intelligible thread of reasoning + exclusively through his attempt to explain specific transmutation are in + fact related to it in this wise, that they have prepared the minds of + naturalists for a better reception of such attempts to explain the way of + the origin of species from species." + </p> + <p> + To this my father replied in the "Athenaeum" of May 9th, 1863:] + </p> + <p> + Down, May 5 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will grant me space to own that your reviewer is quite + correct when he states that any theory of descent will connect, "by an + intelligible thread of reasoning," the several generalizations before + specified. I ought to have made this admission expressly; with the + reservation, however, that, as far as I can judge, no theory so well + explains or connects these several generalizations (more especially the + formation of domestic races in comparison with natural species, the + principles of classification, embryonic resemblance, etc.) as the theory, + or hypothesis, or guess, if the reviewer so likes to call it, of Natural + Selection. Nor has any other satisfactory explanation been ever offered of + the almost perfect adaptation of all organic beings to each other, and to + their physical conditions of life. Whether the naturalist believes in the + views given by Lamarck, by Geoffrey St. Hilaire, by the author of the + 'Vestiges,' by Mr. Wallace and myself, or in any other such view, + signifies extremely little in comparison with the admission that species + have descended from other species, and have not been created immutable; + for he who admits this as a great truth has a wide field opened to him for + further inquiry. I believe, however, from what I see of the progress of + opinion on the Continent, and in this country, that the theory of Natural + Selection will ultimately be adopted, with, no doubt, many subordinate + modifications and improvements. + </p> + <p> + CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the following, he refers to the above letter to the "Athenaeum:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Leith Hill Place, Saturday [May + 11, 1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + You give good advice about not writing in newspapers; I have been gnashing + my teeth at my own folly; and this not caused by —'s sneers, which + were so good that I almost enjoyed them. I have written once again to own + to a certain extent of truth in what he says, and then if I am ever such a + fool again, have no mercy on me. I have read the squib in "Public Opinion" + ("Public Opinion", April 23, 1863. A lively account of a police case, in + which the quarrels of scientific men are satirised. Mr. John Bull gives + evidence that— + </p> + <p> + "The whole neighbourhood was unsettled by their disputes; Huxley + quarrelled with Owen, Owen with Darwin, Lyell with Owen, Falconer and + Prestwich with Lyell, and Gray the menagerie man with everybody. He had + pleasure, however, in stating that Darwin was the quietest of the set. + They were always picking bones with each other and fighting over their + gains. If either of the gravel sifters or stone breakers found anything, + he was obliged to conceal it immediately, or one of the old bone + collectors would be sure to appropriate it first and deny the theft + afterwards, and the consequent wrangling and disputes were as endless as + they were wearisome. + </p> + <p> + "Lord Mayor.—Probably the clergyman of the parish might exert some + influence over them? + </p> + <p> + "The gentleman smiled, shook his head, and stated that he regretted to say + that no class of men paid so little attention to the opinions of the + clergy as that to which these unhappy men belonged."); it is capital; if + there is more, and you have a copy, do lend it. It shows well that a + scientific man had better be trampled in dirt than squabble. I have been + drawing diagrams, dissecting shoots, and muddling my brains to a hopeless + degree about the divergence of leaves, and have of course utterly failed. + But I can see that the subject is most curious, and indeed astonishing... + </p> + <p> + [The next letter refers to Mr. Bentham's presidential address to the + Linnean Society (May 25, 1863). Mr. Bentham does not yield to the new + theory of Evolution, "cannot surrender at discretion as long as many + important outworks remain contestable." But he shows that the great body + of scientific opinion is flowing in the direction of belief. + </p> + <p> + The mention of Pasteur by Mr. Bentham is in reference to the promulgation + "as it were ex cathedra," of a theory of spontaneous generation by the + reviewer of Dr. Carpenter in the "Athenaeum" (March 28, 1863). Mr. Bentham + points out that in ignoring Pasteur's refutation of the supposed facts of + spontaneous generation, the writer fails to act with "that impartiality + which every reviewer is supposed to possess."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G. BENTHAM. Down, May 22 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Bentham, + </p> + <p> + I am much obliged for your kind and interesting letter. I have no fear of + anything that a man like you will say annoying me in the very least + degree. On the other hand, any approval from one whose judgment and + knowledge I have for many years so sincerely respected, will gratify me + much. The objection which you well put, of certain forms remaining + unaltered through long time and space, is no doubt formidable in + appearance, and to a certain extent in reality according to my judgment. + But does not the difficulty rest much on our silently assuming that we + know more than we do? I have literally found nothing so difficult as to + try and always remember our ignorance. I am never weary, when walking in + any new adjoining district or country, of reflecting how absolutely + ignorant we are why certain old plants are not there present, and other + new ones are, and others in different proportions. If we once fully feel + this, then in judging the theory of Natural Selection, which implies that + a form will remain unaltered unless some alteration be to its benefit, is + it so very wonderful that some forms should change much slower and much + less, and some few should have changed not at all under conditions which + to us (who really know nothing what are the important conditions) seem + very different. Certainly a priori we might have anticipated that all the + plants anciently introduced into Australia would have undergone some + modification; but the fact that they have not been modified does not seem + to me a difficulty of weight enough to shake a belief grounded on other + arguments. I have expressed myself miserably, but I am far from well + to-day. + </p> + <p> + I am very glad that you are going to allude to Pasteur; I was struck with + infinite admiration at his work. With cordial thanks, believe me, dear + Bentham, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—In fact, the belief in Natural Selection must at present be + grounded entirely on general considerations. (1) On its being a vera + causa, from the struggle for existence; and the certain geological fact + that species do somehow change. (2) From the analogy of change under + domestication by man's selection. (3) And chiefly from this view + connecting under an intelligible point of view a host of facts. When we + descend to details, we can prove that no one species has changed [i.e. we + cannot prove that a single species has changed]; nor can we prove that the + supposed changes are beneficial, which is the groundwork of the theory. + Nor can we explain why some species have changed and others have not. The + latter case seems to me hardly more difficult to understand precisely and + in detail than the former case of supposed change. Bronn may ask in vain, + the old creationist school and the new school, why one mouse has longer + ears than another mouse, and one plant more pointed leaves than another + plant. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G. BENTHAM. Down, June 19 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Bentham, + </p> + <p> + I have been extremely much pleased and interested by your address, which + you kindly sent me. It seems to be excellently done, with as much judicial + calmness and impartiality as the Lord Chancellor could have shown. But + whether the "immutable" gentlemen would agree with the impartiality may be + doubted, there is too much kindness shown towards me, Hooker, and others, + they might say. Moreover I verily believe that your address, written as it + is, will do more to shake the unshaken and bring on those leaning to our + side, than anything written directly in favour of transmutation. I can + hardly tell why it is, but your address has pleased me as much as Lyell's + book disappointed me, that is, the part on species, though so cleverly + written. I agree with all your remarks on the reviewers. By the way, Lecoq + (Author of 'Geographie Botanique.' 9 vols. 1854-58.) is a believer in the + change of species. I, for one, can conscientiously declare that I never + feel surprised at any one sticking to the belief of immutability; though I + am often not a little surprised at the arguments advanced on this side. I + remember too well my endless oscillations of doubt and difficulty. It is + to me really laughable when I think of the years which elapsed before I + saw what I believe to be the explanation of some parts of the case; I + believe it was fifteen years after I began before I saw the meaning and + cause of the divergence of the descendants of any one pair. You pay me + some most elegant and pleasing compliments. There is much in your address + which has pleased me much, especially your remarks on various naturalists. + I am so glad that you have alluded so honourably to Pasteur. I have just + read over this note; it does not express strongly enough the interest + which I have felt in reading your address. You have done, I believe, a + real good turn to the RIGHT SIDE. Believe me, dear Bentham, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + 1864. + </p> + <p> + [In my father's diary for 1864 is the entry, "Ill all January, February, + March." About the middle of April (seven months after the beginning of the + illness in the previous autumn) his health took a turn for the better. As + soon as he was able to do any work, he began to write his papers on + Lythrum, and on Climbing Plants, so that the work which now concerns us + did not begin until September, when he again set to work on 'Animals and + Plants.' A letter to Sir J.D. Hooker gives some account of the + r-commencement of the work: "I have begun looking over my old MS., and it + is as fresh as if I had never written it; parts are astonishingly dull, + but yet worth printing, I think; and other parts strike me as very good. I + am a complete millionaire in odd and curious little facts, and I have been + really astounded at my own industry whilst reading my chapters on + Inheritance and Selection. God knows when the book will ever be completed, + for I find that I am very weak and on my best days cannot do more than one + or one and a half hours' work. It is a good deal harder than writing about + my dear climbing plants." + </p> + <p> + In this year he received the greatest honour which a scientific man can + receive in this country—the Copley Medal of the Royal Society. It is + presented at the Anniversary Meeting on St. Andrew's Day (November 30), + the medalist being usually present to receive it, but this the state of my + father's health prevented. He wrote to Mr. Fox on this subject:— + </p> + <p> + "I was glad to see your hand-writing. The Copley, being open to all + sciences and all the world, is reckoned a great honour; but excepting from + several kind letters, such things make little difference to me. It shows, + however, that Natural Selection is making some progress in this country, + and that pleases me. The subject, however, is safe in foreign lands." + </p> + <p> + To Sir J.D. Hooker, also, he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "How kind you have been about this medal; indeed, I am blessed with many + good friends, and I have received four or five notes which have warmed my + heart. I often wonder that so old a worn-out dog as I am is not quite + forgotten. Talking of medals, has Falconer had the Royal? he surely ought + to have it, as ought John Lubbock. By the way, the latter tells me that + some old members of the Royal are quite shocked at my having the Copley. + Do you know who?" + </p> + <p> + He wrote to Mr. Huxley:— + </p> + <p> + "I must and will answer you, for it is a real pleasure for me to thank you + cordially for your note. Such notes as this of yours, and a few others, + are the real medal to me, and not the round bit of gold. These have given + me a pleasure which will long endure; so believe in my cordial thanks for + your note." + </p> + <p> + Sir Charles Lyell, writing to my father in November 1864 ('Life,' vol. ii. + page 384), speaks of the supposed malcontents as being afraid to crown + anything so unorthodox as the 'Origin.' But he adds that if such were + their feelings "they had the good sense to draw in their horns." It + appears, however, from the same letter, that the proposal to give the + Copley Medal to my father in the previous year failed owing to a similar + want of courage—to Lyell's great indignation. + </p> + <p> + In the "Reader", December 3, 1864, General Sabine's presidential address + at the Anniversary Meeting is reported at some length. Special weight was + laid on my father's work in Geology, Zoology, and Botany, but the 'Origin + of Species' is praised chiefly as containing "a mass of observations," + etc. It is curious that as in the case of his election to the French + Institution, so in this case, he was honoured not for the great work of + his life, but for his less important work in special lines. The paragraph + in General Sabine's address which refers to the 'Origin of Species,' is as + follows:— + </p> + <p> + "In his most recent work 'On the Origin of Species,' although opinions may + be divided or undecided with respect to its merits in some respects, all + will allow that it contains a mass of observations bearing upon the + habits, structure, affinities, and distribution of animals, perhaps + unrivalled for interest, minuteness, and patience of observation. Some + amongst us may perhaps incline to accept the theory indicated by the title + of this work, while others may perhaps incline to refuse, or at least to + remit it to a future time, when increased knowledge shall afford stronger + grounds for its ultimate acceptance or rejection. Speaking generally and + collectively, we have expressly omitted it from the grounds of our award." + </p> + <p> + I believe I am right in saying that no little dissatisfaction at the + President's manner of allusion to the 'Origin' was felt by some Fellows of + the Society. + </p> + <p> + The presentation of the Copley Medal is of interest in another way, + inasmuch as it led to Sir C. Lyell making, in his after-dinner speech, a + "confession of faith as to the 'Origin.'" He wrote to my father ('Life,' + vol. ii. page 384), "I said I had been forced to give up my old faith + without thoroughly seeing my way to a new one. But I think you would have + been satisfied with the length I went."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, October 3 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + If I do not pour out my admiration of your article ("Criticisms on the + Origin of Species," 'Nat. Hist. Review,' 1864. Republished in 'Lay + Sermons,' 1870, page 328. The work of Professor Kolliker referred to is + 'Ueber die Darwin'sche Schopfungstheorie' (Leipzig, 1864). Toward + Professor Kolliker my father felt not only the respect due to so + distinguished a naturalist (a sentiment well expressed in Professor + Huxley's review), but he had also a personal regard for him, and often + alluded with satisfaction to the visit which Professor Kolliker paid at + Down.) on Kolliker, I shall explode. I never read anything better done. I + had much wished his article answered, and indeed thought of doing so + myself, so that I considered several points. You have hit on all, and on + some in addition, and oh! by Jove, how well you have done it. As I read on + and came to point after point on which I had thought, I could not help + jeering and scoffing at myself, to see how infinitely better you had done + it than I could have done. Well, if any one, who does not understand + Natural Selection, will read this, he will be a blockhead if it is not as + clear as daylight. Old Flourens ('Examen du livre de M. Darwin sur + l'origine des especes.' Par P. Flourens. 8vo. Paris, 1864.) was hardly + worth the powder and shot; but how capitally you bring in about the + Academician, and your metaphor of the sea-sand is INIMITABLE. + </p> + <p> + It is a marvel to me how you can resist becoming a regular reviewer. Well, + I have exploded now, and it has done me a deal of good... + </p> + <p> + [In the same article in the 'Natural History Review,' Mr. Huxley speaks of + the book above alluded to by Flourens, the Secretaire Perpetuel of the + Academie des Sciences, as one of the two "most elaborate criticisms" of + the 'Origin of Species' of the year. He quotes the following passage:— + </p> + <p> + "M. Darwin continue: 'Aucune distinction absolue n'a ete et ne peut etre + entre les especes et les varietes!' Je vous ai deja dit que vous vous + trompiez; une distinction absolue separe les varietes d'avec les especes." + Mr. Huxley remarks on this, "Being devoid of the blessings of an Academy + in England, we are unaccustomed to see our ablest men treated in this way + even by a Perpetual Secretary." After demonstrating M. Flourens' + misapprehension of Natural Selection, Mr. Huxley says, "How one knows it + all by heart, and with what relief one reads at page 65 'Je laisse M. + Darwin.'" + </p> + <p> + On the same subject my father wrote to Mr. Wallace:— + </p> + <p> + "A great gun, Flourens, has written a little dull book against me which + pleases me much, for it is plain that our good work is spreading in + France. He speaks of the "engouement" about this book [the 'Origin'] "so + full of empty and presumptuous thoughts." The passage here alluded to is + as follows:— + </p> + <p> + "Enfin l'ouvrage de M. Darwin a paru. On ne peut qu'etre frappe du talent + de l'auteur. Mais que d'idees obscures, que d'idees fausses! Quel jargon + metaphysique jete mal a propos dans l'histoire naturelle, qui tombe dans + le galimatias des qu'elle sort des idees claires, des idees justes. Quel + langage pretentieux et vide! Quelles personifications pueriles et + surannees! O lucidite! O solidite de l'esprit francais, que devene-vous?"] + </p> + <p> + 1865. + </p> + <p> + [This was again a time of much ill-health, but towards the close of the + year he began to recover under the care of the late Dr. Bence-Jones, who + dieted him severely, and as he expressed it, "half-starved him to death." + He was able to work at 'Animals and Plants' until nearly the end of April, + and from that time until December he did practically no work, with the + exception of looking over the 'Origin of Species' for a second French + edition. He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:—"I am, as it were, reading the + 'Origin' for the first time, for I am correcting for a second French + edition: and upon my life, my dear fellow, it is a very good book, but oh! + my gracious, it is tough reading, and I wish it were done." (Towards the + end of the year my father received the news of a new convert to his views, + in the person of the distinguished American naturalist Lesquereux. He + wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker: "I have had an enormous letter from Leo + Lesquereux (after doubts, I did not think it worth sending you) on Coal + Flora. He wrote some excellent articles in 'Silliman' against 'Origin' + views; but he says now, after repeated reading of the book, he is a + convert!") + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to the Duke of Argyll's address to the Royal + Society of Edinburgh, December 5th, 1864, in which he criticises the + 'Origin of Species.' My father seems to have read the Duke's address as + reported in the "Scotsman" of December 6th, 1865. In a letter to my father + (January 16, 1865, 'Life,' vol. ii. page 385), Lyell wrote, "The address + is a great step towards your views—far greater, I believe, than it + seems when read merely with reference to criticisms and objections."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, January 22, [1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your very interesting letter. I have the true English + instinctive reverence for rank, and therefore liked to hear about the + Princess Royal. ("I had... an animated conversation on Darwinism with the + Princess Royal, who is a worthy daughter of her father, in the reading of + good books, and thinking of what she reads. She was very much au fait at + the 'Origin,' and Huxley's book, the 'Antiquity,' etc."—(Lyell's + 'Life,' vol. ii. page 385.) You ask what I think of the Duke's address, + and I shall be glad to tell you. It seems to me EXTREMELY clever, like + everything I have read of his; but I am not shaken—perhaps you will + say that neither gods nor men could shake me. I demur to the Duke + reiterating his objection that the brilliant plumage of the male + humming-bird could not have been acquired through selection, at the same + time entirely ignoring my discussion (page 93, 3rd edition) on beautiful + plumage being acquired through SEXUAL selection. The duke may think this + insufficient, but that is another question. All analogy makes me quite + disagree with the Duke that the difference in the beak, wing and tail, are + not of importance to the several species. In the only two species which I + have watched, the difference in flight and in the use of the tail was + conspicuously great. + </p> + <p> + The Duke, who knows my Orchid book so well, might have learnt a lesson of + caution from it, with respect to his doctrine of differences for mere + variety or beauty. It may be confidently said that no tribe of plants + presents such grotesque and beautiful differences, which no one until + lately, conjectured were of any use; but now in almost every case I have + been able to show their important service. It should be remembered that + with humming birds or orchids, a modification in one part will cause + correlated changes in other parts. I agree with what you say about beauty. + I formerly thought a good deal on the subject, and was led quite to + repudiate the doctrine of beauty being created for beauty's sake. I demur + also to the Duke's expression of "new births." That may be a very good + theory, but it is not mine, unless indeed he calls a bird born with a beak + 1/100th of an inch longer than usual "a new birth;" but this is not the + sense in which the term would usually be understood. The more I work the + more I feel convinced that it is by the accumulation of such extremely + slight variations that new species arise. I do not plead guilty to the + Duke's charge that I forget that natural selection means only the + preservation of variations which independently arise. ("Strictly speaking, + therefore, Mr. Darwin's theory is not a theory on the Origin of Species at + all, but only a theory on the causes which lead to the relative success + and failure of such new forms as may be born into the world."—"Scotsman", + December 6, 1864.) I have expressed this in as strong language as I could + use, but it would have been infinitely tedious had I on every occasion + thus guarded myself. I will cry "peccavi" when I hear of the Duke or you + attacking breeders for saying that man has made his improved shorthorns, + or pouter pigeons, or bantams. And I could quote still stronger + expressions used by agriculturists. Man does make his artificial breeds, + for his selective power is of such importance relatively to that of the + slight spontaneous variations. But no one will attack breeders for using + such expressions, and the rising generation will not blame me. + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for your offer of sending me the 'Elements.' (Sixth edition in + one volume.) I hope to read it all, but unfortunately reading makes my + head whiz more than anything else. I am able most days to work for two or + three hours, and this makes all the difference in my happiness. I have + resolved not to be tempted astray, and to publish nothing till my volume + on Variation is completed. You gave me excellent advice about the + footnotes in my Dog chapter, but their alteration gave me infinite + trouble, and I often wished all the dogs, and I fear sometimes you + yourself, in the nether regions. + </p> + <p> + We (dictator and writer) send our best love to Lady Lyell. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—If ever you should speak with the Duke on the subject, please + say how much interested I was with his address. + </p> + <p> + [In his autobiographical sketch my father has remarked that owing to + certain early memories he felt the honour of being elected to the Royal + and Royal Medical Societies of Edinburgh "more than any similar honour." + The following extract from a letter to Sir Joseph Hooker refers to his + election to the former of these societies. The latter part of the extract + refers to the Berlin Academy, to which he was elected in 1878:— + </p> + <p> + "Here is a really curious thing, considering that Brewster is President + and Balfour Secretary. I have been elected Honorary Member of the Royal + Society of Edinburgh. And this leads me to a third question. Does the + Berlin Academy of Sciences send their Proceedings to Honorary Members? I + want to know, to ascertain whether I am a member; I suppose not, for I + think it would have made some impression on me; yet I distinctly remember + receiving some diploma signed by Ehrenberg. I have been so careless; I + have lost several diplomas, and now I want to know what Societies I belong + to, as I observe every [one] tacks their titles to their names in the + catalogue of the Royal Soc."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, February 21 [1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have taken a long time to thank you very much for your present of the + 'Elements.' + </p> + <p> + I am going through it all, reading what is new, and what I have forgotten, + and this is a good deal. + </p> + <p> + I am simply astonished at the amount of labour, knowledge, and clear + thought condensed in this work. The whole strikes me as something quite + grand. I have been particularly interested by your account of Heer's work + and your discussion on the Atlantic Continent. I am particularly delighted + at the view which you take on this subject; for I have long thought Forbes + did an ill service in so freely making continents. + </p> + <p> + I have also been very glad to read your argument on the denudation of the + Weald, and your excellent resume on the Purbeck Beds; and this is the + point at which I have at present arrived in your book. I cannot say that I + am quite convinced that there is no connection beyond that pointed out by + you, between glacial action and the formation of lake basins; but you will + not much value my opinion on this head, as I have already changed my mind + some half-dozen times. + </p> + <p> + I want to make a suggestion to you. I found the weight of your volume + intolerable, especially when lying down, so with great boldness cut it + into two pieces, and took it out of its cover; now could not Murray + without any other change add to his advertisement a line saying, "if bound + in two volumes, one shilling or one shilling and sixpence extra." You thus + might originate a change which would be a blessing to all weak-handed + readers. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Lyell, Yours most sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + Originate a second REAL BLESSING and have the edges of the sheets cut like + a bound book. (This was a favourite reform of my father's. He wrote to the + "Athenaeum" on the subject, February 5, 1867, pointing out how that a book + cut, even carefully, with a paper knife collects dust on its edges far + more than a machine-cut book. He goes on to quote the case of a lady of + his acquaintance who was in the habit of cutting books with her thumb, and + finally appeals to the "Athenaeum" to earn the gratitude of children "who + have to cut through dry and pictureless books for the benefit of their + elders." He tried to introduce the reform in the case of his own books, + but found the conservatism of booksellers too strong for him. The + presentation copies, however, of all his later books were sent out with + the edges cut.) + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. Down, June 11 [1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lubbock, + </p> + <p> + The latter half of your book ('Prehistoric Times,' 1865.) has been read + aloud to me, and the style is so clear and easy (we both think it + perfection) that I am now beginning at the beginning. I cannot resist + telling you how excellently well, in my opinion, you have done the very + interesting chapter on savage life. Though you have necessarily only + compiled the materials the general result is most original. But I ought to + keep the term original for your last chapter, which has struck me as an + admirable and profound discussion. It has quite delighted me, for now the + public will see what kind of man you are, which I am proud to think I + discovered a dozen years ago. + </p> + <p> + I do sincerely wish you all success in your election and in politics; but + after reading this last chapter, you must let me say: oh, dear! oh, dear! + oh dear! + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—You pay me a superb compliment ('Prehistoric Times,' page 487, + where the words, "the discoveries of a Newton or a Darwin," occur.), but I + fear you will be quizzed for it by some of your friends as too + exaggerated. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to Fritz Muller's book, 'Fur Darwin,' which + was afterwards translated, at my father's suggestion, by Mr. Dallas. It is + of interest as being the first of the long series of letters which my + father wrote to this distinguished naturalist. They never met, but the + correspondence with Muller, which continued to the close of my father's + life, was a source of very great pleasure to him. My impression is that of + all his unseen friends Fritz Muller was the one for whom he had the + strongest regard. Fritz Muller is the brother of another distinguished + man, the late Hermann Muller, the author of 'Die Befruchtung der Blumen,' + and of much other valuable work:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, August 10 [1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have been for a long time so ill that I have only just finished hearing + read aloud your work on species. And now you must permit me to thank you + cordially for the great interest with which I have read it. You have done + admirable service in the cause in which we both believe. Many of your + arguments seem to me excellent, and many of your facts wonderful. Of the + latter, nothing has surprised me so much as the two forms of males. I have + lately investigated the cases of dimorphic plants, and I should much like + to send you one or two of my papers if I knew how. I did send lately by + post a paper on climbing plants, as an experiment to see whether it would + reach you. One of the points which has struck me most in your paper is + that on the differences in the air-breathing apparatus of the several + forms. This subject appeared to me very important when I formerly + considered the electric apparatus of fishes. Your observations on + Classification and Embryology seem to me very good and original. They show + what a wonderful field there is for enquiry on the development of + crustacea, and nothing has convinced me so plainly what admirable results + we shall arrive at in Natural History in the course of a few years. What a + marvellous range of structure the crustacea present, and how well adapted + they are for your enquiry! Until reading your book I knew nothing of the + Rhizocephala; pray look at my account and figures of Anelasma, for it + seems to me that this latter cirripede is a beautiful connecting link with + the Rhizocephala. + </p> + <p> + If ever you have any opportunity, as you are so skilful a dissector, I + much wish that you would look to the orifice at the base of the first pair + of cirrhi in cirripedes, and at the curious organ in it, and discover what + its nature is; I suppose I was quite in error, yet I cannot feel fully + satisfied at Krohn's (See vol. ii., pages 138, 187.) observations. Also if + you ever find any species of Scalpellum, pray look for complemental males; + a German author has recently doubted my observations for no reason except + that the facts appeared to him so strange. + </p> + <p> + Permit me again to thank you cordially for the pleasure which I have + derived from your work and to express my sincere admiration for your + valuable researches. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, dear Sir, with sincere respect, Yours very faithfully, CH. + DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I do not know whether you care at all about plants, but if so, + I should much like to send you my little work on the 'Fertilization of + Orchids,' and I think I have a German copy. + </p> + <p> + Could you spare me a photograph of yourself? I should much like to possess + one. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, Thursday, 27th [September, + 1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I had intended writing this morning to thank Mrs. Hooker most sincerely + for her last and several notes about you, and now your own note in your + hand has rejoiced me. To walk between five and six miles is splendid, with + a little patience you must soon be well. I knew you had been very ill, but + I hardly knew how ill, until yesterday, when Bentham (from the Cranworths + (Robert Rolfe, Lord Cranworth, and Lord Chancellor of England, lived at + Holwood, near Down.)) called here, and I was able to see him for ten + minutes. He told me also a little about the last days of your father (Sir + William Hooker; 1785-1865. He took charge of the Royal Gardens at Kew, in + 1840, when they ceased to be the private gardens of the Royal Family. In + doing so, he gave up his professorship at Glasgow—and with it half + of his income. He founded the herbarium and library, and within ten years + he succeeded in making the gardens the first in the world. It is, thus, + not too much to say that the creation of the establishment at Kew is due + to the abilities and self-devotion of Sir William Hooker. While, for the + subsequent development of the gardens up to their present magnificent + condition, the nation must thank Sir Joseph Hooker, in whom the same + qualities are so conspicuous.); I wish I had known your father better, my + impression is confined to his remarkably cordial, courteous, and frank + bearing. I fully concur and understand what you say about the difference + of feeling in the loss of a father and child. I do not think any one could + love a father much more than I did mine, and I do not believe three or + four days ever pass without my still thinking of him, but his death at + eight-four caused me nothing of that insufferable grief (I may quote here + a passage from a letter of November, 1863. It was written to a friend who + had lost his child: "How well I remember your feeling, when we lost Annie. + It was my greatest comfort that I had never spoken a harsh word to her. + Your grief has made me shed a few tears over our poor darling; but believe + me that these tears have lost that unutterable bitterness of former + days.") which the loss of our poor dear Annie caused. And this seems to me + perfectly natural, for one knows for years previously that one's father's + death is drawing slowly nearer and nearer, while the death of one's child + is a sudden and dreadful wrench. What a wonderful deal you read; it is a + horrid evil for me that I can read hardly anything, for it makes my head + almost immediately begin to sing violently. My good womenkind read to me a + great deal, but I dare not ask for much science, and am not sure that I + could stand it. I enjoyed Tylor ('Researches into the Early History of + Mankind,' by E.B. Tylor. 1865.) EXTREMELY, and the first part of Lecky + 'The Rise of Rationalism in Europe,' by W.E.H. Lecky. 1865.); but I think + the latter is often vague, and gives a false appearance of throwing light + on his subject by such phrases as "spirit of the age," "spread of + civilization," etc. I confine my reading to a quarter or half hour per day + in skimming through the back volumes of the Annals and Magazine of Natural + History, and find much that interests me. I miss my climbing plants very + much, as I could observe them when very poorly. + </p> + <p> + I did not enjoy the 'Mill on the Floss' so much as you, but from what you + say we will read it again. Do you know 'Silas Marner'? it is a charming + little story; if you run short, and like to have it, we could send it by + post... We have almost finished the first volume of Palgrave (William + Gifford Palgrave's 'Travels in Arabia,' published in 1865.), and I like it + much; but did you ever see a book so badly arranged? The frequency of the + allusions to what will be told in the future are quite laughable... By the + way, I was very much pleased with the foot-note (The passage which seems + to be referred to occurs in the text (page 479) of 'Prehistoric Times.' It + expresses admiration of Mr. Wallace's paper in the 'Anthropological + Review' (May, 1864), and speaks of the author's "characteristic + unselfishness" in ascribing the theory of Natural Selection "unreservedly + to Mr. Darwin." about Wallace in Lubbock's last chapter. I had not heard + that Huxley had backed up Lubbock about Parliament... Did you see a sneer + some time ago in the "Times" about how incomparably more interesting + politics were compared with science even to scientific men? Remember what + Trollope says, in 'Can you Forgive her,' about getting into Parliament, as + the highest earthly ambition. Jeffrey, in one of his letters, I remember, + says that making an effective speech in Parliament is a far grander thing + than writing the grandest history. All this seems to me a poor + short-sighted view. I cannot tell you how it has rejoiced me once again + seeing your handwriting— my best of old friends. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In October he wrote Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "Talking of the 'Origin,' a Yankee has called my attention to a paper + attached to Dr. Wells's famous 'Essay on Dew,' which was read in 1813 to + the Royal Society, but not [then] printed, in which he applies most + distinctly the principle of Natural Selection to the Races of Man. So poor + old Patrick Matthew is not the first, and he cannot, or ought not, any + longer to put on his title-pages, 'Discoverer of the principle of Natural + Selection'!"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F.W. FARRAR. (Canon of Westminster.) Down, + November 2 [1865?]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + As I have never studied the science of language, it may perhaps seem + presumptuous, but I cannot resist the pleasure of telling you what + interest and pleasure I have derived from hearing read aloud your volume + ('Chapters on Language,' 1865.) + </p> + <p> + I formerly read Max Muller, and thought his theory (if it deserves to be + called so) both obscure and weak; and now, after hearing what you say, I + feel sure that this is the case, and that your cause will ultimately + triumph. My indirect interest in your book has been increased from Mr. + Hensleigh Wedgwood, whom you often quote, being my brother-in-law. + </p> + <p> + No one could dissent from my views on the modification of species with + more courtesy than you do. But from the tenor of your mind I feel an + entire and comfortable conviction (and which cannot possibly be disturbed) + that if your studies led you to attend much to general questions in + natural history you would come to the same conclusion that I have done. + </p> + <p> + Have you ever read Huxley's little book of Lectures? I would gladly send a + copy if you think you would read it. + </p> + <p> + Considering what Geology teaches us, the argument from the supposed + immutability of specific types seems to me much the same as if, in a + nation which had no old writings, some wise old savage was to say that his + language had never changed; but my metaphor is too long to fill up. + </p> + <p> + Pray believe me, dear Sir, yours very sincerely obliged, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + 1866. + </p> + <p> + [The year 1866 is given in my father's Diary in the following words:— + </p> + <p> + "Continued correcting chapters of 'Domestic Animals.' + </p> + <p> + March 1st.—Began on 4th edition of 'Origin' of 1250 copies (received + for it 238 pounds), making 7500 copies altogether. + </p> + <p> + May 10th.—Finished 'Origin,' except revises, and began going over + Chapter XIII. of 'Domestic Animals.' + </p> + <p> + November 21st.—Finished 'Pangenesis.' + </p> + <p> + December 21st.—Finished re-going over all chapters, and sent them to + printers. + </p> + <p> + December 22nd.—Began concluding chapter of book." + </p> + <p> + He was in London on two occasions for a week at a time, staying with his + brother, and for a few days (May 29th-June 2nd) in Surrey; for the rest of + the year he was at Down. + </p> + <p> + There seems to have been a gradual mending in his health; thus he wrote to + Mr. Wallace (January 1866):—"My health is so far improved that I am + able to work one or two hours a day." + </p> + <p> + With respect to the 4th edition he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "The new edition of the 'Origin' has caused me two great vexations. I + forgot Bates's paper on variation (This appears to refer to "Notes on + South American Butterflies," Trans. Entomolog. Soc., vol. v. (N.S.).), but + I remembered in time his mimetic work, and now, strange to say, I find I + have forgotten your Arctic paper! I know how it arose; I indexed for my + bigger work, and never expected that a new edition of the 'Origin' would + be wanted. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot say how all this has vexed me. Everything which I have read + during the last four years I find is quite washy in my mind." As far as I + know, Mr. Bates's paper was not mentioned in the later editions of the + 'Origin,' for what reason I cannot say. + </p> + <p> + In connection with his work on 'The Variation of Animals and Plants,' I + give here extracts from three letters addressed to Mr. Huxley, which are + of interest as giving some idea of the development of the theory of + 'Pangenesis,' ultimately published in 1868 in the book in question:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, May 27, [1865?]. + </p> + <p> + ... I write now to ask a favour of you, a very great favour from one so + hard worked as you are. It is to read thirty pages of MS., excellently + copied out and give me, not lengthened criticism, but your opinion whether + I may venture to publish it. You may keep the MS. for a month or two. I + would not ask this favour, but I REALLY know no one else whose judgment on + the subject would be final with me. + </p> + <p> + The case stands thus: in my next book I shall publish long chapters on + bud- and seminal-variation, on inheritance, reversion, effects of use and + disuse, etc. I have also for many years speculated on the different forms + of reproduction. Hence it has come to be a passion with me to try to + connect all such facts by some sort of hypothesis. The MS. which I wish to + send you gives such a hypothesis; it is a very rash and crude hypothesis, + yet it has been a considerable relief to my mind, and I can hang on it a + good many groups of facts. I well know that a mere hypothesis, and this is + nothing more, is of little value; but it is very useful to me as serving + as a kind of summary for certain chapters. Now I earnestly wish for your + verdict given briefly as, "Burn it"—or, which is the most favourable + verdict I can hope for, "It does rudely connect together certain facts, + and I do not think it will immediately pass out of my mind." If you can + say this much, and you do not think it absolutely ridiculous, I shall + publish it in my concluding chapter. Now will you grant me this favour? + You must refuse if you are too much overworked. + </p> + <p> + I must say for myself that I am a hero to expose my hypothesis to the + fiery ordeal of your criticism. + </p> + <p> + July 12, [1865?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + I thank you most sincerely for having so carefully considered my MS. It + has been a real act of kindness. It would have annoyed me extremely to + have re-published Buffon's views, which I did not know of, but I will get + the book; and if I have strength I will also read Bonnet. I do not doubt + your judgment is perfectly just, and I will try to persuade myself not to + publish. The whole affair is much too speculative; yet I think some such + view will have to be adopted, when I call to mind such facts as the + inherited effects of use and disuse, etc. But I will try to be cautious... + </p> + <p> + [1865?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Forgive my writing in pencil, as I can do so lying down. I have read + Buffon: whole pages are laughably like mine. It is surprising how candid + it makes one to see one's views in another man's words. I am rather + ashamed of the whole affair, but not converted to a no-belief. What a + kindness you have done me with your "vulpine sharpness." Nevertheless, + there is a fundamental distinction between Buffon's views and mine. He + does not suppose that each cell or atom of tissue throws off a little bud; + but he supposes that the sap or blood includes his "organic molecules," + WHICH ARE READY FORMED, fit to nourish each organ, and when this is fully + formed, they collect to form buds and the sexual elements. It is all + rubbish to speculate as I have done; yet, if I ever have strength to + publish my next book, I fear I shall not resist "Pangenesis," but I assure + you I will put it humbly enough. The ordinary course of development of + beings, such as the Echinodermata, in which new organs are formed at quite + remote spots from the analogous previous parts, seem to me extremely + difficult to reconcile on any view except the free diffusion in the parent + of the germs or gemmules of each separate new organ; and so in cases of + alternate generation. But I will not scribble any more. Hearty thanks to + you, you best of critics and most learned man... + </p> + <p> + [The letters now take up the history of the year 1866.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, July 5 [1866]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have been much interested by your letter, which is as clear as daylight. + I fully agree with all that you say on the advantages of H. Spencer's + excellent expression of "the survival of the fittest." (Extract from a + letter of Mr. Wallace's, July 2, 1866: "The term 'survival of the fittest' + is the plain expression of the fact; 'natural selection' is a metaphorical + expression of it, and to a certain degree indirect and incorrect, since... + Nature... does not so much select special varieties as exterminate the + most unfavourable ones.") This, however, had not occurred to me till + reading your letter. It is, however, a great objection to this term that + it cannot be used as a substantive governing a verb; and that this is a + real objection I infer from H. Spencer continually using the words, + natural selection. I formerly thought, probably in an exaggerated degree, + that it was a great advantage to bring into connection natural and + artificial selection; this indeed led me to use a term in common, and I + still think it some advantage. I wish I had received your letter two + months ago, for I would have worked in "the survival, etc.," often in the + new edition of the 'Origin,' which is now almost printed off, and of which + I will of course send you a copy. I will use the term in my next book on + Domestic Animals, etc., from which, by the way, I plainly see that you + expect MUCH, too much. The term Natural Selection has now been so largely + used abroad and at home, that I doubt whether it could be given up, and + with all its faults I should be sorry to see the attempt made. Whether it + will be rejected must now depend "on the survival of the fittest." As in + time the term must grow intelligible the objections to its use will grow + weaker and weaker. I doubt whether the use of any term would have made the + subject intelligible to some minds, clear as it is to others; for do we + not see even to the present day Malthus on Population absurdly + misunderstood? This reflection about Malthus has often comforted me when I + have been vexed at the misstatement of my views. As for M. Janet (This no + doubt refers to Janet's 'Materialisme Contemporain.'), he is a + metaphysician, and such gentlemen are so acute that I think they often + misunderstand common folk. Your criticism on the double sense ("I find you + use 'Natural Selection' in two senses. 1st, for the simple preservation of + favourable and rejection of unfavourable variations, in which case it is + equivalent to the 'survival of the fittest,'—and 2ndly, for the + effect or CHANGE produced by this preservation." Extract from Mr. + Wallace's letter above quoted.) in which I have used Natural Selection is + new to me and unanswerable; but my blunder has done no harm, for I do not + believe that any one, excepting you, has ever observed it. Again, I agree + that I have said too much about "favourable variations;" but I am inclined + to think that you put the opposite side too strongly; if every part of + every being varied, I do not think we should see the same end, or object, + gained by such wonderfully diversified means. + </p> + <p> + I hope you are enjoying the country, and are in good health, and are + working hard at your Malay Archipelago book, for I will always put this + wish in every note I write to you, like some good people always put in a + text. My health keeps much the same, or rather improves, and I am able to + work some hours daily. With many thanks for your interesting letter. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Wallace, yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, August 30 [1866]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I was very glad to get your note and the Notts. Newspaper. I have seldom + been more pleased in my life than at hearing how successfully your lecture + (At the Nottingham meeting of the British Association, August 27, 1866. + The subject of the lecture was 'Insular Floras.' See "Gardeners' + Chronicle", 1866.) went off. Mrs. H. Wedgwood sent us an account, saying + that you read capitally, and were listened to with profound attention and + great applause. She says, when your final allegory (Sir Joseph Hooker + allegorized the Oxford meeting of the British Association as the gathering + of a tribe of savages who believed that the new moon was created afresh + each month. The anger of the priests and medicine man at a certain heresy, + according to which the new moon is but the offspring of the old one, is + excellently given.) began, "for a minute or two we were all mystified, and + then came such bursts of applause from the audience. It was thoroughly + enjoyed amid roars of laughter and noise, making a most brilliant + conclusion." + </p> + <p> + I am rejoiced that you will publish your lecture, and felt sure that + sooner or later it would come to this, indeed it would have been a sin if + you had not done so. I am especially rejoiced as you give the arguments + for occasional transport, with such perfect fairness; these will now + receive a fair share of attention, as coming from you a professed + botanist. Thanks also for Grove's address; as a whole it strikes me as + very good and original, but I was disappointed in the part about Species; + it dealt in such generalities that it would apply to any view or no view + in particular... + </p> + <p> + And now farewell. I do most heartily rejoice at your success, and for + Grove's sake at the brilliant success of the whole meeting. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter is of interest, as giving the beginning of the connection + which arose between my father and Professor Victor Carus. The translation + referred to is the third German edition made from the fourth English one. + From this time forward Professor Carus continued to translate my father's + books into German. The conscientious care with which this work was done + was of material service, and I well remember the admiration (mingled with + a tinge of vexation at his own short-comings) with which my father used to + receive the lists of oversights, etc., which Professor Carus discovered in + the course of translation. The connection was not a mere business one, but + was cemented by warm feelings of regard on both sides.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO VICTOR CARUS. Down, November 10, 1866. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your extremely kind letter. I cannot express too strongly + my satisfaction that you have undertaken the revision of the new edition, + and I feel the honour which you have conferred on me. I fear that you will + find the labour considerable, not only on account of the additions, but I + suspect that Bronn's translation is very defective, at least I have heard + complaints on this head from quite a large number of persons. It would be + a great gratification to me to know that the translation was a really good + one, such as I have no doubt you will produce. According to our English + practice, you will be fully justified in entirely omitting Bronn's + Appendix, and I shall be very glad of its omission. A new edition may be + looked at as a new work... You could add anything of your own that you + liked, and I should be much pleased. Should you make any additions or + append notes, it appears to me that Nageli "Entstehung und Begriff," etc. + ('Entstehung und Begriff der Naturhistorischen Art.' An address given at a + public meeting of the 'R. Academy of Sciences' at Munich, March 28, + 1865.), would be worth noticing, as one of the most able pamphlets on the + subject. I am, however, far from agreeing with him that the acquisition of + certain characters which appear to be of no service to plants, offers any + great difficulty, or affords a proof of some innate tendency in plants + towards perfection. If you intend to notice this pamphlet, I should like + to write hereafter a little more in detail on the subject. + </p> + <p> + ... I wish I had known when writing my Historical Sketch that you had in + 1853 published your views on the genealogical connection of past and + present forms. + </p> + <p> + I suppose you have the sheets of the last English edition on which I + marked with pencil all the chief additions, but many little corrections of + style were not marked. + </p> + <p> + Pray believe that I feel sincerely grateful for the great service and + honour which you do me by the present translation. + </p> + <p> + I remain, my dear Sir, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I should be VERY MUCH pleased to possess your photograph, and I + send mine in case you should like to have a copy. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. NAGELI. (Professor of Botany at Munich.) + Down, June 12 [1866]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope you will excuse the liberty which I take in writing to you. I have + just read, though imperfectly, your 'Entstehung und Begriff,' and have + been so greatly interested by it, that I have sent it to be translated, as + I am a poor German scholar. I have just finished a new [4th] edition of my + 'Origin,' which will be translated into German, and my object in writing + to you is to say that if you should see this edition you would think that + I had borrowed from you, without acknowledgment, two discussions on the + beauty of flowers and fruit; but I assure you every word was printed off + before I had opened your pamphlet. Should you like to possess a copy of + either the German or English new edition, I should be proud to send one. I + may add, with respect to the beauty of flowers, that I have already hinted + the same views as you hold in my paper on Lythrum. + </p> + <p> + Many of your criticisms on my views are the best which I have met with, + but I could answer some, at least to my own satisfaction; and I regret + extremely that I had not read your pamphlet before printing my new + edition. On one or two points, I think, you have a little misunderstood + me, though I dare say I have not been cautious in expressing myself. The + remark which has struck me most, is that on the position of the leaves not + having been acquired through natural selection, from not being of any + special importance to the plant. I well remember being formerly troubled + by an analogous difficulty, namely, the position of the ovules, their + anatropous condition, etc. It was owing to forgetfulness that I did not + notice this difficulty in the 'Origin.' (Nageli's Essay is noticed in the + 5th edition.) Although I can offer no explanation of such facts, and only + hope to see that they may be explained, yet I hardly see how they support + the doctrine of some law of necessary development, for it is not clear to + me that a plant, with its leaves placed at some particular angle, or with + its ovules in some particular position, thus stands higher than another + plant. But I must apologise for troubling you with these remarks. + </p> + <p> + As I much wish to possess your photograph, I take the liberty of enclosing + my own, and with sincere respect I remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [I give a few extracts from letters of various dates showing my father's + interest, alluded to in the last letter, in the problem of the arrangement + of the leaves on the stems of plants. It may be added that Professor + Schwendener of Berlin has successfully attacked the question in his + 'Mechanische Theorie der Blattstellungen,' 1878. + </p> + <p> + TO DR. FALCONER. August 26 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember telling me that I ought to study Phyllotaxy? Well I have + often wished you at the bottom of the sea; for I could not resist, and I + muddled my brains with diagrams, etc., and specimens, and made out, as + might have been expected, nothing. Those angles are a most wonderful + problem and I wish I could see some one give a rational explanation of + them." + </p> + <p> + TO DR. ASA GRAY. May 11 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + "If you wish to save me from a miserable death, do tell me why the angles + 1/2, 1/3, 2/5, 3/8, etc, series occur, and no other angles. It is enough + to drive the quietest man mad. Did you and some mathematician (Probably my + father was thinking of Chauncey Wright's work on Phyllotaxy, in Gould's + 'Astronomical Journal,' No.99, 1856, and in the 'Mathematical Monthly,' + 1859. These papers are mentioned in the "Letters of Chauncey Wright.' Mr. + Wright corresponded with my father on the subject.) publish some paper on + the subject? Hooker says you did; where is it? + </p> + <p> + TO DR. ASA GRAY. [May 31, 1863?]. + </p> + <p> + "I have been looking at Nageli's work on this subject, and am astonished + to see that the angle is not always the same in young shoots when the + lea-buds are first distinguishable, as in full-grown branches. This shows, + I think, that there must be some potent cause for those angles which do + occur: I dare say there is some explanation as simple as that for the + angles of the Bees-cells." + </p> + <p> + My father also corresponded with Dr. Hubert Airy and was interested in his + views on the subject, published in the Royal Soc. Proceedings, 1873, page + 176. + </p> + <p> + We now return to the year 1866. + </p> + <p> + In November, when the prosecution of Governor Eyre was dividing England + into two bitterly opposed parties, he wrote to Sir J. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "You will shriek at me when you hear that I have just subscribed to the + Jamaica Committee." (He subscribed 10 pounds.) + </p> + <p> + On this subject I quote from a letter of my brother's:— + </p> + <p> + "With respect to Governor Eyre's conduct in Jamaica, he felt strongly that + J.S. Mill was right in prosecuting him. I remember one evening, at my + Uncle's, we were talking on the subject, and as I happened to think it was + too strong a measure to prosecute Governor Eyre for murder, I made some + foolish remark about the prosecutors spending the surplus of the fund in a + dinner. My father turned on me almost with fury, and told me, if those + were my feelings, I had better go back to Southampton; the inhabitants + having given a dinner to Governor Eyre on his landing, but with which I + had had nothing to do." The end of the incident, as told by my brother, is + so characteristic of my father that I cannot resist giving it, though it + has no bearing on the point at issue. "Next morning at 7 o'clock, or so, + he came into my bedroom and sat on my bed, and said that he had not been + able to sleep from the thought that he had been so angry with me, and + after a few more kind words he left me." + </p> + <p> + The same restless desire to correct a disagreeable or incorrect impression + is well illustrated in an extract which I quote from some notes by Rev. J. + Brodie Innes:— + </p> + <p> + "Allied to the extreme carefulness of observation was his most remarkable + truthfulness in all matters. On one occasion, when a parish meeting had + been held on some disputed point of no great importance, I was surprised + by a visit from Mr. Darwin at night. He came to say that, thinking over + the debate, though what he had said was quite accurate, he thought I might + have drawn an erroneous conclusion, and he would not sleep till he had + explained it. I believe that if on any day some certain fact had come to + his knowledge which contradicted his most cherished theories, he would + have placed the fact on record for publication before he slept." + </p> + <p> + This tallies with my father's habits, as described by himself. When a + difficulty or an objection occurred to him, he thought it of paramount + importance to make a note of it instantly because he found hostile facts + to be especially evanescent. + </p> + <p> + The same point is illustrated by the following incident, for which I am + indebted to Mr. Romanes:— + </p> + <p> + "I have always remembered the following little incident as a good example + of Mr. Darwin's extreme solicitude on the score of accuracy. One evening + at Down there was a general conversation upon the difficulty of explaining + the evolution of some of the distinctively human emotions, especially + those appertaining to the recognition of beauty in natural scenery. I + suggested a view of my own upon the subject, which, depending upon the + principle of association, required the supposition that a long line of + ancestors should have inhabited regions, the scenery of which is now + regarded as beautiful. Just as I was about to observe that the chief + difficulty attaching to my hypothesis arose from feelings of the sublime + (seeing that these are associated with awe, and might therefore be + expected not to be agreeable), Mr. Darwin anticipated the remark, by + asking how the hypothesis was to meet the case of these feelings. In the + conversation which followed, he said the occasion in his own life, when he + was most affected by the emotions of the sublime was when he stood upon + one of the summits of the Cordillera, and surveyed the magnificent + prospect all around. It seemed, as he quaintly observed, as if his nerves + had become fiddle strings, and had all taken to rapidly vibrating. This + remark was only made incidentally, and the conversation passed into some + other branch. About an hour afterwards Mr. Darwin retired to rest, while I + sat up in the smoking-room with one of his sons. We continued smoking and + talking for several hours, when at about one o'clock in the morning the + door gently opened and Mr. Darwin appeared, in his slippers and + dressing-gown. As nearly as I can remember, the following are the words he + used:— + </p> + <p> + "'Since I went to bed I have been thinking over our conversation in the + drawing-room, and it has just occurred to me that I was wrong in telling + you I felt most of the sublime when on the top of the Cordillera; I am + quite sure that I felt it even more when in the forests of Brazil. I + thought it best to come and tell you this at once in case I should be + putting you wrong. I am sure now that I felt most sublime in the forests.' + </p> + <p> + "This was all he had come to say, and it was evident that he had come to + do so, because he thought that the fact of his feeling 'most sublime in + forests' was more in accordance with the hypothesis which we had been + discussing, than the fact which he had previously stated. Now, as no one + knew better than Mr. Darwin the difference between a speculation and a + fact, I thought this little exhibition of scientific conscientiousness + very noteworthy, where the only question concerned was of so highly + speculative a character. I should not have been so much impressed if he + had thought that by his temporary failure of memory he had put me on a + wrong scent in any matter of fact, although even in such a case he is the + only man I ever knew who would care to get out of bed at such a time at + night in order to make the correction immediately, instead of waiting till + next morning. But as the correction only had reference to a flimsy + hypothesis, I certainly was very much impressed by this display of + character."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, December 10 [1866]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have now read the last No. of H. Spencer. ('Principles of Biology.') + I do not know whether to think it better than the previous number, but it + is wonderfully clever, and I dare say mostly true. I feel rather mean when + I read him: I could bear, and rather enjoy feeling that he was twice as + ingenious and clever as myself, but when I feel that he is about a dozen + times my superior, even in the master art of wriggling, I feel aggrieved. + If he had trained himself to observe more, even if at the expense, by the + law of balancement, of some loss of thinking power, he would have been a + wonderful man. + </p> + <p> + ... I am HEARTILY glad you are taking up the Distribution of Plants in New + Zealand, and suppose it will make part of your new book. Your view, as I + understand it, that New Zealand subsided and formed two or more small + islands, and then rose again, seems to me extremely probable... When I + puzzled my brains about New Zealand, I remember I came to the conclusion, + as indeed I state in the 'Origin,' that its flora, as well as that of + other southern lands, had been tinctured by an Antarctic flora, which must + have existed before the Glacial period. I concluded that New Zealand never + could have been closely connected with Australia, though I supposed it had + received some few Australian forms by occasional means of transport. Is + there any reason to suppose that New Zealand could have been more closely + connected with South Australia during the glacial period, when the + Eucalypti, etc., might have been driven further North? Apparently there + remains only the line, which I think you suggested, of sunken islands from + New Caledonia. Please remember that the Edwardsia was certainly drifted + there by the sea. + </p> + <p> + I remember in old days speculating on the amount of life, i.e. of organic + chemical change, at different periods. There seems to me one very + difficult element in the problem, namely, the state of development of the + organic beings at each period, for I presume that a Flora and Fauna of + cellular cryptogamic plants, of Protozoa and Radiata would lead to much + less chemical change than is now going on. But I have scribbled enough. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter is in acknowledgment of Mr. Rivers' reply to an + earlier letter in which my father had asked for information on + bu-variation: + </p> + <p> + It may find a place here in illustration of the manner of my father's + intercourse with those "whose avocations in life had to do with the + rearing or use of living things" ("Mr. Dyer in 'Charles Darwin,'" "Nature + Series", 1882, page 39.)—an intercourse which bore such good fruit + in the 'Variation of Animals and Plants.' Mr. Dyer has some excellent + remarks on the unexpected value thus placed on apparently trivial facts + disinterred from weekly journals, or amassed by correspondence. He adds: + "Horticulturists who had... moulded plants almost at their will at the + impulse of taste or profit were at once amazed and charmed to find that + they had been doing scientific work and helping to establish a great + theory."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T. RIVERS. (The late Mr. Rivers was an eminent + horticulturist and writer on horticulture.) Down, December 28 [1866?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Permit me to thank you cordially for your most kind letter. For years I + have read with interest every scrap which you have written in periodicals, + and abstracted in MS. your book on Roses, and several times I thought I + would write to you, but did not know whether you would think me too + intrusive. I shall, indeed, be truly obliged for any information you can + supply me on bud-variation or sports. When any extra difficult points + occur to me in my present subject (which is a mass of difficulties), I + will apply to you, but I will not be unreasonable. It is most true what + you say that any one to study well the physiology of the life of plants, + ought to have under his eye a multitude of plants. I have endeavoured to + do what I can by comparing statements by many writers and observing what I + could myself. Unfortunately few have observed like you have done. As you + are so kind, I will mention one other point on which I am collecting + facts; namely, the effect produced on the stock by the graft; thus, it is + SAID, that the purple-leaved filbert affects the leaves of the common + hazel on which it is grafted (I have just procured a plant to try), so + variegated jessamine is SAID to affect its stock. I want these facts + partly to throw light on the marvellous laburnum Adami, trifacial oranges, + etc. That laburnum case seems one of the strangest in physiology. I have + now growing splendid, FERTILE, yellow laburnums (with a long raceme like + the so-called Waterer's laburnum) from seed of yellow flowers on the C. + Adami. To a man like myself, who is compelled to live a solitary life, and + sees few persons, it is no slight satisfaction to hear that I have been + able at all [to] interest by my books observers like yourself. + </p> + <p> + As I shall publish on my present subject, I presume, within a year, it + will be of no use your sending me the shoots of peaches and nectarines + which you so kindly offer; I have recorded your facts. + </p> + <p> + Permit me again to thank you cordially; I have not often in my life + received a kinder letter. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.V. — THE PUBLICATION OF THE 'VARIATION OF ANIMALS AND + PLANTS UNDER DOMESTICATION.' + </h2> + <h3> + JANUARY 1867, TO JUNE 1868. + </h3> + <p> + [At the beginning of the year 1867 he was at work on the final chapter—"Concluding + Remarks" of the 'Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication,' + which was begun after the rest of the MS. had been sent to the printers in + the preceding December. With regard to the publication of the book he + wrote to Mr. Murray, on January 3:— + </p> + <p> + "I cannot tell you how sorry I am to hear of the enormous size of my book. + (On January 9 he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker: "I have been these last few + days vexed and annoyed to a foolish degree by hearing that my MS. on Dom. + An. and Cult. Plants will make 2 volumes, both bigger than the 'Origin.' + The volumes will have to be full-sized octavo, so I have written to Murray + to suggest details to be printed in small type. But I feel that the size + is quite ludicrous in relation to the subject. I am ready to swear at + myself and at every fool who writes a book.") I fear it can never pay. But + I cannot shorten it now; nor, indeed, if I had foreseen its length, do I + see which parts ought to have been omitted. + </p> + <p> + "If you are afraid to publish it, say so at once, I beg you, and I will + consider your note as cancelled. If you think fit, get any one whose + judgment you rely on, to look over some of the more legible chapters, + namely, the Introduction, and on dogs and plants, the latter chapters + being in my opinion, the dullest in the book... The list of chapters, and + the inspection of a few here and there, would give a good judge a fair + idea of the whole book. Pray do not publish blindly, as it would vex me + all my life if I led you to heavy loss." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Murray referred the MS. to a literary friend, and, in spite of a + somewhat adverse opinion, willingly agreed to publish the book. My father + wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "Your note has been a great relief to me. I am rather alarmed about the + verdict of your friend, as he is not a man of science. I think if you had + sent the 'Origin' to an unscientific man, he would have utterly condemned + it. I am, however, VERY GLAD that you have consulted any one on whom you + can rely. + </p> + <p> + "I must add, that my 'Journal of Researches' was seen in MS. by an eminent + semi-scientific man, and was pronounced unfit for publication." + </p> + <p> + The proofs were begun in March, and the last revise was finished on + November 15th, and during this period the only intervals of rest were two + visits of a week each at his brother Erasmus's house in Queen Anne Street. + He notes in his Diary:— + </p> + <p> + "I began this book [in the] beginning of 1860 (and then had some MS.), but + owing to interruptions from my illness, and illness of children; from + various editions of the 'Origin,' and Papers, especially Orchis book and + Tendrils, I have spent four years and two months over it." + </p> + <p> + The edition of 'Animals and Plants' was of 1500 copies, and of these 1260 + were sold at Mr. Murray's autumnal sale, but it was not published until + January 30, 1868. A new edition of 1250 copies was printed in February of + the same year. + </p> + <p> + In 1867 he received the distinction of being made a knight of the Prussian + Order "Pour le Merite." (The Order "Pour le Merite" was founded in 1740 by + Frederick II. by the re-christening of an "Order of Generosity," founded + in 1665. It was at one time strictly military, having been previously both + civil and military, and in 1840 the Order was again opened to civilians. + The order consists of thirty members of German extraction, but + distinguished foreigners are admitted to a kind of extraordinary + membership. Faraday, Herschel, and Thomas Moore, have belonged to it in + this way. From the thirty members a chancellor is elected by the king (the + first officer of this kind was Alexander v. Humboldt); and it is the duty + of the chancellor to notify a vacancy in the Order to the remainder of the + thirty, who then elect by vote the new member—but the king has + technically the appointment in his own hands.) He seems not to have known + how great the distinction was, for in June 1868 he wrote to Sir J.D. + Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "What a man you are for sympathy. I was made "Eques" some months ago, but + did not think much about it. Now, by Jove, we all do; but you, in fact, + have knighted me." + </p> + <p> + The letters may now take up the story.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 8 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I am heartily glad that you have been offered the Presidentship of the + British Association, for it is a great honour, and as you have so much + work to do, I am equally glad that you have declined it. I feel, however, + convinced that you would have succeeded very well; but if I fancy myself + in such a position, it actually makes my blood run cold. I look back with + amazement at the skill and taste with which the Duke of Argyll made a + multitude of little speeches at Glasgow. By the way, I have not seen the + Duke's book ('The Reign of Law,' 1867.), but I formerly thought that some + of the articles which appeared in periodicals were very clever, but not + very profound. One of these was reviewed in the "Saturday Review" + ("Saturday Review", November 15, 1862, 'The "Edinburgh Review" on the + Supernatural.' Written by my cousin, Mr. Henry Parker.) some years ago, + and the fallacy of some main argument was admirably exposed, and I sent + the article to you, and you agreed strongly with it... There was the other + day a rather good review of the Duke's book in the "Spectator", and with a + new explanation, either by the Duke or the reviewer (I could not make out + which), of rudimentary organs, namely, that economy of labour and material + was a great guiding principle with God (ignoring waste of seed and of + young monsters, etc.), and that making a new plan for the structure of + animals was thought, and thought was labour, and therefore God kept to a + uniform plan, and left rudiments. This is no exaggeration. In short, God + is a man, rather cleverer than us... I am very much obliged for the + "Nation" (returned by this post); it is ADMIRABLY good. You say I always + guess wrong, but I do not believe any one, except Asa Gray, could have + done the thing so well. I would bet even, or three to two, that it is Asa + Gray, though one or two passages staggered me. + </p> + <p> + I finish my book on 'Domestic Animals,' etc., by a single paragraph, + answering, or rather throwing doubt, in so far as so little space permits, + on Asa Gray's doctrine that each variation has been specially ordered or + led along a beneficial line. It is foolish to touch such subjects, but + there have been so many allusions to what I think about the part which God + has played in the formation of organic beings (Prof. Judd allows me to + quote from some notes which he has kindly given me:—"Lyell once told + me that he had frequently been asked if Darwin was not one of the most + unhappy of men, it being suggested that his outrage upon public opinion + should have filled him with remorse." Sir Charles Lyell must have been + able, I think, to give a satisfactory answer on this point. Professor Judd + continues:— + </p> + <p> + "I made a note of this and other conversations of Lyell's at the time. At + the present time such statements must appear strange to any one who does + not recollect the revolution in opinion which has taken place during the + last 23 years [1882]."), that I thought it shabby to evade the question... + I have even received several letters on the subject... I overlooked your + sentence about Providence, and suppose I treated it as Buckland did his + own theology, when his Bridgewater Treatise was read aloud to him for + correction... + </p> + <p> + [The following letter, from Mrs. Boole, is one of those referred to in the + last letter to Sir J.D. Hooker:] + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Will you excuse my venturing to ask you a question, to which no one's + answer but your own would be quite satisfactory? + </p> + <p> + Do you consider the holding of your theory of Natural Selection, in its + fullest and most unreserved sense, to be inconsistent—I do not say + with any particular scheme of theological doctrine—but with the + following belief, namely:— + </p> + <p> + That knowledge is given to man by the direct inspiration of the Spirit of + God. + </p> + <p> + That God is a personal and Infinitely good Being. + </p> + <p> + That the effect of the action of the Spirit of God on the brain of man is + especially a moral effect. + </p> + <p> + And that each individual man has within certain limits a power of choice + as to how far he will yield to his hereditary animal impulses, and how far + he will rather follow the guidance of the Spirit, who is educating him + into a power of resisting those impulses in obedience to moral motives? + </p> + <p> + The reason why I ask you is this: my own impression has always been, not + only that your theory was perfectly COMPATIBLE with the faith to which I + have just tried to give expression, but that your books afforded me a clue + which would guide me in applying that faith to the solution of certain + complicated psychological problems which it was of practical importance to + me as a mother to solve. I felt that you had supplied one of the missing + links—not to say THE missing link—between the facts of science + and the promises of religion. Every year's experience tends to deepen in + me that impression. + </p> + <p> + But I have lately read remarks on the probable bearing of your theory on + religious and moral questions which have perplexed and pained me sorely. I + know that the persons who make such remarks must be cleverer and wiser + than myself. I cannot feel sure that they are mistaken, unless you will + tell me so. And I think—I cannot know for certain—but I THINK—that + if I were an author, I would rather that the humblest student of my works + should apply to me directly in a difficulty, than that she should puzzle + too long over adverse and probably mistaken or thoughtless criticisms. + </p> + <p> + At the same time I feel that you have a perfect right to refuse to answer + such questions as I have asked you. Science must take her path, and + Theology hers, and they will meet when and where and how God pleases, and + you are in no sense responsible for it if the meeting-point should still + be very far off. If I receive no answer to this letter I shall infer + nothing from your silence, except that you felt I had no right to make + such enquiries of a stranger. + </p> + <p> + [My father replied as follows:] + </p> + <p> + Down, December 14, [1866]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + It would have gratified me much if I could have sent satisfactory answers + to your questions, or, indeed, answers of any kind. But I cannot see how + the belief that all organic beings, including man, have been genetically + derived from some simple being, instead of having been separately created, + bears on your difficulties. These, as it seems to me, can be answered only + by widely different evidence from science, or by the so-called "inner + consciousness." My opinion is not worth more than that of any other man + who has thought on such subjects, and it would be folly in me to give it. + I may, however, remark that it has always appeared to me more satisfactory + to look at the immense amount of pain and suffering in this world as the + inevitable result of the natural sequence of events, i.e. general laws, + rather than from the direct intervention of God, though I am aware this is + not logical with reference to an omniscient Deity. Your last question + seems to resolve itself into the problem of free will and necessity, which + has been found by most persons insoluble. I sincerely wish that this note + had not been as utterly valueless as it is. I would have sent full + answers, though I have little time or strength to spare, had it been in my + power. I have the honour to remain, dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + Yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I am grieved that my views should incidentally have caused + trouble to your mind, but I thank you for your judgment, and honour you + for it, that theology and science should each run its own course, and that + in the present case I am not responsible if their meeting-point should + still be far off. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter discusses the 'Reign of Law,' referred to a few pages + back:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, June 1 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am at present reading the Duke, and am VERY MUCH interested by him; + yet I cannot but think, clever as the whole is, that parts are weak, as + when he doubts whether each curvature of the beak of humming-birds is of + service to each species. He admits, perhaps too fully, that I have shown + the use of each little ridge and shape of each petal in orchids, and how + strange he does not extend the view to humming-birds. Still odder, it + seems to me, all that he says on beauty, which I should have thought a + nonentity, except in the mind of some sentient being. He might have as + well said that love existed during the secondary or Palaeozoic periods. I + hope you are getting on with your book better than I am with mine, which + kills me with the labour of correcting, and is intolerably dull, though I + did not think so when I was writing it. A naturalist's life would be a + happy one if he had only to observe, and never to write. + </p> + <p> + We shall be in London for a week in about a fortnight's time, and I shall + enjoy having a breakfast talk with you. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to the new and improved translation of the + 'Origin,' undertaken by Professor Carus:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. VICTOR CARUS. Down, February 17 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have read your preface with care. It seems to me that you have treated + Bronn with complete respect and great delicacy, and that you have alluded + to your own labour with much modesty. I do not think that any of Bronn's + friends can complain of what you say and what you have done. For my own + sake, I grieve that you have not added notes, as I am sure that I should + have profited much by them; but as you have omitted Bronn's objections, I + believe that you have acted with excellent judgment and fairness in + leaving the text without comment to the independent verdict of the reader. + I heartily congratulate you that the main part of your labour is over; it + would have been to most men a very troublesome task, but you seem to have + indomitable powers of work, judging from those two wonderful and most + useful volumes on zoological literature ('Bibliotheca Zoologica,' 1861.) + edited by you, and which I never open without surprise at their accuracy, + and gratitude for their usefulness. I cannot sufficiently tell you how + much I rejoice that you were persuaded to superintend the translation of + the present edition of my book, for I have now the great satisfaction of + knowing that the German public can judge fairly of its merits and + demerits... + </p> + <p> + With my cordial and sincere thanks, believe me, + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The earliest letter which I have seen from my father to Professor + Haeckel, was written in 1865, and from that time forward they corresponded + (though not, I think, with any regularity) up to the end of my father's + life. His friendship with Haeckel was not nearly growth of correspondence, + as was the case with some others, for instance, Fritz Muller. Haeckel paid + more than one visit to Down, and these were thoroughly enjoyed by my + father. The following letter will serve to show the strong feeling of + regard which he entertained for his correspondent—a feeling which I + have often heard him emphatically express, and which was warmly returned. + The book referred to is Haeckel's 'Generelle Morphologie,' published in + 1866, a copy of which my father received from the author in January 1867. + </p> + <p> + Dr. E. Krause ('Charles Darwin und sein Verhaltniss zu Deutschland,' + 1885.) has given a good account of Professor Haeckel's services to the + cause of Evolution. After speaking of the lukewarm reception which the + 'Origin' met with in Germany on its first publication, he goes on to + describe the first adherents of the new faith as more or less popular + writers, not especially likely to advance its acceptance with the + professorial or purely scientific world. And he claims for Haeckel that it + was his advocacy of Evolution in his 'Radiolaria' (1862), and at the + "Versammlung" of Naturalists at Stettin in 1863, that placed the Darwinian + question for the first time publicly before the forum of German science, + and his enthusiastic propagandism that chiefly contributed to its success. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Huxley, writing in 1869, paid a high tribute to Professor Haeckel as + the Coryphaeus of the Darwinian movement in Germany. Of his 'Generelle + Morphologie,' "an attempt to work out the practical application" of the + doctrine of Evolution to their final results, he says that it has the + "force and suggestiveness, and... systematising power of Oken without his + extravagance." Professor Huxley also testifies to the value of Haeckel's + 'Schopfungs-Geschichte' as an exposition of the 'Generelle Morphologie' + "for an educated public." + </p> + <p> + Again, in his 'Evolution in Biology' (An article in the 'Encyclopaedia + Britannica,' 9th edition, reprinted in 'Science and Culture,' 1881, page + 298.), Mr. Huxley wrote: "Whatever hesitation may, not unfrequently, be + felt by less daring minds, in following Haeckel in many of his + speculations, his attempt to systematise the doctrine of Evolution, and to + exhibit its influence as the central thought of modern biology, cannot + fail to have a far-reaching influence on the progress of science." + </p> + <p> + In the following letter my father alludes to the somewhat fierce manner in + which Professor Haeckel fought the battle of 'Darwinismus,' and on this + subject Dr. Krause has some good remarks (page 162). He asks whether much + that happened in the heat of the conflict might not well have been + otherwise, and adds that Haeckel himself is the last man to deny this. + Nevertheless he thinks that even these things may have worked well for the + cause of Evolution, inasmuch as Haeckel "concentrated on himself by his + 'Ursprung des Menschen-Geschlechts,' his 'Generelle Morphologie,' and + 'Schopfungs-Geschichte,' all the hatred and bitterness which Evolution + excited in certain quarters," so that, "in a surprisingly short time it + became the fashion in Germany that Haeckel alone should be abused, while + Darwin was held up as the ideal of forethought and moderation."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E. HAECKEL. Down, May 21, 1867. + </p> + <p> + Dear Haeckel, + </p> + <p> + Your letter of the 18th has given me great pleasure, for you have received + what I said in the most kind and cordial manner. You have in part taken + what I said much stronger than I had intended. It never occurred to me for + a moment to doubt that your work, with the whole subject so admirably and + clearly arranged, as well as fortified by so many new facts and arguments, + would not advance our common object in the highest degree. All that I + think is that you will excite anger, and that anger so completely blinds + every one, that your arguments would have no chance of influencing those + who are already opposed to our views. Moreover, I do not at all like that + you, towards whom I feel so much friendship, should unnecessarily make + enemies, and there is pain and vexation enough in the world without more + being caused. But I repeat that I can feel no doubt that your work will + greatly advance our subject, and I heartily wish it could be translated + into English, for my own sake and that of others. With respect to what you + say about my advancing too strongly objections against my own views, some + of my English friends think that I have erred on this side; but truth + compelled me to write what I did, and I am inclined to think it was good + policy. The belief in the descent theory is slowly spreading in England + (In October 1867 he wrote to Mr. Wallace:—"Mr. Warrington has lately + read an excellent and spirited abstract of the 'Origin' before the + Victoria Institute, and as this is a most orthodox body, he has gained the + name of the Devil's Advocate. The discussion which followed during three + consecutive meetings is very rich from the nonsense talked. If you would + care to see the number I could send it you."), even amongst those who can + give no reason for their belief. No body of men were at first so much + opposed to my views as the members of the London Entomological Society, + but now I am assured that, with the exception of two or three old men, all + the members concur with me to a certain extent. It has been a great + disappointment to me that I have never received your long letter written + to me from the Canary Islands. I am rejoiced to hear that your tour, which + seems to have been a most interesting one, has done your health much good. + I am working away at my new book, but make very slow progress, and the + work tries my health, which is much the same as when you were here. + </p> + <p> + Victor Carus is going to translate it, but whether it is worth + translation, I am rather doubtful. I am very glad to hear that there is + some chance of your visiting England this autumn, and all in this house + will be delighted to see you here. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Haeckel, Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, July 31 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received a week ago your letter of June 2, full as usual of valuable + matter and specimens. It arrived at exactly the right time, for I was + enabled to give a pretty full abstract of your observations on the plant's + own pollen being poisonous. I have inserted this abstract in the + proo-sheets in my chapter on sterility, and it forms the most striking + part of my whole chapter. (In 'The Variation of Animals and Plants.') I + thank you very sincerely for the most interesting observations, which, + however, I regret that you did not publish independently. I have been + forced to abbreviate one or two parts more than I wished... Your letters + always surprise me, from the number of points to which you attend. I wish + I could make my letters of any interest to you, for I hardly ever see a + naturalist, and live as retired a life as you in Brazil. With respect to + mimetic plants, I remember Hooker many years ago saying he believed that + there were many, but I agree with you that it would be most difficult to + distinguish between mimetic resemblance and the effects of peculiar + conditions. Who can say to which of these causes to attribute the several + plants with heath-like foliage at the Cape of Good Hope? Is it not also a + difficulty that quadrupeds appear to recognise plants more by their + [scent] than their appearance? What I have just said reminds me to ask you + a question. Sir J. Lubbock brought me the other day what appears to be a + terrestrial Planaria (the first ever found in the northern hemisphere) and + which was coloured exactly like our dark-coloured slugs. Now slugs are not + devoured by birds, like the shell-bearing species, and this made me + remember that I found the Brazilian Planariae actually together with + striped Vaginuli which I believe were similarly coloured. Can you throw + any light on this? I wish to know, because I was puzzled some months ago + how it would be possible to account for the bright colours of the + Planariae in reference to sexual selection. By the way, I suppose they are + hermaphrodites. + </p> + <p> + Do not forget to aid me, if in your power, with answers to ANY of my + questions on expression, for the subject interests me greatly. With + cordial thanks for your never-failing kindness, believe me, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, July 18 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for your long letter. I am sorry to hear that you are in + despair about your book (The 2nd volume of the 10th Edition of the + 'Principles.'); I well know that feeling, but am now getting out of the + lower depths. I shall be very much pleased, if you can make the least use + of my present book, and do not care at all whether it is published before + yours. Mine will appear towards the end of November of this year; you + speak of yours as not coming out till November, 1868, which I hope may be + an error. There is nothing about Man in my book which can interfere with + you, so I will order all the completed clean sheets to be sent (and others + as soon as ready) to you, but please observe you will not care for the + first volume, which is a mere record of the amount of variation; but I + hope the second will be somewhat more interesting. Though I fear the whole + must be dull. + </p> + <p> + I rejoice from my heart that you are going to speak out plainly about + species. My book about Man, if published, will be short, and a large + portion will be devoted to sexual selection, to which subject I alluded in + the 'Origin' as bearing on Man... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, August 22 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I thank you cordially for your last two letters. The former one did me + REAL good, for I had got so wearied with the subject that I could hardly + bear to correct the proofs (The proofs of 'Animals and Plants,' which + Lyell was then reading.), and you gave me fresh heart. I remember thinking + that when you came to the Pigeon chapter you would pass it over as quite + unreadable. Your last letter has interested me in very many ways, and I + have been glad to hear about those horrid unbelieving Frenchmen. I have + been particularly pleased that you have noticed Pangenesis. I do not know + whether you ever had the feeling of having thought so much over a subject + that you had lost all power of judging it. This is my case with Pangenesis + (which is 26 or 27 years old), but I am inclined to think that if it be + admitted as a probable hypothesis it will be a somewhat important step in + Biology. + </p> + <p> + I cannot help still regretting that you have ever looked at the slips, for + I hope to improve the whole a good deal. It is surprising to me, and + delightful, that you should care in the least about the plants. Altogether + you have given me one of the best cordials I ever had in my life, and I + heartily thank you. I despatched this morning the French edition. (Of the + 'Origin.' It appears that my father was sending a copy of the French + edition to Sir Charles. The introduction was by Mdlle. Royer, who + translated the book.) The introduction was a complete surprise to me, and + I dare say has injured the book in France; nevertheless... it shows, I + think, that the woman is uncommonly clever. Once again many thanks for the + renewed courage with which I shall attack the horrid proof-sheets. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—A Russian who is translating my new book into Russian has been + here, and says you are immensely read in Russia, and many editions—how + many I forget. Six editions of Buckle and four editions of the 'Origin.' + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, October 16 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I send by this post clean sheets of Volume I. up to page 336, and there + are only 411 pages in this volume. I am VERY glad to hear that you are + going to review my book; but if the "Nation" (The book was reviewed by Dr. + Gray in the "Nation", March 19, 1868.) is a newspaper I wish it were at + the bottom of the sea, for I fear that you will thus be stopped reviewing + me in a scientific journal. The first volume is all details, and you will + not be able to read it; and you must remember that the chapters on plants + are written for naturalists who are not botanists. The last chapter in + Volume I. is, however, I think, a curious compilation of facts; it is on + bu-variation. In Volume II. some of the chapters are more interesting; and + I shall be very curious to hear your verdict on the chapter on close + inte-breeding. The chapter on what I call Pangenesis will be called a mad + dream, and I shall be pretty well satisfied if you think it a dream worth + publishing; but at the bottom of my own mind I think it contains a great + truth. I finish my book with a semi-theological paragraph, in which I + quote and differ from you; what you will think of it, I know not... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, November 17 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Congratulate me, for I have finished the last revise of the last sheet of + my book. It has been an awful job: seven and a half months correcting the + press: the book, from much small type, does not look big, but is really + very big. I have had hard work to keep up to the mark, but during the last + week only few revises came, so that I have rested and feel more myself. + Hence, after our long mutual silence, I enjoy myself by writing a note to + you, for the sake of exhaling, and hearing from you. On account of the + index (The index was made by Mr. W.S. Dallas; I have often heard my father + express his admiration of this excellent piece of work.), I do not suppose + that you will receive your copy till the middle of next month. I shall be + intensely anxious to hear what you think about Pangenesis; though I can + see how fearfully imperfect, even in mere conjectural conclusions, it is; + yet it has been an infinite satisfaction to me somehow to connect the + various large groups of facts, which I have long considered, by an + intelligible thread. I shall not be at all surprised if you attack it and + me with unparalleled ferocity. It will be my endeavour to do as little as + possible for some time, but [I] shall soon prepare a paper or two for the + Linnean Society. In a short time we shall go to London for ten days, but + the time is not yet fixed. Now I have told you a deal about myself, and do + let me hear a good deal about your own past and future doings. Can you pay + us a visit, early in December?... I have seen no one for an age, and heard + no news. + </p> + <p> + ... About my book I will give you a bit of advice. Skip the WHOLE of + Volume I., except the last chapter (and that need only be skimmed) and + skip largely in the 2nd volume; and then you will say it is a very good + book. + </p> + <p> + 1868. + </p> + <p> + ['The Variation of Animals and Plants' was, as already mentioned, + published on January 30, 1868, and on that day he sent a copy to Fritz + Muller, and wrote to him:— + </p> + <p> + "I send by this post, by French packet, my new book, the publication of + which has been much delayed. The greater part, as you will see, is not + meant to be read; but I should very much like to hear what you think of + 'Pangenesis,' though I fear it will appear to EVERY ONE far too + speculative."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. February 3 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am very much pleased at what you say about my Introduction; after it + was in type I was as near as possible cancelling the whole. I have been + for some time in despair about my book, and if I try to read a few pages I + feel fairly nauseated, but do not let this make you praise it; for I have + made up my mind that it is not worth a fifth part of the enormous labour + it has cost me. I assure you that all that is worth your doing (if you + have time for so much) is glancing at Chapter VI., and reading parts of + the later chapters. The facts on self-impotent plants seem to me curious, + and I have worked out to my own satisfaction the good from crossing and + evil from interbreeding. I did read Pangenesis the other evening, but even + this, my beloved child, as I had fancied, quite disgusted me. The devil + take the whole book; and yet now I am at work again as hard as I am able. + It is really a great evil that from habit I have pleasure in hardly + anything except Natural History, for nothing else makes me forget my + eve-recurrent uncomfortable sensations. But I must not howl any more, and + the critics may say what they like; I did my best, and man can do no more. + What a splendid pursuit Natural History would be if it was all observing + and no writing!... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 10 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + What is the good of having a friend, if one may not boast to him? I heard + yesterday that Murray has sold in a week the whole edition of 1500 copies + of my book, and the sale so pressing that he has agreed with Clowes to get + another edition in fourteen days! This has done me a world of good, for I + had got into a sort of dogged hatred of my book. And now there has + appeared a review in the "Pall Mall" which has pleased me excessively, + more perhaps than is reasonable. I am quite content, and do not care how + much I may be pitched into. If by any chance you should hear who wrote the + article in the "Pall Mall", do please tell me; it is some one who writes + capitally, and who knows the subject. I went to luncheon on Sunday, to + Lubbock's, partly in hopes of seeing you, and, be hanged to you, you were + not there. + </p> + <p> + Your cock-a-hoop friend, C.D. + </p> + <p> + [Independently of the favourable tone of the able series of notices in the + "Pall Mall Gazette" (February 10, 15, 17, 1868), my father may well have + been gratified by the following passages:— + </p> + <p> + "We must call attention to the rare and noble calmness with which he + expounds his own views, undisturbed by the heats of polemical agitation + which those views have excited, and persistently refusing to retort on his + antagonists by ridicule, by indignation, or by contempt. Considering the + amount of vituperation and insinuation which has come from the other side, + this forbearance is supremely dignified." + </p> + <p> + And again in the third notice, February 17:— + </p> + <p> + "Nowhere has the author a word that could wound the most sensitive + sel-love of an antagonist; nowhere does he, in text or note, expose the + fallacies and mistakes of brother investigators... but while abstaining + from impertinent censure, he is lavish in acknowledging the smallest debts + he may owe; and his book will make many men happy." + </p> + <p> + I am indebted to Messrs. Smith & Elder for the information that these + articles were written by Mr. G.H. Lewes.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 23 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have had almost as many letters to write of late as you can have, viz. + from 8 to 10 per diem, chiefly getting up facts on sexual selection, + therefore I have felt no inclination to write to you, and now I mean to + write solely about my book for my own satisfaction, and not at all for + yours. The first edition was 1500 copies, and now the second is printed + off; sharp work. Did you look at the review in the "Athenaeum" + ("Athenaeum", February 15, 1868. My father quoted Pouchet's assertion that + "variation under domestication throws no light on the natural modification + of species." The reviewer quotes the end of a passage in which my father + declares that he can see no force in Pouchet's arguments, or rather + assertions, and then goes on: "We are sadly mistaken if there are not + clear proofs in the pages of the book before us that, on the contrary, Mr. + Darwin has perceived, felt, and yielded to the force of the arguments or + assertions of his French antagonist." The following may serve as samples + of the rest of the review:— + </p> + <p> + "Henceforth the rhetoricians will have a better illustration of + anti-climax than the mountain which brought forth a mouse,... in the + discoverer of the origin of species, who tried to explain the variation of + pigeons! + </p> + <p> + "A few summary words. On the 'Origin of Species' Mr. Darwin has nothing, + and is never likely to have anything, to say; but on the vastly important + subject of inheritance, the transmission of peculiarities once acquired + through successive generations, this work is a valuable store-house of + facts for curious students and practical breeders."), showing profound + contempt of me?... It is a shame that he should have said that I have + taken much from Pouchet, without acknowledgment; for I took literally + nothing, there being nothing to take. There is a capital review in the + "Gardeners' Chronicle" which will sell the book if anything will. I don't + quite see whether I or the writer is in a muddle about man CAUSING + variability. If a man drops a bit of iron into sulphuric acid he does not + cause the affinities to come into play, yet he may be said to make + sulphate of iron. I do not know how to avoid ambiguity. + </p> + <p> + After what the "Pall Mall Gazette" and the "Chronicle" have said I do not + care a d—. + </p> + <p> + I fear Pangenesis is stillborn; Bates says he has read it twice, and is + not sure that he understands it. H. Spencer says the view is quite + different from his (and this is a great relief to me, as I feared to be + accused of plagiarism, but utterly failed to be sure what he meant, so + thought it safest to give my view as almost the same as his), and he says + he is not sure he understands it... Am I not a poor devil? yet I took such + pains, I must think that I expressed myself clearly. Old Sir H. Holland + says he has read it twice, and thinks it very tough; but believes that + sooner or later "some view akin to it" will be accepted. + </p> + <p> + You will think me very self-sufficient, when I declare that I feel SURE if + Pangenesis is now stillborn it will, thank God, at some future time + reappear, begotten by some other father, and christened by some other + name. + </p> + <p> + Have you ever met with any tangible and clear view of what takes place in + generation, whether by seeds or buds, or how a long-lost character can + possibly reappear; or how the male element can possibly affect the mother + plant, or the mother animal, so that her future progeny are affected? Now + all these points and many others are connected together, whether truly or + falsely is another question, by Pangenesis. You see I die hard, and stick + up for my poor child. + </p> + <p> + This letter is written for my own satisfaction, and not for yours. So bear + it. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. NEWTON. (Prof. of Zoology at Cambridge.) + Down, February 9 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Newton, + </p> + <p> + I suppose it would be universally held extremely wrong for a defendant to + write to a Judge to express his satisfaction at a judgment in his favour; + and yet I am going thus to act. I have just read what you have said in the + 'Record' ('Zoological Record.' The volume for 1868, published December + 1869.) about my pigeon chapters, and it has gratified me beyond measure. I + have sometimes felt a little disappointed that the labour of so many years + seemed to be almost thrown away, for you are the first man capable of + forming a judgment (excepting partly Quatrefages), who seems to have + thought anything of this part of my work. The amount of labour, + correspondence, and care, which the subject cost me, is more than you + could well suppose. I thought the article in the "Athenaeum" was very + unjust; but now I feel amply repaid, and I cordially thank you for your + sympathy and too warm praise. What labour you have bestowed on your part + of the 'Record'! I ought to be ashamed to speak of my amount of work. I + thoroughly enjoyed the Sunday, which you and the others spent here, and + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Newton, yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, February 27 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + You cannot well imagine how much I have been pleased by what you say about + 'Pangenesis.' None of my friends will speak out... Hooker, as far as I + understand him, which I hardly do at present, seems to think that the + hypothesis is little more than saying that organisms have such and such + potentialities. What you say exactly and fully expresses my feeling, viz. + that it is a relief to have some feasible explanation of the various + facts, which can be given up as soon as any better hypothesis is found. It + has certainly been an immense relief to my mind; for I have been stumbling + over the subject for years, dimly seeing that some relation existed + between the various classes of facts. I now hear from H. Spencer that his + views quoted in my foot-note refer to something quite distinct, as you + seem to have perceived. + </p> + <p> + I shall be very glad to hear at some future day your criticisms on the + "causes of variability." Indeed I feel sure that I am right about + sterility and natural selection... I do not quite understand your case, + and we think that a word or two is misplaced. I wish sometime you would + consider the case under the following point of view:—If sterility is + caused or accumulated through natural selection, than as every degree + exists up to absolute barrenness, natural selection must have the power of + increasing it. Now take two species, A and B, and assume that they are (by + any means) half-sterile, i.e. produce half the full number of offspring. + Now try and make (by natural selection) A and B absolutely sterile when + crossed, and you will find how difficult it is. I grant indeed, it is + certain, that the degree of sterility of the individuals A and B will + vary, but any such extra-sterile individuals of, we will say A, if they + should hereafter breed with other individuals of A, will bequeath no + advantage to their progeny, by which these families will tend to increase + in number over other families of A, which are not more sterile when + crossed with B. But I do not know that I have made this any clearer than + in the chapter in my book. It is a most difficult bit of reasoning, which + I have gone over and over again on paper with diagrams. + </p> + <p> + ... Hearty thanks for your letter. You have indeed pleased me, for I had + given up the great god Pan as a stillborn deity. I wish you could be + induced to make it clear with your admirable powers of elucidation in one + of the scientific journals... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 28 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have been deeply interested by your letter, and we had a good laugh over + Huxley's remark, which was so deuced clever that you could not recollect + it. I cannot quite follow your train of thought, for in the last page you + admit all that I wish, having apparently denied all, or thought all mere + words in the previous pages of your note; but it may be my muddle. I see + clearly that any satisfaction which Pan may give will depend on the + constitution of each man's mind. If you have arrived already at any + similar conclusion, the whole will of course appear stale to you. I heard + yesterday from Wallace, who says (excuse horrid vanity), "I can hardly + tell you how much I admire the chapter on 'Pangenesis.' It is a POSITIVE + COMFORT to me to have any feasible explanation of a difficulty that has + always been haunting me, and I shall never be able to give it up till a + better one supplies its place, and that I think hardly possible, etc." Now + his foregoing [italicised] words express my sentiments exactly and fully: + though perhaps I feel the relief extra strongly from having during many + years vainly attempted to form some hypothesis. When you or Huxley say + that a single cell of a plant, or the stump of an amputated limb, have the + "potentiality" of reproducing the whole—or "diffuse an influence," + these words give me no positive idea;—but when it is said that the + cells of a plant, or stump, include atoms derived from every other cell of + the whole organism and capable of development, I gain a distinct idea. But + this idea would not be worth a rush, if it applied to one case alone; but + it seems to me to apply to all the forms of reproduction—inheritance—metamorphosis—to + the abnormal transposition of organs—to the direct action of the + male element on the mother plant, etc. Therefore I fully believe that each + cell does ACTUALLY throw off an atom or gemmule of its contents;—but + whether or not, this hypothesis serves as a useful connecting link for + various grand classes of physiological facts, which at present stand + absolutely isolated. + </p> + <p> + I have touched on the doubtful point (alluded to by Huxley) how far atoms + derived from the same cell may become developed into different structure + accordingly as they are differently nourished; I advanced as illustrations + galls and polypoid excrescences... + </p> + <p> + It is a real pleasure to me to write to you on this subject, and I should + be delighted if we can understand each other; but you must not let your + good nature lead you on. Remember, we always fight tooth and nail. We go + to London on Tuesday, first for a week to Queen Anne Street, and + afterwards to Miss Wedgwood's, in Regent's Park, and stay the whole month, + which, as my gardener truly says, is a "terrible thing" for my + experiments. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. OGLE. (Dr. William Ogle, now the + Superintendent of Statistics to the Registrar-General.) Down, March 6 + [1868]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you most sincerely for your letter, which is very interesting to + me. I wish I had known of these views of Hippocrates before I had + published, for they seem almost identical with mine—merely a change + of terms—and an application of them to classes of facts necessarily + unknown to the old philosopher. The whole case is a good illustration of + how rarely anything is new. + </p> + <p> + Hippocrates has taken the wind out of my sails, but I care very little + about being forestalled. I advance the views merely as a provisional + hypothesis, but with the secret expectation that sooner or later some such + view will have to be admitted. + </p> + <p> + ... I do not expect the reviewers will be so learned as you: otherwise, no + doubt, I shall be accused of wilfully stealing Pangenesis from + Hippocrates,—for this is the spirit some reviewers delight to show. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO VICTOR CARUS. Down, March 21 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am very much obliged to you for sending me so frankly your opinion + on Pangenesis, and I am sorry it is unfavourable, but I cannot quite + understand your remark on pangenesis, selection, and the struggle for life + not being more methodical. I am not at all surprised at your unfavourable + verdict; I know many, probably most, will come to the same conclusion. One + English Review says it is much too complicated... Some of my friends are + enthusiastic on the hypothesis... Sir C. Lyell says to every one, "you may + not believe in 'Pangenesis,' but if you once understand it, you will never + get it out of your mind." And with this criticism I am perfectly content. + All cases of inheritance and reversion and development now appear to me + under a new light... + </p> + <p> + [An extract from a letter to Fritz Muller, though of later date (June), + may be given here:— + </p> + <p> + "Your letter of April 22 has much interested me. I am delighted that you + approve of my book, for I value your opinion more than that of almost any + one. I have yet hopes that you will think well of Pangenesis. I feel sure + that our minds are somewhat alike, and I find it a great relief to have + some definite, though hypothetical view, when I reflect on the wonderful + transformations of animals,—the re-growth of parts,—and + especially the direct action of pollen on the mother-form, etc. It often + appears to me almost certain that the characters of the parents are + "photographed" on the child, only by means of material atoms derived from + each cell in both parents, and developed in the child."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, May 8 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have been a most ungrateful and ungracious man not to have written to + you an immense time ago to thank you heartily for the "Nation", and for + all your most kind aid in regard to the American edition [of 'Animals and + Plants']. But I have been of late overwhelmed with letters, which I was + forced to answer, and so put off writing to you. This morning I received + the American edition (which looks capital), with your nice preface, for + which hearty thanks. I hope to heaven that the book will succeed well + enough to prevent you repenting of your aid. This arrival has put the + finishing stroke to my conscience, which will endure its wrongs no longer. + </p> + <p> + ... Your article in the "Nation" [March 19] seems to me very good, and you + give an excellent idea of Pangenesis—an infant cherished by few as + yet, except his tender parent, but which will live a long life. There is + parental presumption for you! You give a good slap at my concluding + metaphor (A short abstract of the precipice metaphor is given in Volume I. + Dr. Gray's criticism on this point is as follows: "But in Mr. Darwin's + parallel, to meet the case of nature according to his own view of it, not + only the fragments of rock (answering to variation) should fall, but the + edifice (answering to natural selection) should rise, irrespective of will + or choice!" But my father's parallel demands that natural selection shall + be the architect, not the edifice—the question of design only comes + in with regard to the form of the building materials.): undoubtedly I + ought to have brought in and contrasted natural and artificial selection; + but it seems so obvious to me that natural selection depended on + contingencies even more complex than those which must have determined the + shape of each fragment at the base of my precipice. What I wanted to show + was that in reference to pre-ordainment whatever holds good in the + formation of a pouter pigeon holds good in the formation of a natural + species of pigeon. I cannot see that this is false. If the right + variations occurred, and no others, natural selection would be + superfluous. A reviewer in an Edinburgh paper, who treats me with profound + contempt, says on this subject that Professor Asa Gray could with the + greatest ease smash me into little pieces. (The "Daily Review", April 27, + 1868. My father has given rather a highly coloured version of the + reviewer's remarks: "We doubt not that Professor Asa Gray... could show + that natural selection... is simply an instrument in the hands of an + omnipotent and omniscient creator." The reviewer goes on to say that the + passage in question is a "very melancholy one," and that the theory is the + "apotheosis of materialism.") + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Gray, Your ungrateful but sincere friend, CHARLES + DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G. BENTHAM. Down, June 23, 1868. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Bentham, + </p> + <p> + As your address (Presidential Address to the Linnean Society.) is somewhat + of the nature of a verdict from a judge, I do not know whether it is + proper for me to do so, but I must and will thank you for the pleasure + which you have given me. I am delighted at what you say about my book. I + got so tired of it, that for months together I thought myself a perfect + fool for having given up so much time in collecting and observing little + facts, but now I do not care if a score of common critics speak as + contemptuously of the book as did the "Athenaeum". I feel justified in + this, for I have so complete a reliance on your judgment that I feel + certain that I should have bowed to your judgment had it been as + unfavourable as it is the contrary. What you say about Pangenesis quite + satisfies me, and is as much perhaps as any one is justified in saying. I + have read your whole Address with the greatest interest. It must have cost + you a vast amount of trouble. With cordial thanks, pray believe me, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I fear that it is not likely that you have a superfluous copy + of your Address; if you have, I should much like to send one to Fritz + Muller in the interior of Brazil. By the way let me add that I discussed + bud-variation chiefly from a belief which is common to several persons, + that all variability is related to sexual generation; I wished to show + clearly that this was an error. + </p> + <p> + [The above series of letters may serve to show to some extent the + reception which the new book received. Before passing on (in the next + chapter) to the 'Descent of Man,' I give a letter referring to the + translation of Fritz Muller's book, 'Fur Darwin,' it was originally + published in 1864, but the English translation, by Mr. Dallas, which bore + the title suggested by Sir C. Lyell, of 'Facts and Arguments for Darwin,' + did not appear until 1869:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, March 16 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your brother, as you will have heard from him, felt so convinced that you + would not object to a translation of 'Fur Darwin' (In a letter to Fritz + Muller, my father wrote:—"I am vexed to see that on the title my + name is more conspicuous than yours, which I especially objected to, and I + cautioned the printers after seeing one proof."), that I have ventured to + arrange for a translation. Engelmann has very liberally offered me cliches + of the woodcuts for 22 thalers; Mr. Murray has agreed to bring out a + translation (and he is our best publisher) on commission, for he would not + undertake the work on his own risk; and I have agreed with Mr. W.S. Dallas + (who has translated Von Siebold on Parthenogenesis, and many German works, + and who writes very good English) to translate the book. He thinks (and he + is a good judge) that it is important to have some few corrections or + additions, in order to account for a translation appearing so lately [i.e. + at such a long interval of time] after the original; so that I hope you + will be able to send some... + </p> + <p> + [Two letters may be placed here as bearing on the spread of Evolutionary + ideas in France and Germany:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. GAUDRY. Down, January 21 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your interesting essay on the influence of the Geological + features of the country on the mind and habits of the Ancient Athenians + (This appears to refer to M. Gaudry's paper translated in the 'Geol. + Mag.,' 1868, page 372.), and for your very obliging letter. I am delighted + to hear that you intend to consider the relations of fossil animals in + connection with their genealogy; it will afford you a fine field for the + exercise of your extensive knowledge and powers of reasoning. Your belief + will I suppose, at present, lower you in the estimation of your + countrymen; but judging from the rapid spread in all parts of Europe, + excepting France, of the belief in the common descent of allied species, I + must think that this belief will before long become universal. How strange + it is that the country which gave birth to Buffon, the elder Geoffroy, and + especially to Lamarck, should now cling so pertinaciously to the belief + that species are immutable creations. + </p> + <p> + My work on Variation, etc., under domestication, will appear in a French + translation in a few months' time, and I will do myself the pleasure and + honour of directing the publisher to send a copy to you to the same + address as this letter. + </p> + <p> + With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir, Yours very faithfully, CHARLES + DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter is of especial interest, as showing how high a value my + father placed on the support of the younger German naturalists:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. PREYER. (Now Professor of Physiology at + Jena.) March 31, 1868. + </p> + <p> + ... I am delighted to hear that you uphold the doctrine of the + Modification of Species, and defend my views. The support which I receive + from Germany is my chief ground for hoping that our views will ultimately + prevail. To the present day I am continually abused or treated with + contempt by writers of my own country; but the younger naturalists are + almost all on my side, and sooner or later the public must follow those + who make the subject their special study. The abuse and contempt of + ignorant writers hurts me very little... + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.VI. — WORK ON 'MAN.' + </h2> + <h3> + 1864-1870. + </h3> + <p> + [In the autobiographical chapter in Volume I., my father gives the + circumstances which led to his writing the 'Descent of Man.' He states + that his collection of facts, begun in 1837 or 1838, was continued for + many years without any definite idea of publishing on the subject. The + following letter to Mr. Wallace shows that in the period of ill-health and + depression about 1864 he despaired of ever being able to do so:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, [May?] 28 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I am so much better that I have just finished a paper for Linnean Society + (On the three forms, etc., of Lythrum.); but I am not yet at all strong, I + felt much disinclination to write, and therefore you must forgive me for + not having sooner thanked you for your paper on 'Man' ('Anthropological + Review,' March 1864.), received on the 11th. But first let me say that I + have hardly ever in my life been more struck by any paper than that on + 'Variation,' etc. etc., in the "Reader". ('"Reader", April 16, 1864. "On + the Phenomena of Variation," etc. Abstract of a paper read before the + Linnean Society, March 17, 1864.) I feel sure that such papers will do + more for the spreading of our views on the modification of species than + any separate Treatises on the simple subject itself. It is really + admirable; but you ought not in the Man paper to speak of the theory as + mine; it is just as much yours as mine. One correspondent has already + noticed to me your "high-minded" conduct on this head. But now for your + Man paper, about which I should like to write more than I can. The great + leading idea is quite new to me, viz. that during late ages, the mind will + have been modified more than the body; yet I had got as far as to see with + you that the struggle between the races of man depended entirely on + intellectual and MORAL qualities. The latter part of the paper I can + designate only as grand and most eloquently done. I have shown your paper + to two or three persons who have been here, and they have been equally + struck with it. I am not sure that I go with you on all minor points: when + reading Sir G. Grey's account of the constant battles of Australian + savages, I remember thinking that natural selection would come in, and + likewise with the Esquimaux, with whom the art of fishing and managing + canoes is said to be hereditary. I rather differ on the rank, under a + classificatory point of view, which you assign to man; I do not think any + character simply in excess ought ever to be used for the higher divisions. + Ants would not be separated from other hymenopterous insects, however high + the instinct of the one, and however low the instincts of the other. With + respect to the differences of race, a conjecture has occurred to me that + much may be due to the correlation of complexion (and consequently hair) + with constitution. Assume that a dusky individual best escaped miasma, and + you will readily see what I mean. I persuaded the Director-General of the + Medical Department of the Army to send printed forms to the surgeons of + all regiments in tropical countries to ascertain this point, but I dare + say I shall never get any returns. Secondly, I suspect that a sort of + sexual selection has been the most powerful means of changing the races of + man. I can show that the different races have a widely different standard + of beauty. Among savages the most powerful men will have the pick of the + women, and they will generally leave the most descendants. I have + collected a few notes on man, but I do not suppose that I shall ever use + them. Do you intend to follow out your views, and if so, would you like at + some future time to have my few references and notes? I am sure I hardly + know whether they are of any value, and they are at present in a state of + chaos. + </p> + <p> + There is much more that I should like to write, but I have not strength. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, dear Wallace, yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Our aristocracy is handsomer (more hideous according to a + Chinese or Negro) than the middle classes, from (having the) pick of the + women; but oh, what a scheme is primogeniture for destroying natural + selection! I fear my letter will be barely intelligible to you. + </p> + <p> + [In February 1867, when the manuscript of 'Animals and Plants' had been + sent to Messrs. Clowes to be printed, and before the proofs began to come + in, he had an interval of spare time, and began a "chapter on Man," but he + soon found it growing under his hands, and determined to publish it + separately as a "very small volume." + </p> + <p> + The work was interrupted by the necessity of correcting the proofs of + 'Animals and Plants,' and by some botanical work, but was resumed in the + following year, 1868, the moment he could give himself up to it. + </p> + <p> + He recognized with regret the gradual change in his mind that rendered + continuous work more and more necessary to him as he grew older. This is + expressed in a letter to Sir J.D. Hooker, June 17, 1868, which repeats to + some extent what is expressed in the Autobiography:— + </p> + <p> + "I am glad you were at the 'Messiah,' it is the one thing that I should + like to hear again, but I dare say I should find my soul too dried up to + appreciate it as in old days; and then I should feel very flat, for it is + a horrid bore to feel as I constantly do, that I am a withered leaf for + every subject except Science. It sometimes makes me hate Science, though + God knows I ought to be thankful for such a perennial interest, which + makes me forget for some hours every day my accursed stomach." + </p> + <p> + The work on Man was interrupted by illness in the early summer of 1868, + and he left home on July 16th for Freshwater, in the Isle of Wight, where + he remained with his family until August 21st. Here he made the + acquaintance of Mrs. Cameron. She received the whole family with + open-hearted kindness and hospitality, and my father always retained a + warm feeling of friendship for her. She made an excellent photograph of + him, which was published with the inscription written by him: "I like this + photograph very much better than any other which has been taken of me." + Further interruption occurred in the autumn so that continuous work on the + 'Descent of Man' did not begin until 1869. The following letters give some + idea of the earlier work in 1867:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, February 22, [1867?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I am hard at work on sexual selection, and am driven half mad by the + number of collateral points which require investigation, such as the + relative number of the two sexes, and especially on polygamy. Can you aid + me with respect to birds which have strongly marked secondary sexual + characters, such as birds of paradise, humming-birds, the Rupicola, or any + other such cases? Many gallinaceous birds certainly are polygamous. I + suppose that birds may be known not to be polygamous if they are seen + during the whole breeding season to associate in pairs, or if the male + incubates or aids in feeding the young. Will you have the kindness to turn + this in your mind? But it is a shame to trouble you now that, as I am + HEARTILY glad to hear, you are at work on your Malayan travels. I am + fearfully puzzled how far to extend your protective views with respect to + the females in various classes. The more I work the more important sexual + selection apparently comes out. + </p> + <p> + Can butterflies be polygamous! i.e. will one male impregnate more than one + female? Forgive me troubling you, and I dare say I shall have to ask + forgiveness again... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, February 23 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I much regretted that I was unable to call on you, but after Monday I was + unable even to leave the house. On Monday evening I called on Bates, and + put a difficulty before him, which he could not answer, and, as on some + former similar occasion, his first suggestion was, "You had better ask + Wallace." My difficulty is, why are caterpillars sometimes so beautifully + and artistically coloured? Seeing that many are coloured to escape danger, + I can hardly attribute their bright colour in other cases to mere physical + conditions. Bates says the most gaudy caterpillar he ever saw in Amazonia + (of a sphinx) was conspicuous at the distance of yards, from its black and + red colours, whilst feeding on large green leaves. If any one objected to + male butterflies having been made beautiful by sexual selection, and asked + why should they not have been made beautiful as well as their + caterpillars, what would you answer? I could not answer, but should + maintain my ground. Will you think over this, and some time, either by + letter or when we meet, tell me what you think? Also I want to know + whether your FEMALE mimetic butterfly is more beautiful and brighter than + the male. When next in London I must get you to show me your kingfishers. + My health is a dreadful evil; I failed in half my engagements during this + last visit to London. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, February 26 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + Bates was quite right; you are the man to apply to in a difficulty. I + never heard anything more ingenious than your suggestion (The suggestion + that conspicuous caterpillars or perfect insects (e.g. white butterflies), + which are distasteful to birds, are protected by being easily recognised + and avoided. See Mr. Wallace's 'Natural Selection,' 2nd edition, page + 117.), and I hope you may be able to prove it true. That is a splendid + fact about the white moths; it warms one's very blood to see a theory thus + almost proved to be true. (Mr. Jenner Weir's observations published in the + Transactions of the Entomolog. Soc. (1869 and 1870) give strong support to + the theory in question.) With respect to the beauty of male butterflies, I + must as yet think it is due to sexual selection. There is some evidence + that dragon-flies are attracted by bright colours; but what leads me to + the above belief is, so many male Orthoptera and Cicadas having musical + instruments. This being the case, the analogy of birds makes me believe in + sexual selection with respect to colour in insects. I wish I had strength + and time to make some of the experiments suggested by you, but I thought + butterflies would not pair in confinement. I am sure I have heard of some + such difficulty. Many years ago I had a dragon-fly painted with gorgeous + colours, but I never had an opportunity of fairly trying it. + </p> + <p> + The reason of my being so much interested just at present about sexual + selection is, that I have almost resolved to publish a little essay on the + origin of Mankind, and I still strongly think (though I failed to convince + you, and this, to me, is the heaviest blow possible) that sexual selection + has been the main agent in forming the races of man. + </p> + <p> + By the way, there is another subject which I shall introduce in my essay, + namely, expression of countenance. Now, do you happen to know by any odd + chance a very good-natured and acute observer in the Malay Archipelago, + who you think would make a few easy observations for me on the expression + of the Malays when excited by various emotions? For in this case I would + send to such person a list of queries. I thank you for your most + interesting letter, and remain, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, March [1867]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I thank you much for your two notes. The case of Julia Pastrana (A bearded + woman having an irregular double set of teeth. 'Animals and Plants,' + volume ii. page 328.) is a splendid addition to my other cases of + correlated teeth and hair, and I will add it in correcting the press of my + present volume. Pray let me hear in the course of the summer if you get + any evidence about the gaudy caterpillars. I should much like to give (or + quote if published) this idea of yours, if in any way supported, as + suggested by you. It will, however, be a long time hence, for I can see + that sexual selection is growing into quite a large subject, which I shall + introduce into my essay on Man, supposing that I ever publish it. I had + intended giving a chapter on man, inasmuch as many call him (not QUITE + truly) an eminently domesticated animal, but I found the subject too large + for a chapter. Nor shall I be capable of treating the subject well, and my + sole reason for taking it up is, that I am pretty well convinced that + sexual selection has played an important part in the formation of races, + and sexual selection has always been a subject which has interested me + much. I have been very glad to see your impression from memory on the + expression of Malays. I fully agree with you that the subject is in no way + an important one; it is simply a "hobby-horse" with me, about twenty-seven + years old; and AFTER thinking that I would write an essay on man, it + flashed on me that I could work in some "supplemental remarks on + expression." After the horrid, tedious, dull work of my present huge, and + I fear unreadable, book ['The Variation of Animals and Plants'], I thought + I would amuse myself with my hobby-horse. The subject is, I think, more + curious and more amenable to scientific treatment than you seem willing to + allow. I want, anyhow, to upset Sir C. Bell's view, given in his most + interesting work, 'The Anatomy of Expression,' that certain muscles have + been given to man solely that he may reveal to other men his feelings. I + want to try and show how expressions have arisen. That is a good + suggestion about newspapers, but my experience tells me that private + applications are generally most fruitful. I will, however, see if I can + get the queries inserted in some Indian paper. I do not know the names or + addresses of any other papers. + </p> + <p> + ... My two female amanuenses are busy with friends, and I fear this scrawl + will give you much trouble to read. With many thanks, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter may be worth giving, as an example of his sources of + information, and as showing what were the thoughts at this time occupying + him:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, February 22 [1867]. + </p> + <p> + ... Many thanks for all the curious facts about the unequal number of the + sexes in Crustacea, but the more I investigate this subject the deeper I + sink in doubt and difficulty. Thanks also for the confirmation of the + rivalry of Cicadae. I have often reflected with surprise on the diversity + of the means for producing music with insects, and still more with birds. + We thus get a high idea of the importance of song in the animal kingdom. + Please to tell me where I can find any account of the auditory organs in + the Orthoptera. Your facts are quite new to me. Scudder has described an + insect in the Devonian strata, furnished with a stridulating apparatus. I + believe he is to be trusted, and, if so, the apparatus is of astonishing + antiquity. After reading Landois's paper I have been working at the + stridulating organ in the Lamellicorn beetles, in expectation of finding + it sexual; but I have only found it as yet in two cases, and in these it + was equally developed in both sexes. I wish you would look at any of your + common lamellicorns, and take hold of both males and females, and observe + whether they make the squeaking or grating noise equally. If they do not, + you could, perhaps, send me a male and female in a light little box. How + curious it is that there should be a special organ for an object + apparently so unimportant as squeaking. Here is another point; have you + any toucans? if so, ask any trustworthy hunter whether the beaks of the + males, or of both sexes, are more brightly coloured during the breeding + season than at other times of the year... Heaven knows whether I shall + ever live to make use of half the valuable facts which you have + communicated to me! Your paper on Balanus armatus, translated by Mr. + Dallas, has just appeared in our 'Annals and Magazine of Natural History,' + and I have read it with the greatest interest. I never thought that I + should live to hear of a hybrid Balanus! I am very glad that you have seen + the cement tubes; they appear to me extremely curious, and, as far as I + know, you are the first man who has verified my observations on this + point. + </p> + <p> + With most cordial thanks for all your kindness, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. DE CANDOLLE. Down, July 6, 1868. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I return you my SINCERE thanks for your long letter, which I consider a + great compliment, and which is quite full of most interesting facts and + views. Your references and remarks will be of great use should a new + edition of my book ('Variation of Animals and Plants.') be demanded, but + this is hardly probable, for the whole edition was sold within the first + week, and another large edition immediately reprinted, which I should + think would supply the demand for ever. You ask me when I shall publish on + the 'Variation of Species in a State of Nature.' I have had the MS. for + another volume almost ready during several years, but I was so much + fatigued by my last book that I determined to amuse myself by publishing a + short essay on the 'Descent of Man.' I was partly led to do this by having + been taunted that I concealed my views, but chiefly from the interest + which I had long taken in the subject. Now this essay has branched out + into some collateral subjects, and I suppose will take me more than a year + to complete. I shall then begin on 'Species,' but my health makes me a + very slow workman. I hope that you will excuse these details, which I have + given to show that you will have plenty of time to publish your views + first, which will be a great advantage to me. Of all the curious facts + which you mention in your letter, I think that of the strong inheritance + of the scalp-muscles has interested me most. I presume that you would not + object to my giving this very curious case on your authority. As I believe + all anatomists look at the scalp-muscles as a remnant of the Panniculus + carnosus which is common to all the lower quadrupeds, I should look at the + unusual development and inheritance of these muscles as probably a case of + reversion. Your observation on so many remarkable men in noble families + having been illegitimate is extremely curious; and should I ever meet any + one capable of writing an essay on this subject, I will mention your + remarks as a good suggestion. Dr. Hooker has several times remarked to me + that morals and politics would be very interesting if discussed like any + branch of natural history, and this is nearly to the same effect with your + remarks... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO L. AGASSIZ. Down, August 19, 1868. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you cordially for your very kind letter. I certainly thought that + you had formed so low an opinion of my scientific work that it might have + appeared indelicate in me to have asked for information from you, but it + never occurred to me that my letter would have been shown to you. I have + never for a moment doubted your kindness and generosity, and I hope you + will not think it presumption in me to say, that when we met, many years + ago, at the British Association at Southampton, I felt for you the warmest + admiration. + </p> + <p> + Your information on the Amazonian fishes has interested me EXTREMELY, and + tells me exactly what I wanted to know. I was aware, through notes given + me by Dr. Gunther, that many fishes differed sexually in colour and other + characters, but I was particularly anxious to learn how far this was the + case with those fishes in which the male, differently from what occurs + with most birds, takes the largest share in the care of the ova and young. + Your letter has not only interested me much, but has greatly gratified me + in other respects, and I return you my sincere thanks for your kindness. + Pray believe me, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, Sunday, August 23 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear old Friend, + </p> + <p> + I have received your note. I can hardly say how pleased I have been at the + success of your address (Sir Joseph Hooker was President of the British + Association at the Norwich Meeting in 1868.), and of the whole meeting. I + have seen the "Times", "Telegraph", "Spectator", and "Athenaeum", and have + heard of other favourable newspapers, and have ordered a bundle. There is + a "chorus of praise." The "Times" reported miserably, i.e. as far as + errata was concerned; but I was very glad at the leader, for I thought the + way you brought in the megalithic monuments most happy. (The British + Association was desirous of interesting the Government in certain modern + cromlech builders, the Khasia race of East Bengal, in order that their + megalithic monuments might be efficiently described.) I particularly + admired Tyndall's little speech (Professor Tyndall was President of + Section A.)... The "Spectator" pitches a little into you about Theology, + in accordance with its usual spirit... + </p> + <p> + Your great success has rejoiced my heart. I have just carefully read the + whole address in the "Athenaeum"; and though, as you know, I liked it very + much when you read it to me, yet, as I was trying all the time to find + fault, I missed to a certain extent the effect as a whole; and this now + appears to me most striking and excellent. How you must rejoice at all + your bothering labour and anxiety having had so grand an end. I must say a + word about myself; never has such a eulogium been passed on me, and it + makes me very proud. I cannot get over my AMAZEMENT at what you say about + my botanical work. By Jove, as far as my memory goes, you have + strengthened instead of weakened some of the expressions. What is far more + important than anything personal, is the conviction which I feel that you + will have immensely advanced the belief in the evolution of species. This + will follow from the publicity of the occasion, your position, so + responsible, as President, and your own high reputation. It will make a + great step in public opinion, I feel sure, and I had not thought of this + before. The "Athenaeum" takes your snubbing (Sir Joseph Hooker made some + reference to the review of 'Animals and Plants' in the "Athenaeum" of + February 15, 1868.) with the utmost mildness. I certainly do rejoice over + the snubbing, and hope [the reviewer] will feel it a little. Whenever you + have SPARE time to write again, tell me whether any astronomers (In + discussing the astronomer's objection to Evolution, namely that our globe + has not existed for a long enough period to give time for the assumed + transmutation of living beings, Hooker challenged Whewell's dictum that, + astronomy is the queen of sciences—the only perfect science.) took + your remarks in ill part; as they now stand they do not seem at all too + harsh and presumptuous. Many of your sentences strike me as extremely + felicitous and eloquent. That of Lyell's "under-pinning" (After a eulogium + on Sir Charles Lyell's heroic renunciation of his old views in accepting + Evolution, Sir J.D. Hooker continued, "Well may he be proud of a + superstructure, raised on the foundations of an insecure doctrine, when he + finds that he can underpin it and substitute a new foundation; and after + all is finished, survey his edifice, not only more secure but more + harmonious in its proportion than it was before."), is capital. Tell me, + was Lyell pleased? I am so glad that you remembered my old dedication. + (The 'Naturalist's Voyage' was dedicated to Lyell.) Was Wallace pleased? + </p> + <p> + How about photographs? Can you spare time for a line to our dear Mrs. + Cameron? She came to see us off, and loaded us with presents of + photographs, and Erasmus called after her, "Mrs. Cameron, there are six + people in this house all in love with you." When I paid her, she cried + out, "Oh what a lot of money!" and ran to boast to her husband. + </p> + <p> + I must not write any more, though I am in tremendous spirits at your + brilliant success. + </p> + <p> + Yours ever affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the "Athenaeum" of November 29, 1868, appeared an article which was in + fact a reply to Sir Joseph Hooker's remarks at Norwich. He seems to have + consulted my father as to the wisdom of answering the article. My father + wrote on September 1: + </p> + <p> + "In my opinion Dr. Joseph Dalton Hooker need take no notice of the attack + in the "Athenaeum" in reference to Mr. Charles Darwin. What an ass the man + is to think he cuts one to the quick by giving one's Christian name in + full. How transparently false is the statement that my sole groundwork is + from pigeons, because I state I have worked them out more fully than other + beings! He muddles together two books of Flourens." + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to a paper ('Transactions of the Ottawa + Academy of Natural Sciences,' 1868, by John D. Caton, late Chief Justice + of Illinois.) by Judge Caton, of which my father often spoke with + admiration:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN D. CATON. Down, September 18, 1868. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I beg leave to thank you very sincerely for your kindness in sending me, + through Mr. Walsh, your admirable paper on American Deer. + </p> + <p> + It is quite full of most interesting observations, stated with the + greatest clearness. I have seldom read a paper with more interest, for it + abounds with facts of direct use for my work. Many of them consist of + little points which hardly any one besides yourself has observed, or + perceived the importance of recording. I would instance the age at which + the horns are developed (a point on which I have lately been in vain + searching for information), the rudiment of horns in the female elk, and + especially the different nature of the plants devoured by the deer and + elk, and several other points. With cordial thanks for the pleasure and + instruction which you have afforded me, and with high respect for your + power of observation, I beg leave to remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully and obliged, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following extract from a letter (September 24, 1868) to the Marquis + de Saporta, the eminent palaeo-botanist, refers to the growth of + evolutionary views in France (In 1868 he was pleased at being asked to + authorise a French translation of his 'Naturalist's Voyage.':— + </p> + <p> + "As I have formerly read with great interest many of your papers on fossil + plants, you may believe with what high satisfaction I hear that you are a + believer in the gradual evolution of species. I had supposed that my book + on the 'Origin of Species' had made very little impression in France, and + therefore it delights me to hear a different statement from you. All the + great authorities of the Institute seem firmly resolved to believe in the + immutability of species, and this has always astonished me... almost the + one exception, as far as I know, is M. Gaudry, and I think he will be soon + one of the chief leaders in Zoological Palaeontology in Europe; and now I + am delighted to hear that in the sister department of Botany you take + nearly the same view."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E. HAECKEL. Down, November 19 [1868]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Haeckel, + </p> + <p> + I must write to you again, for two reasons. Firstly, to thank you for your + letter about your baby, which has quite charmed both me and my wife; I + heartily congratulate you on its birth. I remember being surprised in my + own case how soon the paternal instincts became developed, and in you they + seem to be unusually strong,... I hope the large blue eyes and the + principles of inheritance will make your child as good a naturalist as you + are; but, judging from my own experience, you will be astonished to find + how the whole mental disposition of your children changes with advancing + years. A young child, and the same when nearly grown, sometimes differ + almost as much as do a caterpillar and butterfly. + </p> + <p> + The second point is to congratulate you on the projected translation of + your great work ('Generelle Morphologie,' 1866. No English translation of + this book has appeared.), about which I heard from Huxley last Sunday. I + am heartily glad of it, but how it has been brought about, I know not, for + a friend who supported the supposed translation at Norwich, told me he + thought there would be no chance of it. Huxley tells me that you consent + to omit and shorten some parts, and I am confident that this is very wise. + As I know your object is to instruct the public, you will assuredly thus + get many more readers in England. Indeed, I believe that almost every book + would be improved by condensation. I have been reading a good deal of your + last book ('Die Naturliche Schopfungs-Geschichte,' 1868. It was translated + and published in 1876, under the title, 'The History of Creation.'), and + the style is beautifully clear and easy to me; but why it should differ so + much in this respect from your great work I cannot imagine. I have not yet + read the first part, but began with the chapter on Lyell and myself, which + you will easily believe pleased me VERY MUCH. I think Lyell, who was + apparently much pleased by your sending him a copy, is also much gratified + by this chapter. (See Lyell's interesting letter to Haeckel. 'Life of Sir + C. Lyell,' ii. page 435.) Your chapters on the affinities and genealogy of + the animal kingdom strike me as admirable and full of original thought. + Your boldness, however, sometimes makes me tremble, but as Huxley + remarked, some one must be bold enough to make a beginning in drawing up + tables of descent. Although you fully admit the imperfection of the + geological record, yet Huxley agreed with me in thinking that you are + sometimes rather rash in venturing to say at what periods the several + groups first appeared. I have this advantage over you, that I remember how + wonderfully different any statement on this subject made 20 years ago, + would have been to what would now be the case, and I expect the next 20 + years will make quite as great a difference. Reflect on the + monocotyledonous plant just discovered in the PRIMORDIAL formation in + Sweden. + </p> + <p> + I repeat how glad I am at the prospect of the translation, for I fully + believe that this work and all your works will have a great influence in + the advancement of Science. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Haeckel, your sincere friend, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [It was in November of this year that he sat for the bust by Mr. Woolner: + he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "I should have written long ago, but I have been pestered with stupid + letters, and am undergoing the purgatory of sitting for hours to Woolner, + who, however, is wonderfully pleasant, and lightens as much as man can, + the penance; as far as I can judge, it will make a fine bust." + </p> + <p> + If I may criticise the work of so eminent a sculptor as Mr. Woolner, I + should say that the point in which the bust fails somewhat as a portrait, + is that it has a certain air, almost of pomposity, which seems to me + foreign to my father's expression.] + </p> + <p> + 1869. + </p> + <p> + [At the beginning of the year he was at work in preparing the fifth + edition of the 'Origin.' This work was begun on the day after Christmas, + 1868, and was continued for "forty-six days," as he notes in his diary, + i.e. until February 10th, 1869. He then, February 11th, returned to Sexual + Selection, and continued at this subject (excepting for ten days given up + to Orchids, and a week in London), until June 10th, when he went with his + family to North Wales, where he remained about seven weeks, returning to + Down on July 31st. + </p> + <p> + Caerdeon, the house where he stayed, is built on the north shore of the + beautiful Barmouth estuary, and is pleasantly placed, in being close to + wild hill country behind, as well as to the picturesque wooded "hummocks," + between the steeper hills and the river. My father was ill and somewhat + depressed throughout this visit, and I think felt saddened at being + imprisoned by his want of strength, and unable even to reach the hills + over which he had once wandered for days together. + </p> + <p> + He wrote from Caerdeon to Sir J.D. Hooker (June 22nd):— + </p> + <p> + "We have been here for ten days, how I wish it was possible for you to pay + us a visit here; we have a beautiful house with a terraced garden, and a + really magnificent view of Cader, right opposite. Old Cader is a grand + fellow, and shows himself off superbly with every changing light. We + remain here till the end of July, when the H. Wedgwoods have the house. I + have been as yet in a very poor way; it seems as soon as the stimulus of + mental work stops, my whole strength gives way. As yet I have hardly + crawled half a mile from the house, and then have been fearfully fatigued. + It is enough to make one wish oneself quiet in a comfortable tomb." + </p> + <p> + With regard to the fifth edition of the 'Origin,' he wrote to Mr. Wallace + (January 22, 1869):— + </p> + <p> + "I have been interrupted in my regular work in preparing a new edition of + the 'Origin,' which has cost me much labour, and which I hope I have + considerably improved in two or three important points. I always thought + individual differences more important than single variations, but now I + have come to the conclusion that they are of paramount importance, and in + this I believe I agree with you. Fleeming Jenkin's arguments have + convinced me." + </p> + <p> + This somewhat obscure sentence was explained, February 2, in another + letter to Mr. Wallace:— + </p> + <p> + "I must have expressed myself atrociously; I meant to say exactly the + reverse of what you have understood. F. Jenkin argued in the 'North + British Review' against single variations ever being perpetuated, and has + convinced me, though not in quite so broad a manner as here put. I always + thought individual differences more important; but I was blind and thought + that single variations might be preserved much oftener than I now see is + possible or probable. I mentioned this in my former note merely because I + believed that you had come to a similar conclusion, and I like much to be + in accord with you. I believe I was mainly deceived by single variations + offering such simple illustrations, as when man selects." + </p> + <p> + The late Mr. Fleeming Jenkin's review, on the 'Origin of Species,' was + published in the 'North British Review' for June 1867. It is not a little + remarkable that the criticisms, which my father, as I believe, felt to be + the most valuable ever made on his views should have come, not from a + professed naturalist but from a Professor of Engineering. + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to give in a short compass an account of Fleeming + Jenkin's argument. My father's copy of the paper (ripped out of the volume + as usual, and tied with a bit of string) is annotated in pencil in many + places. I may quote one passage opposite which my father has written "good + sneers"—but it should be remembered that he used the word "sneer" in + rather a special sense, not as necessarily implying a feeling of + bitterness in the critic, but rather in the sense of "banter." Speaking of + the 'true believer,' Fleeming Jenkin says, page 293:— + </p> + <p> + "He can invent trains of ancestors of whose existence there is no + evidence; he can marshal hosts of equally imaginary foes; he can call up + continents, floods, and peculiar atmospheres; he can dry up oceans, split + islands, and parcel out eternity at will; surely with these advantages he + must be a dull fellow if he cannot scheme some series of animals and + circumstances explaining our assumed difficulty quite naturally. Feeling + the difficulty of dealing with adversaries who command so huge a domain of + fancy, we will abandon these arguments, and trust to those which at least + cannot be assailed by mere efforts of imagination." + </p> + <p> + In the fifth edition of the 'Origin,' my father altered a passage in the + Historical Sketch (fourth edition page xviii.). He thus practically gave + up the difficult task of understanding whether or no Sir R. Owen claims to + have discovered the principle of Natural Selection. Adding, "As far as the + mere enunciation of the principle of Natural Selection is concerned, it is + quite immaterial whether or not Professor Owen preceded me, for both of + us... were long ago preceded by Dr. Wells and Mr. Matthew." + </p> + <p> + A somewhat severe critique on the fifth edition, by Mr. John Robertson, + appeared in the "Athenaeum", August 14, 1869. The writer comments with + some little bitterness on the success of the 'Origin:' "Attention is not + acceptance. Many editions do not mean real success. The book has sold; the + guess has been talked over; and the circulation and discussion sum up the + significance of the editions." Mr. Robertson makes the true, but + misleading statement: "Mr. Darwin prefaces his fifth English edition with + an Essay, which he calls 'An Historical Sketch,' etc." As a matter of fact + the Sketch appeared in the third edition in 1861. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Robertson goes on to say that the Sketch ought to be called a + collection of extracts anticipatory or corroborative of the hypothesis of + Natural Selection. "For no account is given of any hostile opinions. The + fact is very significant. This historical sketch thus resembles the + histories of the reign of Louis XVIII., published after the Restoration, + from which the Republic and the Empire, Robespierre and Buonaparte were + omitted." + </p> + <p> + The following letter to Prof. Victor Carus gives an idea of the character + of the new edition of the 'Origin:'] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO VICTOR CARUS. Down, May 4, 1869. + </p> + <p> + ... I have gone very carefully through the whole, trying to make some + parts clearer, and adding a few discussions and facts of some importance. + The new edition is only two pages at the end longer than the old; though + in one part nine pages in advance, for I have condensed several parts and + omitted some passages. The translation I fear will cause you a great deal + of trouble; the alterations took me six weeks, besides correcting the + press; you ought to make a special agreement with M. Koch [the publisher]. + Many of the corrections are only a few words, but they have been made from + the evidence on various points appearing to have become a little stronger + or weaker. + </p> + <p> + Thus I have been led to place somewhat more value on the definite and + direct action of external conditions; to think the lapse of time, as + measured by years, not quite so great as most geologists have thought; and + to infer that single variations are of even less importance, in comparison + with individual differences, than I formerly thought. I mention these + points because I have been thus led to alter in many places A FEW WORDS; + and unless you go through the whole new edition, one part will not agree + with another, which would be a great blemish... + </p> + <p> + [The desire that his views might spread in France was always strong with + my father, and he was therefore justly annoyed to find that in 1869 the + Editor of the first French edition had brought out a third edition without + consulting the author. He was accordingly glad to enter into an + arrangement for a French translation of the fifth edition; this was + undertaken by M. Reinwald, with whom he continued to have pleasant + relations as the publisher of many of his books into French. + </p> + <p> + He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "I must enjoy myself and tell you about Mdlle. C. Royer, who translated + the 'Origin' into French, and for whose second edition I took infinite + trouble. She has now just brought out a third edition without informing + me, so that all the corrections, etc., in the fourth and fifth English + editions are lost. Besides her enormously long preface to the first + edition, she has added a second preface abusing me like a pick-pocket for + Pangenesis, which of course has no relation to the 'Origin.' So I wrote to + Paris; and Reinwald agrees to bring out at once a new translation from the + fifth English edition, in competition with her third edition... This fact + shows that "evolution of species" must at last be spreading in France." + </p> + <p> + With reference to the spread of Evolution among the orthodox, the + following letter is of some interest. In March he received, from the + author, a copy of a lecture by Rev. T.R.R. Stebbing, given before the + Torquay Natural History Society, February 1, 1869, bearing the title + "Darwinism." My father wrote to Mr. Stebbing:] + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am very much obliged to you for your kindness in sending me your + spirited and interesting lecture; if a layman had delivered the same + address, he would have done good service in spreading what, as I hope and + believe, is to a large extent the truth; but a clergyman in delivering + such an address does, as it appears to me, much more good by his power to + shake ignorant prejudices, and by setting, if I may be permitted to say + so, an admirable example of liberality. + </p> + <p> + With sincere respect, I beg leave to remain, Dear Sir, yours faithfully + and obliged, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The references to the subject of expression in the following letter are + explained by the fact that my father's original intention was to give his + essay on this subject as a chapter in the 'Descent of Man,' which in its + turn grew, as we have seen, out of a proposed chapter in 'Animals and + Plants:'] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, February 22 [1869?]. + </p> + <p> + ... Although you have aided me to so great an extent in many ways, I am + going to beg for any information on two other subjects. I am preparing a + discussion on "Sexual Selection," and I want much to know how low down in + the animal scale sexual selection of a particular kind extends. Do you + know of any lowly organised animals, in which the sexes are separated, and + in which the male differs from the female in arms of offence, like the + horns and tusks of male mammals, or in gaudy plumage and ornaments, as + with birds and butterflies? I do not refer to secondary sexual characters, + by which the male is able to discover the female, like the plumed antennae + of moths, or by which the male is enabled to seize the female, like the + curious pincers described by you in some of the lower Crustaceans. But + what I want to know is, how low in the scale sexual differences occur + which require some degree of self-consciousness in the males, as weapons + by which they fight for the female, or ornaments which attract the + opposite sex. Any differences between males and females which follow + different habits of life would have to be excluded. I think you will + easily see what I wish to learn. A priori, it would never have been + anticipated that insects would have been attracted by the beautiful + colouring of the opposite sex, or by the sounds emitted by the various + musical instruments of the male Orthoptera. I know no one so likely to + answer this question as yourself, and should be grateful for any + information, however small. + </p> + <p> + My second subject refers to expression of countenance, to which I have + long attended, and on which I feel a keen interest; but to which, + unfortunately, I did not attend when I had the opportunity of observing + various races of man. It has occurred to me that you might, without much + trouble, make a FEW observations for me, in the course of some months, on + Negroes, or possibly on native South Americans, though I care most about + Negroes; accordingly I enclose some questions as a guide, and if you could + answer me even one or two I should feel truly obliged. I am thinking of + writing a little essay on the Origin of Mankind, as I have been taunted + with concealing my opinions, and I should do this immediately after the + completion of my present book. In this case I should add a chapter on the + cause or meaning of expression... + </p> + <p> + [The remaining letters of this year deal chiefly with the books, reviews, + etc., which interested him.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H. THIEL. Down, February 25, 1869. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + On my return home after a short absence, I found your very courteous note, + and the pamphlet ('Ueber einige Formen der Landwirthschaftlichen + Genossenschaften.' by Dr. H. Thiel, then of the Agricultural Station at + Poppelsdorf.), and I hasten to thank you for both, and for the very + honourable mention which you make of my name. You will readily believe how + much interested I am in observing that you apply to moral and social + questions analogous views to those which I have used in regard to the + modification of species. It did not occur to me formerly that my views + could be extended to such widely different, and most important, subjects. + With much respect, I beg leave to remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully and obliged, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, March 19 [1869]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Thanks for your 'Address.' (In his 'Anniversary Address' to the Geological + Society, 1869, Mr. Huxley criticised Sir William Thomson's paper ('Trans. + Geol. Soc., Glasgow,' volume iii.) "On Geological Time.") People complain + of the unequal distribution of wealth, but it is a much greater shame and + injustice that any one man should have the power to write so many + brilliant essays as you have lately done. There is no one who writes like + you... If I were in your shoes, I should tremble for my life. I agree with + all you say, except that I must think that you draw too great a + distinction between the evolutionists and the uniformitarians. + </p> + <p> + I find that the few sentences which I have sent to press in the 'Origin' + about the age of the world will do fairly well... + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, March 22 [1869]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have finished your book ('The Malay Archipelago,' etc., 1869.); it seems + to me excellent, and at the same time most pleasant to read. That you ever + returned alive is wonderful after all your risks from illness and sea + voyages, especially that most interesting one to Waigiou and back. Of all + the impressions which I have received from your book, the strongest is + that your perseverance in the cause of science was heroic. Your + descriptions of catching the splendid butterflies have made me quite + envious, and at the same time have made me feel almost young again, so + vividly have they brought before my mind old days when I collected, though + I never made such captures as yours. Certainly collecting is the best + sport in the world. I shall be astonished if your book has not a great + success; and your splendid generalizations on Geographical Distribution, + with which I am familiar from your papers, will be new to most of your + readers. I think I enjoyed most the Timor case, as it is best + demonstrated; but perhaps Celebes is really the most valuable. I should + prefer looking at the whole Asiatic continent as having formerly been more + African in its fauna, than admitting the former existence of a continent + across the Indian Ocean... + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to Mr. Wallace's article in the April number + of the 'Quarterly Review' (My father wrote to Mr. Murray: "The article by + Wallace is inimitably good, and it is a great triumph that such an article + should appear in the 'Quarterly,' and will make the Bishop of Oxford and + —gnash their teeth."), 1869, which to a large extent deals with the + tenth edition of Sir Charles Lyell's 'Principles,' published in 1867 and + 1868. The review contains a striking passage on Sir Charles Lyell's + confession of evolutionary faith in the tenth edition of his 'Principles,' + which is worth quoting: "The history of science hardly presents so + striking an instance of youthfulness of mind in advanced life as is shown + by this abandonment of opinions so long held and so powerfully advocated; + and if we bear in mind the extreme caution, combined with the ardent love + of truth which characterise every work which our author has produced, we + shall be convinced that so great a change was not decided on without long + and anxious deliberation, and that the views now adopted must indeed be + supported by arguments of overwhelming force. If for no other reason than + that Sir Charles Lyell in his tenth edition has adopted it, the theory of + Mr. Darwin deserves an attentive and respectful consideration from every + earnest seeker after truth."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, April 14, 1869. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have been wonderfully interested by your article, and I should think + Lyell will be much gratified by it. I declare if I had been editor, and + had the power of directing you, I should have selected for discussion the + very points which you have chosen. I have often said to younger geologists + (for I began in the year 1830) that they did not know what a revolution + Lyell had effected; nevertheless, your extracts from Cuvier have quite + astonished me. Though not able really to judge, I am inclined to put more + confidence in Croll than you seem to do; but I have been much struck by + many of your remarks on degradation. Thomson's views of the recent age of + the world have been for some time one of my sorest troubles, and so I have + been glad to read what you say. Your exposition of Natural Selection seems + to me inimitably good; there never lived a better expounder than you. I + was also much pleased at your discussing the difference between our views + and Lamarck's. One sometimes sees the odious expression, "Justice to + myself compels me to say," etc., but you are the only man I ever heard of + who persistently does himself an injustice, and never demands justice. + Indeed, you ought in the review to have alluded to your paper in the + 'Linnean Journal,' and I feel sure all our friends will agree in this. But + you cannot "Burke" yourself, however much you may try, as may be seen in + half the articles which appear. I was asked but the other day by a German + professor for your paper, which I sent him. Altogether I look at your + article as appearing in the 'Quarterly' as an immense triumph for our + cause. I presume that your remarks on Man are those to which you alluded + in your note. If you had not told me I should have thought that they had + been added by some one else. As you expected, I differ grievously from + you, and I am very sorry for it. I can see no necessity for calling in an + additional and proximate cause in regard to man. (Mr. Wallace points out + that any one acquainted merely with the "unaided productions of nature," + might reasonably doubt whether a dray-horse, for example, could have been + developed by the power of man directing the "action of the laws of + variation, multiplication, and survival, for his own purpose. We know, + however, that this has been done, and we must therefore admit the + possibility that in the development of the human race, a higher + intelligence has guided the same laws for nobler ends.") But the subject + is too long for a letter. I have been particularly glad to read your + discussion because I am now writing and thinking much about man. + </p> + <p> + I hope that your Malay book sells well; I was extremely pleased with the + article in the 'Quarterly Journal of Science,' inasmuch as it is + thoroughly appreciative of your work: alas! you will probably agree with + what the writer says about the uses of the bamboo. + </p> + <p> + I hear that there is also a good article in the "Saturday Review", but + have heard nothing more about it. Believe me my dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + Yours ever sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, May 4 [1869]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I have been applied to for some photographs (carte de visite) to be copied + to ornament the diplomas of honorary members of a new Society in Servia! + Will you give me one for this purpose? I possess only a full-length one of + you in my own album, and the face is too small, I think, to be copied. + </p> + <p> + I hope that you get on well with your work, and have satisfied yourself on + the difficult point of glacier lakes. Thank heaven, I have finished + correcting the new edition of the 'Origin,' and am at my old work of + Sexual Selection. + </p> + <p> + Wallace's article struck me as ADMIRABLE; how well he brought out the + revolution which you effected some 30 years ago. I thought I had fully + appreciated the revolution, but I was astounded at the extracts from + Cuvier. What a good sketch of natural selection! but I was dreadfully + disappointed about Man, it seems to me incredibly strange...; and had I + not known to the contrary, would have sworn it had been inserted by some + other hand. But I believe that you will not agree quite in all this. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, ever yours sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.L.A. DE QUATREFAGES. Down, May 28 [1869 or + 1870]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have received and read your volume (Essays reprinted from the 'Revue des + Deux Mondes,' under the title 'Histoire Naturelle Generale,' etc., 1869.), + and am much obliged for your present. The whole strikes me as a + wonderfully clear and able discussion, and I was much interested by it to + the last page. It is impossible that any account of my views could be + fairer, or, as far as space permitted, fuller, than that which you have + given. The way in which you repeatedly mention my name is most gratifying + to me. When I had finished the second part, I thought that you had stated + the case so favourably that you would make more converts on my side than + on your own side. On reading the subsequent parts I had to change my + sanguine view. In these latter parts many of your strictures are severe + enough, but all are given with perfect courtesy and fairness. I can truly + say I would rather be criticised by you in this manner than praised by + many others. I agree with some of your criticisms, but differ entirely + from the remainder; but I will not trouble you with any remarks. I may, + however, say, that you must have been deceived by the French translation, + as you infer that I believe that the Parus and the Nuthatch (or Sitta) are + related by direct filiation. I wished only to show by an imaginary + illustration, how either instincts or structures might first change. If + you had seen Canis Magellanicus alive you would have perceived how foxlike + its appearance is, or if you had heard its voice, I think that you would + never have hazarded the idea that it was a domestic dog run wild; but this + does not much concern me. It is curious how nationality influences + opinion; a week hardly passes without my hearing of some naturalist in + Germany who supports my views, and often puts an exaggerated value on my + works; whilst in France I have not heard of a single zoologist, except M. + Gaudry (and he only partially), who supports my views. But I must have a + good many readers as my books are translated, and I must hope, + notwithstanding your strictures, that I may influence some embryo + naturalists in France. + </p> + <p> + You frequently speak of my good faith, and no compliment can be more + delightful to me, but I may return you the compliment with interest, for + every word which you write bears the stamp of your cordial love for the + truth. Believe me, dear Sir, with sincere respect, + </p> + <p> + Yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, October 14 [1869]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + I have been delighted to see your review of Haeckel (A review of Haeckel's + 'Schopfungs-Geschichte.' The "Academy", 1869. Reprinted in 'Critiques and + Addresses,' page 303.), and as usual you pile honours high on my head. But + I write now (REQUIRING NO ANSWER) to groan a little over what you have + said about rudimentary organs. (In discussing Teleology and Haeckel's + "Dysteleology," Prof. Huxley says:—"Such cases as the existence of + lateral rudiments of toes, in the foot of a horse, place us in a dilemma. + For either these rudiments are of no use to the animals, in which case... + they surely ought to have disappeared; or they are of some use to the + animal, in which case they are of no use as arguments against Teleology."—('Critiques + and Addresses,' page 308.) Many heretics will take advantage of what you + have said. I cannot but think that the explanation given at page 541 of + the last edition of the 'Origin' of the long retention of rudimentary + organs and of their greater relative size during early life, is + satisfactory. Their final and complete abortion seems to me a much greater + difficulty. Do look in my 'Variations under Domestication,' volume ii. + page 397, at what Pangenesis suggests on this head, though I did not dare + to put in the 'Origin.' The passage bears also a little on the struggle + between the molecules or gemmules. ("It is a probable hypothesis, that + what the world is to organisms in general, each organism is to the + molecules of which it is composed. Multitudes of these having diverse + tendencies, are competing with one another for opportunity to exist and + multiply; and the organism, as a whole, is as much the product of the + molecules which are victorious as the Fauna, or Flora, of a country is the + product of the victorious organic beings in it."—('Critiques and + Addresses,' page 309.) There is likewise a word or two indirectly bearing + on this subject at pages 394-395. It won't take you five minutes, so do + look at these passages. I am very glad that you have been bold enough to + give your idea about Natural Selection amongst the molecules, though I can + not quite follow you. + </p> + <p> + 1870 AND BEGINNING OF 1871. + </p> + <p> + [My father wrote in his Diary:—"The whole of this year [1870] at + work on the 'Descent of Man.'... Went to Press August 30, 1870." + </p> + <p> + The letters are again of miscellaneous interest, dealing, not only with + his work, but also serving to indicate the course of his reading.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E. RAY LANKESTER. Down, March 15 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I do not know whether you will consider me a very troublesome man, but I + have just finished your book ('Comparative Longevity.'), and can not + resist telling you how the whole has much interested me. No doubt, as you + say, there must be much speculation on such a subject, and certain results + can not be reached; but all your views are highly suggestive, and to my + mind that is high praise. I have been all the more interested as I am now + writing on closely allied though not quite identical points. I was pleased + to see you refer to my much despised child, 'Pangenesis,' who I think will + some day, under some better nurse, turn out a fine stripling. It has also + pleased me to see how thoroughly you appreciate (and I do not think that + this is general with the men of science) H. Spencer; I suspect that + hereafter he will be looked at as by far the greatest living philosopher + in England; perhaps equal to any that have lived. But I have no business + to trouble you with my notions. With sincere thanks for the interest which + your work has given me, + </p> + <p> + I remain, yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter refers to Mr. Wallace's 'Natural Selection' (1870), a + collection of essays reprinted with certain alterations of which a list is + given in the volume:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, April 20 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your book, and read the preface. There never has been + passed on me, or indeed on any one, a higher eulogium than yours. I wish + that I fully deserved it. Your modesty and candour are very far from new + to me. I hope it is a satisfaction to you to reflect—and very few + things in my life have been more satisfactory to me—that we have + never felt any jealousy towards each other, though in one sense rivals. I + believe that I can say this of myself with truth, and I am absolutely sure + that it is true of you. + </p> + <p> + You have been a good Christian to give a list of your additions, for I + want much to read them, and I should hardly have had time just at present + to have gone through all your articles. Of course I shall immediately read + those that are new or greatly altered, and I will endeavour to be as + honest as can reasonably be expected. Your book looks remarkably well got + up. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Wallace, to remain, Yours very cordially, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Here follow one or two letters indicating the progress of the 'Descent of + Man;' the woodcuts referred to were being prepared for that work:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. GUNTHER. (Dr. Gunther, Keeper of Zoology in + the British Museum.) March 23, [1870?]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Gunther, + </p> + <p> + As I do not know Mr. Ford's address, will you hand him this note, which is + written solely to express my unbounded admiration of the woodcuts. I + fairly gloat over them. The only evil is that they will make all the other + woodcuts look very poor! They are all excellent, and for the feathers I + declare I think it the most wonderful woodcut I ever saw; I can not help + touching it to make sure that it is smooth. How I wish to see the two + other, and even more important, ones of the feathers, and the four [of] + reptiles, etc. Once again accept my very sincere thanks for all your + kindness. I am greatly indebted to Mr. Ford. Engravings have always + hitherto been my greatest misery, and now they are a real pleasure to me. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I thought I should have been in press by this time, but my + subject has branched off into sub-branches, which have cost me infinite + time, and heaven knows when I shall have all my MS. ready, but I am never + idle. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. GUNTHER. May 15 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Gunther, + </p> + <p> + Sincere thanks. Your answers are wonderfully clear and complete. I have + some analogous questions on reptiles, etc., which I will send in a few + days, and then I think I shall cause no more trouble. I will get the books + you refer me to. The case of the Solenostoma (In most of the Lophobranchii + the male has a marsupial sack in which the eggs are hatched, and in these + species the male is slightly brighter coloured than the female. But in + Solenostoma the female is the hatcher, and is also the more brightly + coloured.—'Descent of Man,' ii. 21.) is magnificent, so exactly + analogous to that of those birds in which the female is the more gay, but + ten times better for me, as she is the incubator. As I crawl on with the + successive classes I am astonished to find how similar the rules are about + the nuptial or "wedding dress" of all animals. The subject has begun to + interest me in an extraordinary degree; but I must try not to fall into my + common error of being too speculative. But a drunkard might as well say he + would drink a little and not too much! My essay, as far as fishes, + batrachians and reptiles are concerned, will be in fact yours, only + written by me. With hearty thanks. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter is of interest, as showing the excessive care and + pains which my father took in forming his opinion on a difficult point:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, September 23 [undated]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I am very much obliged for all your trouble in writing me your long + letter, which I will keep by me and ponder over. To answer it would + require at least 200 folio pages! If you could see how often I have + re-written some pages you would know how anxious I am to arrive as near as + I can to the truth. I lay great stress on what I know takes place under + domestication; I think we start with different fundamental notions on + inheritance. I find it is most difficult, but not I think impossible, to + see how, for instance, a few red feathers appearing on the head of a male + bird, and which ARE AT FIRST TRANSMITTED TO BOTH SEXES, could come to be + transmitted to males alone. It is not enough that females should be + produced from the males with red feathers, which should be destitute of + red feathers; but these females must have a LATENT TENDENCY to produce + such feathers, otherwise they would cause deterioration in the red + head-feathers of their male offspring. Such latent tendency would be shown + by their producing the red feathers when old, or diseased in their ovaria. + But I have no difficulty in making the whole head red if the few red + feathers in the male from the first tended to be sexually transmitted. I + am quite willing to admit that the female may have been modified, either + at the same time or subsequently, for protection by the accumulation of + variations limited in their transmission to the female sex. I owe to your + writings the consideration of this latter point. But I cannot yet persuade + myself that females ALONE have often been modified for protection. Should + you grudge the trouble briefly to tell me whether you believe that the + plainer head and less bright colours of a female chaffinch, the less red + on the head and less clean colours of the female goldfinch, the much less + red on the breast of the female bull-finch, the paler crest of + golden-crested wren, etc., have been acquired by them for protection. I + cannot think so any more than I can that the considerable differences + between female and male house sparrow, or much greater brightness of the + male Parus coeruleus (both of which build under cover) than of the female + Parus, are related to protection. I even mis-doubt much whether the less + blackness of the female blackbird is for protection. + </p> + <p> + Again, can you give me reasons for believing that the moderate differences + between the female pheasant, the female Gallus bankiva, the female black + grouse, the pea-hen, the female partridge, [and their respective males,] + have all special references to protection under slightly different + conditions? I, of course, admit that they are all protected by dull + colours, derived, as I think, from some dull-ground progenitor; and I + account partly for their difference by partial transference of colour from + the male and by other means too long to specify; but I earnestly wish to + see reason to believe that each is specially adapted for concealment to + its environment. + </p> + <p> + I grieve to differ from you, and it actually terrifies me and makes me + constantly distrust myself. I fear we shall never quite understand each + other. I value the cases of bright-coloured, incubating male fishes, and + brilliant female butterflies, solely as showing that one sex may be made + brilliant without any necessary transference of beauty to the other sex; + for in these cases I cannot suppose that beauty in the other sex was + checked by selection. + </p> + <p> + I fear this letter will trouble you to read it. A very short answer about + your belief in regard to the female finches and gallinaceae would suffice. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Wallace, Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, May 25 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + ... Last Friday we all went to the Bull Hotel at Cambridge to see the + boys, and for a little rest and enjoyment. The backs of the Colleges are + simply paradisaical. On Monday I saw Sedgwick, who was most cordial and + kind; in the morning I thought his brain was enfeebled; in the evening he + was brilliant and quite himself. His affection and kindness charmed us + all. My visit to him was in one way unfortunate; for after a long sit he + proposed to take me to the museum, and I could not refuse, and in + consequence he utterly prostrated me; so that we left Cambridge next + morning, and I have not recovered the exhaustion yet. Is it not + humiliating to be thus killed by a man of eighty-six, who evidently never + dreamed that he was killing me? As he said to me, "Oh, I consider you as a + mere baby to me!" I saw Newton several times, and several nice friends of + F.'s. But Cambridge without dear Henslow was not itself; I tried to get to + the two old houses, but it was too far for me... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO B.J. SULIVAN. (Admiral Sir James Sulivan was a + lieutenant on board the "Beagle".) Down, June 30 [1870]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sulivan, + </p> + <p> + It was very good of you to write to me so long a letter, telling me much + about yourself and your children, which I was extremely glad to hear. + Think what a benighted wretch I am, seeing no one and reading but little + in the newspapers, for I did not know (until seeing the paper of your + Natural History Society) that you were a K.C.B. Most heartily glad I am + that the Government have at last appreciated your most just claim for this + high distinction. On the other hand, I am sorry to hear so poor an account + of your health; but you were surely very rash to do all that you did and + then pass through so exciting a scene as a ball at the Palace. It was + enough to have tired a man in robust health. Complete rest will, however, + I hope, quite set you up again. As for myself, I have been rather better + of late, and if nothing disturbs me I can do some hours' work every day. I + shall this autumn publish another book partly on man, which I dare say + many will decry as very wicked. I could have travelled to Oxford, but + could no more have withstood the excitement of a commemoration (This + refers to an invitation to receive the honorary degree of D.C.L. He was + one of those nominated for the degree by Lord Salisbury on assuming the + office of Chancellor of the University of Oxford. The fact that the honour + was declined on the score of ill-health was published in the "Oxford + University Gazette", June 17, 1870.) than I could a ball at Buckingham + Palace. Many thanks for your kind remarks about my boys. Thank God, all + give me complete satisfaction; my fourth stands second at Woolwich, and + will be an Engineer Officer at Christmas. My wife desires to be very + kindly remembered to Lady Sulivan, in which I very sincerely join, and in + congratulation about your daughter's marriage. We are at present solitary, + for all our younger children are gone a tour in Switzerland. I had never + heard a word about the success of the T. del Fuego mission. It is most + wonderful, and shames me, as I always prophesied utter failure. It is a + grand success. I shall feel proud if your Committee think fit to elect me + an honorary member of your society. With all good wishes and affectionate + remembrances of ancient days, + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Sulivan, Your sincere friend, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [My father's connection with the South American Mission, which is referred + to in the above letter, has given rise to some public comment, and has + been to some extent misunderstood. The Archbishop of Canterbury, speaking + at the annual meeting of the South American Missionary Society, April + 21st, 1885 (I quote a 'Leaflet,' published by the Society.), said that the + Society "drew the attention of Charles Darwin, and made him, in his + pursuit of the wonders of the kingdom of nature, realise that there was + another kingdom just as wonderful and more lasting." Some discussion on + the subject appeared in the "Daily News" of April 23rd, 24th, 29th, 1885, + and finally Admiral Sir James Sulivan, on April 24th, wrote to the same + journal, giving a clear account of my father's connection with the + Society:— + </p> + <p> + "Your article in the "Daily News" of yesterday induces me to give you a + correct statement of the connection between the South American Missionary + Society and Mr. Charles Darwin, my old friend and shipmate for five years. + I have been closely connected with the Society from the time of Captain + Allen Gardiner's death, and Mr. Darwin has often expressed to me his + conviction that it was utterly useless to send Missionaries to such a set + of savages as the Fuegians, probably the very lowest of the human race. I + had always replied that I did not believe any human beings existed too low + to comprehend the simple message of the Gospel of Christ. After many + years, I think about 1869 (It seems to have been in 1867.), but I cannot + find the letter, he wrote to me that the recent accounts of the Mission + proved to him that he had been wrong and I right in our estimates of the + native character, and the possibility of doing them good through + Missionaries; and he requested me to forward to the Society an enclosed + cheque for 5 pounds, as a testimony of the interest he took in their good + work. On June 6th, 1874, he wrote: 'I am very glad to hear so good an + account of the Fuegians, and it is wonderful.' On June 10th, 1879: 'The + progress of the Fuegians is wonderful, and had it not occurred would have + been to me quite incredible.' On January 3rd, 1880: 'Your extracts' [from + a journal] 'about the Fuegians are extremely curious, and have interested + me much. I have often said that the progress of Japan was the greatest + wonder in the world, but I declare that the progress of Fuegia is almost + equally wonderful. On March 20th, 1881: 'The account of the Fuegians + interested not only me, but all my family. It is truly wonderful what you + have heard from Mr. Bridges about their honesty and their language. I + certainly should have predicted that not all the Missionaries in the world + could have done what has been done.' On December 1st, 1881, sending me his + annual subscription to the Orphanage at the Mission Station, he wrote: + 'Judging from the "Missionary Journal", the Mission in Tierra del Fuego + seems going on quite wonderfully well.'"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. Down, July 17, 1870. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lubbock, + </p> + <p> + As I hear that the Census will be brought before the House to-morrow, I + write to say how much I hope that you will express your opinion on the + desirability of queries in relation to consanguineous marriages being + inserted. As you are aware, I have made experiments on the subject during + several years; AND IT IS MY CLEAR CONVICTION THAT THERE IS NOW AMPLE + EVIDENCE OF THE EXISTENCE OF A GREAT PHYSIOLOGICAL LAW, RENDERING AN + ENQUIRY WITH REFERENCE TO MANKIND OF MUCH IMPORTANCE. IN ENGLAND AND MANY + PARTS OF EUROPE THE MARRIAGES OF COUSINS ARE OBJECTED TO FROM THEIR + SUPPOSED INJURIOUS CONSEQUENCES; BUT THIS BELIEF RESTS ON NO DIRECT + EVIDENCE. IT IS THEREFORE MANIFESTLY DESIRABLE THAT THE BELIEF SHOULD + EITHER BE PROVED FALSE, OR SHOULD BE CONFIRMED, so that in this latter + case the marriages of cousins might be discouraged. If the proper queries + are inserted, the returns would show whether married cousins have in their + households on the night of the census as many children as have parents of + who are not related; and should the number prove fewer, we might safely + infer either lessened fertility in the parents, or which is more probable, + lessened vitality in the offspring. + </p> + <p> + It is, moreover, much to be wished that the truth of the often repeated + assertion that consanguineous marriages lead to deafness, and dumbness, + blindness, etc., should be ascertained; and all such assertions could be + easily tested by the returns from a single census. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [When the Census Act was passing through the House of Commons, Sir John + Lubbock and Dr. Playfair attempted to carry out this suggestion. The + question came to a division, which was lost, but not by many votes. + </p> + <p> + The subject of cousin marriages was afterwards investigated by my brother. + ("Marriages between First Cousins in England, and their Effects.' By + George Darwin. 'Journal of the Statistical Society,' June, 1875.) The + results of this laborious piece of work were negative; the author sums up + in the sentence:— + </p> + <p> + "My paper is far from giving any thing like a satisfactory solution of the + question as to the effects of consanguineous marriages, but it does, I + think, show that the assertion that this question has already been set at + rest, cannot be substantiated."] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.VII. — PUBLICATION OF THE 'DESCENT OF MAN.' + </h2> + <h3> + WORK ON 'EXPRESSION.' + </h3> + <p> + 1871-1873. + </p> + <p> + [The last revise of the 'Descent of Man' was corrected on January 15th, + 1871, so that the book occupied him for about three years. He wrote to Sir + J. Hooker: "I finished the last proofs of my book a few days ago, the work + half-killed me, and I have not the most remote idea whether the book is + worth publishing." + </p> + <p> + He also wrote to Dr. Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "I have finished my book on the 'Descent of Man,' etc., and its + publication is delayed only by the Index: when published, I will send you + a copy, but I do not know that you will care about it. Parts, as on the + moral sense, will, I dare say, aggravate you, and if I hear from you, I + shall probably receive a few stabs from your polished stiletto of a pen." + </p> + <p> + The book was published on February 24, 1871. 2500 copies were printed at + first, and 5000 more before the end of the year. My father notes that he + received for this edition 1470 pounds. The letters given in the present + chapter deal with its reception, and also with the progress of the work on + Expression. The letters are given, approximately, in chronological order, + an arrangement which necessarily separates letters of kindred + subjec-matter, but gives perhaps a truer picture of the mingled interests + and labours of my father's life. + </p> + <p> + Nothing can give a better idea (in small compass) of the growth of + Evolutionism and its position at this time, than a quotation from Mr. + Huxley ('Contemporary Review,' 1871.):— + </p> + <p> + "The gradual lapse of time has now separated us by more than a decade from + the date of the publication of the 'Origin of Species;' and whatever may + be thought or said about Mr. Darwin's doctrines, or the manner in which he + has propounded them, this much is certain, that in a dozen years the + 'Origin of Species' has worked as complete a revolution in Biological + Science as the 'Principia' did in Astronomy;" and it has done so, + "because, in the words of Helmholtz, it contains 'an essentially new + creative thought.' And, as time has slipped by, a happy change has come + over Mr. Darwin's critics. The mixture of ignorance and insolence which at + first characterised a large proportion of the attacks with which he was + assailed, is no longer the sad distinction of anti-Darwinian criticism." + </p> + <p> + A passage in the Introduction to the 'Descent of Man' shows that the + author recognised clearly this improvement in the position of Evolution. + "When a naturalist like Carl Vogt ventures to say in his address, as + President of the National Institution of Geneva (1869), 'personne en + Europe au moins, n'ose plus soutenir la creation independante et de toutes + pieces, des especes,' it is manifest that at least a large number of + naturalists must admit that species are the modified descendants of other + species; and this especially holds good with the younger and rising + naturalists... Of the older and honoured chiefs in natural science, many, + unfortunately, are still opposed to Evolution in every form." + </p> + <p> + In Mr. James Hague's pleasantly written article, "A Reminiscence of Mr. + Darwin" ('Harper's Magazine,' October 1884), he describes a visit to my + father "early in 1871" (it must have been at the end of February, within a + week after the publication of the book.), shortly after the publication of + the 'Descent of Man.' Mr. Hague represents my father as "much impressed by + the general assent with which his views had been received," and as + remarking that "everybody is talking about it without being shocked." + </p> + <p> + Later in the year the reception of the book is described in different + language in the 'Edinburgh Review' (July 1871. An adverse criticism. The + reviewer sums up by saying that: "Never perhaps in the history of + philosophy have such wide generalisations been derived from such a small + basis of fact."): "On every side it is raising a storm of mingled wrath, + wonder, and admiration." + </p> + <p> + With regard to the subsequent reception of the 'Descent of Man,' my father + wrote to Dr. Dohrn, February 3, 1872:— + </p> + <p> + "I did not know until reading your article (In 'Das Ausland.'), that my + 'Descent of Man' had excited so much furore in Germany. It has had an + immense circulation in this country and in America, but has met the + approval of hardly any naturalists as far as I know. Therefore I suppose + it was a mistake on my part to publish it; but, anyhow, it will pave the + way for some better work." + </p> + <p> + The book on the 'Expression of the Emotions' was begun on January 17th, + 1871, the last proof of the 'Descent of Man' having been finished on + January 15th. The rough copy was finished by April 27th, and shortly after + this (in June) the work was interrupted by the preparation of a sixth + edition of the 'Origin.' In November and December the proofs of the + 'Expression' book were taken in hand, and occupied him until the following + year, when the book was published. + </p> + <p> + Some references to the work on Expression have occurred in letters already + given, showing that the foundation of the book was, to some extent, laid + down for some years before he began to write it. Thus he wrote to Dr. Asa + Gray, April 15, 1867:— + </p> + <p> + "I have been lately getting up and looking over my old notes on + Expression, and fear that I shall not make so much of my hobby-horse as I + thought I could; nevertheless, it seems to me a curious subject which has + been strangely neglected." + </p> + <p> + It should, however, be remembered that the subject had been before his + mind, more or less, from 1837 or 1838, as I judge from entries in his + early note-books. It was in December, 1839, that he began to make + observations on children. + </p> + <p> + The work required much correspondence, not only with missionaries and + others living among savages, to whom he sent his printed queries, but + among physiologists and physicians. He obtained much information from + Professor Donders, Sir W. Bowman, Sir James Paget, Dr. W. Ogle, Dr. + Crichton Browne, as well as from other observers. + </p> + <p> + The first letter refers to the 'Descent of Man.'] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, January 30 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + (In the note referred to, dated January 27, Mr. Wallace wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "Many thanks for your first volume which I have just finished reading + through with the greatest pleasure and interest; and I have also to thank + you for the great tenderness with which you have treated me and my + heresies." + </p> + <p> + The heresy is the limitation of natural selection as applied to man. My + father wrote ('Descent of Man,' i. page 137):—"I cannot therefore + understand how it is that Mr. Wallace maintains that 'natural selection + could only have endowed the savage with a brain a little superior to that + of an ape.'" In the above quoted letter Mr. Wallace wrote:—"Your + chapters on 'Man' are of intense interest, but as touching my special + heresy not as yet altogether convincing, though of course I fully agree + with every word and every argument which goes to prove the evolution or + development of man out of a lower form.") + </p> + <p> + Your note has given me very great pleasure, chiefly because I was so + anxious not to treat you with the least disrespect, and it is so difficult + to speak fairly when differing from any one. If I had offended you, it + would have grieved me more than you will readily believe. Secondly, I am + greatly pleased to hear that Volume I. interests you; I have got so sick + of the whole subject that I felt in utter doubt about the value of any + part. I intended, when speaking of females not having been specially + modified for protection, to include the prevention of characters acquired + by the male being transmitted to the female; but I now see it would have + been better to have said "specially acted on," or some such term. Possibly + my intention may be clearer in Volume II. Let me say that my conclusions + are chiefly founded on the consideration of all animals taken in a body, + bearing in mind how common the rules of sexual differences appear to be in + all classes. The first copy of the chapter on Lepidoptera agreed pretty + closely with you. I then worked on, came back to Lepidoptera, and thought + myself compelled to alter it—finished Sexual Selection and for the + last time went over Lepidoptera, and again I felt forced to alter it. I + hope to God there will be nothing disagreeable to you in Volume II., and + that I have spoken fairly of your views; I am fearful on this head, + because I have just read (but not with sufficient care) Mivart's book + ('The Genesis of Species,' by St. G. Mivart, 1871.), and I feel ABSOLUTELY + CERTAIN that he meant to be fair (but he was stimulated by theological + fervour); yet I do not think he has been quite fair... The part which, I + think, will have most influence is where he gives the whole series of + cases like that of the whalebone, in which we cannot explain the + gradational steps; but such cases have no weight on my mind—if a few + fish were extinct, who on earth would have ventured even to conjecture + that lungs had originated in a swi-bladder? In such a case as the + Thylacine, I think he was bound to say that the resemblance of the jaw to + that of the dog is superficial; the number and correspondence and + development of teeth being widely different. I think again when speaking + of the necessity of altering a number of characters together, he ought to + have thought of man having power by selection to modify simultaneously or + almost simultaneously many points, as in making a greyhound or racehorse—as + enlarged upon in my 'Domestic Animals.' Mivart is savage or contemptuous + about my "moral sense," and so probably will you be. I am extremely + pleased that he agrees with my position, AS FAR AS ANIMAL NATURE IS + CONCERNED, of man in the series; or if anything, thinks I have erred in + making him too distinct. + </p> + <p> + Forgive me for scribbling at such length. You have put me quite in good + spirits; I did so dread having been unintentionally unfair towards your + views. I hope earnestly the second volume will escape as well. I care now + very little what others say. As for our not quite agreeing, really in such + complex subjects, it is almost impossible for two men who arrive + independently at their conclusions to agree fully, it would be unnatural + for them to do so. + </p> + <p> + Yours ever, very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Professor Haeckel seems to have been one of the first to write to my + father about the 'Descent of Man.' I quote from his reply:— + </p> + <p> + "I must send you a few words to thank you for your interesting, and I may + truly say, charming letter. I am delighted that you approve of my book, as + far as you have read it. I felt very great difficulty and doubt how often + I ought to allude to what you have published; strictly speaking every + idea, although occurring independently to me, if published by you + previously ought to have appeared as if taken from your works, but this + would have made my book very dull reading; and I hoped that a full + acknowledgment at the beginning would suffice. (In the introduction to the + 'Descent of Man' the author wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "This last naturalist [Haeckel]... has recently... published his + 'Naturliche Schopfungs-geschichte,' in which he fully discusses the + genealogy of man. If this work had appeared before my essay had been + written, I should probably never have completed it. Almost all the + conclusions at which I have arrived, I find confirmed by this naturalist, + whose knowledge on many points is much fuller than mine.") I cannot tell + you how glad I am to find that I have expressed my high admiration of your + labours with sufficient clearness; I am sure that I have not expressed it + too strongly."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, March 16, 1871. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have just read your grand review. ("Academy", March 15, 1871.) It is in + every way as kindly expressed towards myself as it is excellent in matter. + The Lyells have been here, and Sir C. remarked that no one wrote such good + scientific reviews as you, and as Miss Buckley added, you delight in + picking out all that is good, though very far from blind to the bad. In + all this I most entirely agree. I shall always consider your review as a + great honour; and however much my book may hereafter be abused, as no + doubt it will be, your review will console me, notwithstanding that we + differ so greatly. I will keep your objections to my views in my mind, but + I fear that the latter are almost stereotyped in my mind. I thought for + long weeks about the inheritance and selection difficulty, and covered + quires of paper with notes in trying to get out of it, but could not, + though clearly seeing that it would be a great relief if I could. I will + confine myself to two or three remarks. I have been much impressed with + what you urge against colour (Mr. Wallace says that the pairing of + butterflies is probably determined by the fact that one male is + stronger-winged, or more pertinacious than the rest, rather than by the + choice of the females. He quotes the case of caterpillars which are + brightly coloured and yet sexless. Mr. Wallace also makes the good + criticism that the 'Descent of Man' consists of two books mixed together.) + in the case of insects, having been acquired through sexual selection. I + always saw that the evidence was very weak; but I still think, if it be + admitted that the musical instruments of insects have been gained through + sexual selection, that there is not the least improbability in colour + having been thus gained. Your argument with respect to the denudation of + mankind and also to insects, that taste on the part of one sex would have + to remain nearly the same during many generations, in order that sexual + selection should produce any effect, I agree to; and I think this argument + would be sound if used by one who denied that, for instance, the plumes of + birds of Paradise had been so gained. I believe you admit this, and if so + I do not see how your argument applies in other cases. I have recognized + for some short time that I have made a great omission in not having + discussed, as far as I could, the acquisition of taste, its inherited + nature, and its permanence within pretty close limits for long periods. + </p> + <p> + [With regard to the success of the 'Descent of Man,' I quote from a letter + to Professor Ray Lankester (March 22, 1871):— + </p> + <p> + "I think you will be glad to hear, as a proof of the increasing liberality + of England, that my book has sold wonderfully... and as yet no abuse + (though some, no doubt, will come, strong enough), and only contempt even + in the poor old 'Athenaeum'." + </p> + <p> + As to reviews that struck him he wrote to Mr. Wallace (March 24, 1871):— + </p> + <p> + "There is a very striking second article on my book in the 'Pall Mall'. + The articles in the "Spectator" ("Spectator", March 11 and 18, 1871. With + regard to the evolution of conscience the reviewer thinks that my father + comes much nearer to the "kernel of the psychological problem" than many + of his predecessors. The second article contains a good discussion of the + bearing of the book on the question of design, and concludes by finding in + it a vindication of Theism more wonderful than that in Paley's 'Natural + Theology.') have also interested me much." + </p> + <p> + On March 20 he wrote to Mr. Murray:— + </p> + <p> + "Many thanks for the "Nonconformist" [March 8, 1871]. I like to see all + that is written, and it is of some real use. If you hear of reviewers in + out-of-the-way papers, especially the religious, as "Record", "Guardian", + "Tablet", kindly inform me. It is wonderful that there has been no abuse + ("I feel a full conviction that my chapter on man will excite attention + and plenty of abuse, and I suppose abuse is as good as praise for selling + a book."—(from a letter to Mr. Murray, January 31, 1867.) as yet, + but I suppose I shall not escape. On the whole, the reviews have been + highly favourable." + </p> + <p> + The following extract from a letter to Mr. Murray (April 13, 1871) refers + to a review in the "Times". ("Times", April 7 and 8, 1871. The review is + not only unfavourable as regards the book under discussion, but also as + regards Evolution in general, as the following citation will show: "Even + had it been rendered highly probable, which we doubt, that the animal + creation has been developed into its numerous and widely different + varieties by mere evolution, it would still require an independent + investigation of overwhelming force and completeness to justify the + presumption that man is but a term in this self-evolving series.") + </p> + <p> + "I have no idea who wrote the "Times" review. He has no knowledge of + science, and seems to me a wind-bag full of metaphysics and classics, so + that I do not much regard his adverse judgment, though I suppose it will + injure the sale." + </p> + <p> + A review of the 'Descent of Man,' which my father spoke of as "capital," + appeared in the "Saturday Review" (March 4 and 11, 1871). A passage from + the first notice (March 4) may be quoted in illustration of the broad + basis as regards general acceptance, on which the doctrine of Evolution + now stood: "He claims to have brought man himself, his origin and + constitution, within that unity which he had previously sought to trace + through all lower animal forms. The growth of opinion in the interval, due + in chief measure to his own intermediate works, has placed the discussion + of this problem in a position very much in advance of that held by it + fifteen years ago. The problem of Evolution is hardly any longer to be + treated as one of first principles; nor has Mr. Darwin to do battle for a + first hearing of his central hypothesis, upborne as it is by a phalanx of + names full of distinction and promise, in either hemisphere." + </p> + <p> + The infolded point of the human ear, discovered by Mr. Woolner, and + described in the 'Descent of Man,' seems especially to have struck the + popular imagination; my father wrote to Mr. Woolner:— + </p> + <p> + "The tips to the ears have become quite celebrated. One reviewer + ('Nature') says they ought to be called, as I suggested in joke, Angulus + Woolnerianus. ('Nature' April 6, 1871. The term suggested is Angulus + Woolnerii.) A German is very proud to find that he has the tips well + developed, and I believe will send me a photograph of his ears."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN BRODIE INNES. (Rev. J. Brodie Innes, of + Milton Brodie, formerly Vicar of Down.) Down, May 29 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Innes, + </p> + <p> + I have been very glad to receive your pleasant letter, for to tell you the + truth, I have sometimes wondered whether you would not think me an outcast + and a reprobate after the publication of my last book ['Descent']. (In a + former letter of my father's to Mr. Innes:—"We often differed, but + you are one of those rare mortals from whom one can differ and yet feel no + shade of animosity, and that is a thing which I should feel very proud of, + if any one could say it of me.") I do not wonder at all at your not + agreeing with me, for a good many professed naturalists do not. Yet when I + see in how extraordinary a manner the judgment of naturalists has changed + since I published the 'Origin,' I feel convinced that there will be in ten + years quite as much unanimity about man, as far as his corporeal frame is + concerned... + </p> + <p> + [The following letters addressed to Dr. Ogle deal with the progress of the + work on expression.] + </p> + <p> + Down, March 12 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Ogle, + </p> + <p> + I have received both your letters, and they tell me all that I wanted to + know in the clearest possible way, as, indeed, all your letters have ever + done. I thank you cordially. I will give the case of the murderer + ('Expression of the Emotions,' page 294. The arrest of a murderer, as + witnessed by Dr. Ogle in a hospital.) in my hobby-horse essay on + expression. I fear that the Eustachian tube question must have cost you a + deal of labour; it is quite a complete little essay. It is pretty clear + that the mouth is not opened under surprise merely to improve the hearing. + Yet why do deaf men generally keep their mouths open? The other day a man + here was mimicking a deaf friend, leaning his head forward and sideways to + the speaker, with his mouth well open; it was a lifelike representation of + a deaf man. Shakespeare somewhere says: "Hold your breath, listen" or + "hark," I forget which. Surprise hurries the breath, and it seems to me + one can breathe, at least hurriedly, much quieter through the open mouth + than through the nose. I saw the other day you doubted this. As objection + is your province at present, I think breathing through the nose ought to + come within it likewise, so do pray consider this point, and let me hear + your judgment. Consider the nose to be a flower to be fertilised, and then + you will make out all about it. (Dr. Ogle had corresponded with my father + on his own observations on the fertilisation of flowers.) I have had to + allude to your paper on 'Sense of Smell' (Medico-chirurg. Trans. liii.); + is the paging right, namely, 1, 2, 3? If not, I protest by all the gods + against the plan followed by some, of having presentation copies falsely + paged; and so does Rolleston, as he wrote to me the other day. In haste. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. OGLE. Down, March 25 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Ogle, + </p> + <p> + You will think me a horrid bore, but I beg you, IN RELATION TO A NEW POINT + FOR OBSERVATION, to imagine as well as you can that you suddenly come + across some dreadful object, and act with a sudden little start, a SHUDDER + OF HORROR; please do this once or twice, and observe yourself as well as + you can, and AFTERWARDS read the rest of this note, which I have + consequently pinned down. I find, to my surprise, whenever I act thus my + platysma contracts. Does yours? (N.B.—See what a man will do for + science; I began this note with a horrid fib, namely, that I want you to + attend to a new point. (The point was doubtless described as a new one, to + avoid the possibility of Dr. Ogle's attention being directed to the + platysma, a muscle which had been the subject of discussion in other + letters.)) I will try and get some persons thus to act who are so lucky as + not to know that they even possess this muscle, so troublesome for any one + making out about expression. Is a shudder akin to the rigor or shivering + before fever? If so, perhaps the platysma could be observed in such cases. + Paget told me that he had attended much to shivering, and had written in + MS. on the subject, and been much perplexed about it. He mentioned that + passing a catheter often causes shivering. Perhaps I will write to him + about the platysma. He is always most kind in aiding me in all ways, but + he is so overworked that it hurts my conscience to trouble him, for I have + a conscience, little as you have reason to think so. Help me if you can, + and forgive me. Your murderer case has come in splendidly as the acme of + prostration from fear. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO DR. OGLE. Down, April 29 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Ogle, + </p> + <p> + I am truly obliged for all the great trouble which you have so kindly + taken. I am sure you have no cause to say that you are sorry you can give + me no definite information, for you have given me far more than I ever + expected to get. The action of the platysma is not very important for me, + but I believe that you will fully understand (for I have always fancied + that our minds were very similar) the intolerable desire I had not to be + utterly baffled. Now I know that it sometimes contracts from fear and from + shuddering, but not apparently from a prolonged state of fear such as the + insane suffer... + </p> + <p> + [Mr. Mivart's 'Genesis of Species,'—a contribution to the literature + of Evolution, which excited much attention—was published in 1871, + before the appearance of the 'Descent of Man.' To this book the following + letter (June 21, 1871) from the late Chauncey Wright to my father refers. + (Chauncey Wright was born at Northampton, Massachusetts, September 20, + 1830, and came of a family settled in that town since 1654. He became in + 1852 a computer in the Nautical Almanac office at Cambridge, Mass., and + lived a quiet uneventful life, supported by the small stipend of his + office, and by what he earned from his occasional articles, as well as by + a little teaching. He thought and read much on metaphysical subjects, but + on the whole with an outcome (as far as the world was concerned) not + commensurate to the power of his mind. He seems to have been a man of + strong individuality, and to have made a lasting impression on his + friends. He died in September, 1875.)]: + </p> + <p> + "I send... revised proofs of an article which will be published in the + July number of the 'North American Review,' sending it in the hope that it + will interest or even be of greater value to you. Mr. Mivart's book + ['Genesis of Species'] of which this article is substantially a review, + seems to me a very good background from which to present the + considerations which I have endeavoured to set forth in the article, in + defence and illustration of the theory of Natural Selection. My special + purpose has been to contribute to the theory by placing it in its proper + relations to philosophical enquiries in general." ('Letters of Chauncey + Wright,' by J.B. Thayer. Privately printed, 1878, page 230.) + </p> + <p> + With regard to the proofs received from Mr. Wright, my father wrote to Mr. + Wallace:] + </p> + <p> + Down, July 9 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I send by this post a review by Chauncey Wright, as I much want your + opinion of it as soon as you can send it. I consider you an incomparably + better critic than I am. The article, though not very clearly written, and + poor in parts from want of knowledge, seems to me admirable. Mivart's book + is producing a great effect against Natural Selection, and more especially + against me. Therefore if you think the article even somewhat good I will + write and get permission to publish it as a shilling pamphlet, together + with the MS. additions (enclosed), for which there was not room at the end + of the review... + </p> + <p> + I am now at work at a new and cheap edition of the 'Origin,' and shall + answer several points in Mivart's book, and introduce a new chapter for + this purpose; but I treat the subject so much more concretely, and I dare + say less philosophically, than Wright, that we shall not interfere with + each other. You will think me a bigot when I say, after studying Mivart, I + was never before in my life so convinced of the GENERAL (i.e. not in + detail) truth of the views in the 'Origin.' I grieve to see the omission + of the words by Mivart, detected by Wright. ('North American Review,' + volume 113, pages 83, 84. Chauncey Wright points out that the words + omitted are "essential to the point on which he [Mr. Mivart] cites Mr. + Darwin's authority." It should be mentioned that the passage from which + words are omitted is not given within inverted commas by Mr. Mivart.) I + complained to Mivart that in two cases he quotes only the commencement of + sentences by me, and thus modifies my meaning; but I never supposed he + would have omitted words. There are other cases of what I consider unfair + treatment. I conclude with sorrow that though he means to be honourable he + is so bigoted that he cannot act fairly... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO CHAUNCEY WRIGHT. Down, July 14, 1871. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have hardly ever in my life read an article which has given me so much + satisfaction as the review which you have been so kind as to send me. I + agree to almost everything which you say. Your memory must be wonderfully + accurate, for you know my works as well as I do myself, and your power of + grasping other men's thoughts is something quite surprising; and this, as + far as my experience goes, is a very rare quality. As I read on I + perceived how you have acquired this power, viz. by thoroughly analyzing + each word. + </p> + <p> + ... Now I am going to beg a favour. Will you provisionally give me + permission to reprint your article as a shilling pamphlet? I ask only + provisionally, as I have not yet had time to reflect on the subject. It + would cost me, I fancy, with advertisements, some 20 or 30 pounds; but the + worst is that, as I hear, pamphlets never will sell. And this makes me + doubtful. Should you think it too much trouble to send me a title FOR THE + CHANCE? The title ought, I think, to have Mr. Mivart's name on it. + </p> + <p> + ... If you grant permission and send a title, you will kindly understand + that I will first make further enquiries whether there is any chance of a + pamphlet being read. + </p> + <p> + Pray believe me yours very sincerely obliged, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The pamphlet was published in the autumn, and on October 23 my father + wrote to Mr. Wright:— + </p> + <p> + "It pleases me much that you are satisfied with the appearance of your + pamphlet. I am sure it will do our cause good service; and this same + opinion Huxley has expressed to me. ('Letters of Chauncey Wright,' page + 235."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, July 12 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + ... I feel very doubtful how far I shall succeed in answering Mivart, it + is so difficult to answer objections to doubtful points, and make the + discussion readable. I shall make only a selection. The worst of it is, + that I cannot possibly hunt through all my references for isolated points, + it would take me three weeks of intolerably hard work. I wish I had your + power of arguing clearly. At present I feel sick of everything, and if I + could occupy my time and forget my daily discomforts, or rather miseries, + I would never publish another word. But I shall cheer up, I dare say, + soon, having only just got over a bad attack. Farewell; God knows why I + bother you about myself. I can say nothing more about missing-links than + what I have said. I should rely much on pre-silurian times; but then comes + Sir W. Thomson like an odious spectre. Farewell. + </p> + <p> + ... There is a most cutting review of me in the 'Quarterly' (July 1871.); + I have only read a few pages. The skill and style make me think of Mivart. + I shall soon be viewed as the most despicable of men. This 'Quarterly + Review' tempts me to republish Ch. Wright, even if not read by any one, + just to show some one will say a word against Mivart, and that his (i.e. + Mivart's) remarks ought not to be swallowed without some reflection... God + knows whether my strength and spirit will last out to write a chapter + versus Mivart and others; I do so hate controversy and feel I shall do it + so badly. + </p> + <p> + [The above-mentioned 'Quarterly' review was the subject of an article by + Mr. Huxley in the November number of the 'Contemporary Review.' Here, + also, are discussed Mr. Wallace's 'Contribution to the Theory of Natural + Selection,' and the second edition of Mr. Mivart's 'Genesis of Species.' + What follows is taken from Mr. Huxley's article. The 'Quarterly' reviewer, + though being to some extent an evolutionist, believes that Man "differs + more from an elephant or a gorilla, than do these from the dust of the + earth on which they tread." The reviewer also declares that my father has + "with needless opposition, set at naught the first principles of both + philosophy and religion." Mr. Huxley passes from the 'Quarterly' + reviewer's further statement, that there is no necessary opposition + between evolution and religion, to the more definite position taken by Mr. + Mivart, that the orthodox authorities of the Roman Catholic Church agree + in distinctly asserting derivative creation, so that "their teachings + harmonise with all that modern science can possibly require." Here Mr. + Huxley felt the want of that "study of Christian philosophy" (at any rate, + in its Jesuitic garb), which Mr. Mivart speaks of, and it was a want he at + once set to work to fill up. He was then staying at St. Andrews, whence he + wrote to my father:— + </p> + <p> + "By great good luck there is an excellent library here, with a good copy + of Suarez (The learned Jesuit on whom Mr. Mivart mainly relies.), in a + dozen big folios. Among these I dived, to the great astonishment of the + librarian, and looking into them 'as the careful robin eyes the delver's + toil' (vide 'Idylls'), I carried off the two venerable clasped volumes + which were most promising." Even those who know Mr. Huxley's unrivalled + power of tearing the heart out of a book must marvel at the skill with + which he has made Suarez speak on his side. "So I have come out," he + wrote, "in the new character of a defender of Catholic orthodoxy, and + upset Mivart out of the mouth of his own prophet." + </p> + <p> + The remainder of Mr. Huxley's critique is largely occupied with a + dissection of the 'Quarterly' reviewer's psychology, and his ethical + views. He deals, too, with Mr. Wallace's objections to the doctrine of + Evolution by natural causes when applied to the mental faculties of Man. + Finally, he devotes a couple of pages to justifying his description of the + 'Quarterly' reviewer's "treatment of Mr. Darwin as alike unjust and + unbecoming." + </p> + <p> + It will be seen that the two following letters were written before the + publication of Mr. Huxley's article.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, September 21 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Your letter has pleased me in many ways, to a wonderful degree... What a + wonderful man you are to grapple with those old metaphysico-divinity + books. It quite delights me that you are going to some extent to answer + and attack Mivart. His book, as you say, has produced a great effect; + yesterday I perceived the reverberations from it, even from Italy. It was + this that made me ask Chauncey Wright to publish at my expense his + article, which seems to me very clever, though ill-written. He has not + knowledge enough to grapple with Mivart in detail. I think there can be no + shadow of doubt that he is the author of the article in the 'Quarterly + Review'... I am preparing a new edition of the 'Origin,' and shall + introduce a new chapter in answer to miscellaneous objections, and shall + give up the greater part to answer Mivart's cases of difficulty of + incipient structures being of no use: and I find it can be done easily. He + never states his case fairly, and makes wonderful blunders... The pendulum + is now swinging against our side, but I feel positive it will soon swing + the other way; and no mortal man will do half as much as you in giving it + a start in the right direction, as you did at the first commencement. God + forgive me for writing so long and egotistical a letter; but it is your + fault, for you have so delighted me; I never dreamed that you would have + time to say a word in defence of the cause which you have so often + defended. It will be a long battle, after we are dead and gone... Great is + the power of misrepresentation... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, September 30 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + It was very good of you to send the proof-sheets, for I was VERY anxious + to read your article. I have been delighted with it. How you do smash + Mivart's theology: it is almost equal to your article versus Comte + ('Fortnightly Review,' 1869. With regard to the relations of Positivism to + Science my father wrote to Mr. Spencer in 1875: "How curious and amusing + it is to see to what an extent the Positivists hate all men of science; I + fancy they are dimly conscious what laughable and gigantic blunders their + prophet made in predicting the course of science."),—that never can + be transcended... But I have been preeminently glad to read your + discussion on [the 'Quarterly' reviewer's] metaphysics, especially about + reason and his definition of it. I felt sure he was wrong, but having only + common observation and sense to trust to, I did not know what to say in my + second edition of my 'Descent.' Now a footnote and reference to you will + do the work... For me, this is one of the most IMPORTANT parts of the + review. But for PLEASURE, I have been particularly glad that my few words + ('Descent of Man,' volume i. page 87. A discussion on the question whether + an act done impulsively or instinctively can be called moral.) on the + distinction, if it can be so called, between Mivart's two forms of + morality, caught your attention. I am so pleased that you take the same + view, and give authorities for it; but I searched Mill in vain on this + head. How well you argue the whole case. I am mounting climax on climax; + for after all there is nothing, I think, better in your whole review than + your arguments v. Wallace on the intellect of savages. I must tell you + what Hooker said to me a few years ago. "When I read Huxley, I feel quite + infantile in intellect." By Jove I have felt the truth of this throughout + your review. What a man you are. There are scores of splendid passages, + and vivid flashes of wit. I have been a good deal more than merely pleased + by the concluding part of your review; and all the more, as I own I felt + mortified by the accusation of bigotry, arrogance, etc., in the 'Quarterly + Review.' But I assure you, he may write his worst, and he will never + mortify me again. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, yours gratefully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Haredene, Albury, August 2 [1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your last letter has interested me greatly; it is wonderfully rich in + facts and original thoughts. First, let me say that I have been much + pleased by what you say about my book. It has had a VERY LARGE sale; but I + have been much abused for it, especially for the chapter on the moral + sense; and most of my reviewers consider the book as a poor affair. God + knows what its merits may really be; all that I know is that I did my + best. With familiarity I think naturalists will accept sexual selection to + a greater extent than they now seem inclined to do. I should very much + like to publish your letter, but I do not see how it could be made + intelligible, without numerous coloured illustrations, but I will consult + Mr. Wallace on this head. I earnestly hope that you keep notes of all your + letters, and that some day you will publish a book: 'Notes of a Naturalist + in S. Brazil,' or some such title. Wallace will hardly admit the + possibility of sexual selection with Lepidoptera, and no doubt it is very + improbable. Therefore, I am very glad to hear of your cases (which I will + quote in the next edition) of the two sets of Hesperiadae, which display + their wings differently, according to which surface is coloured. I cannot + believe that such display is accidental and purposeless... + </p> + <p> + No fact of your letter has interested me more than that about mimicry. It + is a capital fact about the males pursuing the wrong females. You put the + difficulty of the first steps in imitation in a most striking and + CONVINCING manner. Your idea of sexual selection having aided protective + imitation interests me greatly, for the same idea had occurred to me in + quite different cases, viz. the dulness of all animals in the Galapagos + Islands, Patagonia, etc., and in some other cases; but I was afraid even + to hint at such an idea. Would you object to my giving some such sentence + as follows: "F. Muller suspects that sexual selection may have come into + play, in aid of protective imitation, in a very peculiar manner, which + will appear extremely improbable to those who do not fully believe in + sexual selection. It is that the appreciation of certain colour is + developed in those species which frequently behold other species thus + ornamented." Again let me thank you cordially for your most interesting + letter... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E.B. TYLOR. Down, [September 24, 1871]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will allow me to have the pleasure of telling you how + greatly I have been interested by your 'Primitive Culture,' now that I + have finished it. It seems to me a most profound work, which will be + certain to have permanent value, and to be referred to for years to come. + It is wonderful how you trace animism from the lower races up to the + religious belief of the highest races. It will make me for the future look + at religion—a belief in the soul, etc.—from a new point of + view. How curious, also, are the survivals or rudiments of old customs... + You will perhaps be surprised at my writing at so late a period, but I + have had the book read aloud to me, and from much ill-health of late could + only stand occasional short reads. The undertaking must have cost you + gigantic labour. Nevertheless, I earnestly hope that you may be induced to + treat morals in the same enlarged yet careful manner, as you have animism. + I fancy from the last chapter that you have thought of this. No man could + do the work so well as you, and the subject assuredly is a most important + and interesting one. You must now possess references which would guide you + to a sound estimation of the morals of savages; and how writers like + Wallace, Lubbock, etc., etc., do differ on this head. Forgive me for + troubling you, and believe me, with much respect, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + 1872. + </p> + <p> + [At the beginning of the year the sixth edition of the 'Origin,' which had + been begun in June, 1871, was nearly completed. The last sheet was revised + on January 10, 1872, and the book was published in the course of the + month. This volume differs from the previous ones in appearance and size—it + consists of 458 pages instead of 596 pages and is a few ounces lighter; it + is printed on bad paper, in small type, and with the lines unpleasantly + close together. It had, however, one advantage over previous editions, + namely that it was issued at a lower price. It is to be regretted that + this the final edition of the 'Origin' should have appeared in so + unattractive a form; a form which has doubtless kept off many readers from + the book. + </p> + <p> + The discussion suggested by the 'Genesis of Species' was perhaps the most + important addition to the book. The objection that incipient structures + cannot be of use was dealt with in some detail, because it seemed to the + author that this was the point in Mr. Mivart's book which has struck most + readers in England. + </p> + <p> + It is a striking proof of how wide and general had become the acceptance + of his views that my father found it necessary to insert (sixth edition, + page 424), the sentence: "As a record of a former state of things, I have + retained in the foregoing paragraphs and also elsewhere, several sentences + which imply that naturalists believe in the separate creation of each + species; and I have been much censured for having thus expressed myself. + But undoubtedly this was the general belief when the first edition of the + present work appeared... Now things are wholly changed, and almost every + naturalist admits the great principle of evolution." + </p> + <p> + A small correction introduced into this sixth edition is connected with + one of his minor papers: "Note on the habits of the Pampas Woodpecker." + (Zoolog. Soc. Proc. 1870.) In the fifth edition of the 'Origin,' page 220, + he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "Yet as I can assert not only from my own observation, but from that of + the accurate Azara, it [the ground woodpecker] never climbs a tree." The + paper in question was a reply to Mr. Hudson's remarks on the woodpecker in + a previous number of the same journal. The last sentence of my father's + paper is worth quoting for its temperate tone: "Finally, I trust that Mr. + Hudson is mistaken when he says that any one acquainted with the habits of + this bird might be induced to believe that I 'had purposely wrested the + truth' in order to prove my theory. He exonerates me from this charge; but + I should be loath to think that there are many naturalists who, without + any evidence, would accuse a fellow-worker of telling a deliberate + falsehood to prove his theory." In the sixth edition, page 142, the + passage runs "in certain large districts it does not climb trees." And he + goes on to give Mr. Hudson's statement that in other regions it does + frequent trees. + </p> + <p> + One of the additions in the sixth edition (page 149), was a reference to + Mr. A. Hyatt's and Professor Cope's theory of "acceleration." With regard + to this he wrote (October 10, 1872) in characteristic words to Mr. Hyatt:— + </p> + <p> + "Permit me to take this opportunity to express my sincere regret at having + committed two grave errors in the last edition of my 'Origin of Species,' + in my allusion to yours and Professor Cope's views on acceleration and + retardation of development. I had thought that Professor Cope had preceded + you; but I now well remember having formerly read with lively interest, + and marked, a paper by you somewhere in my library, on fossil Cephalapods + with remarks on the subject. It seems also that I have quite + misrepresented your joint view. This has vexed me much. I confess that I + have never been able to grasp fully what you wish to show, and I presume + that this must be owing to some dulness on my part." + </p> + <p> + Lastly, it may be mentioned that this cheap edition being to some extent + intended as a popular one, was made to include a glossary of technical + terms, "given because several readers have complained... that some of the + terms used were unintelligible to them." The glossary was compiled by Mr. + Dallas, and being an excellent collection of clear and sufficient + definitions, must have proved useful to many readers.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.L.A. DE QUATREFAGES. Down, January 15, 1872. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am much obliged for your very kind letter and exertions in my favour. I + had thought that the publication of my last book ['Descent of Man'] would + have destroyed all your sympathy with me, but though I estimated very + highly your great liberality of mind, it seems that I underrated it. + </p> + <p> + I am gratified to hear that M. Lacaze-Duthiers will vote (He was not + elected as a corresponding member of the French Academy until 1878.) for + me, for I have long honoured his name. I cannot help regretting that you + should expend your valuable time in trying to obtain for me the honour of + election, for I fear, judging from the last time, that all your labour + will be in vain. Whatever the result may be, I shall always retain the + most lively recollection of your sympathy and kindness, and this will + quite console me for my rejection. + </p> + <p> + With much respect and esteem, I remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours truly obliged, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—With respect to the great stress which you lay on man walking + on two legs, whilst the quadrumana go on all fours, permit me to remind + you that no one much values the great difference in the mode of + locomotion, and consequently in structure, between seals and the + terrestrial carnivora, or between the almost biped kangaroos and other + marsupials. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO AUGUST WEISMANN. (Professor of Zoology in + Freiburg.) Down, April 5, 1872. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now read your essay ('Ueber den Einfluss der Isolirung auf die + Artbildung.' Leipzig, 1872.) with very great interest. Your view of the + 'Origin' of local races through "Amixie," is altogether new to me, and + seems to throw an important light on an obscure problem. There is, + however, something strange about the periods or endurance of variability. + I formerly endeavoured to investigate the subject, not by looking to past + time, but to species of the same genus widely distributed; and I found in + many cases that all the species, with perhaps one or two exceptions, were + variable. It would be a very interesting subject for a conchologist to + investigate, viz., whether the species of the same genus were variable + during many successive geological formations. I began to make enquiries on + this head, but failed in this, as in so many other things, from the want + of time and strength. In your remarks on crossing, you do not, as it seems + to me, lay nearly stress enough on the increased vigour of the offspring + derived from parents which have been exposed to different conditions. I + have during the last five years been making experiments on this subject + with plants, and have been astonished at the results, which have not yet + been published. + </p> + <p> + In the first part of your essay, I thought that you wasted (to use an + English expression) too much powder and shot on M. Wagner (Prof. Wagner + has written two essays on the same subject. 'Die Darwin'sche Theorie und + das Migrationsgesetz, in 1868, and 'Ueber den Einfluss der Geographischen + Isolirung, etc.,' an address to the Bavarian Academy of Sciences at + Munich, 1870.); but I changed my opinion when I saw how admirably you + treated the whole case, and how well you used the facts about the + Planorbis. I wish I had studied this latter case more carefully. The + manner in which, as you show, the different varieties blend together and + make a constant whole, agrees perfectly with my hypothetical + illustrations. + </p> + <p> + Many years ago the late E. Forbes described three closely consecutive beds + in a secondary formation, each with representative forms of the same + fres-water shells: the case is evidently analogous with that of Hilgendorf + ("Ueber Planorbis multiformis im Steinheimer Susswasser-kalk." + Monatsbericht of the Berlin Academy, 1866.), but the interesting + connecting varieties or links were here absent. I rejoice to think that I + formerly said as emphatically as I could, that neither isolation nor time + by themselves do anything for the modification of species. Hardly anything + in your essay has pleased me so much personally, as to find that you + believe to a certain extent in sexual selection. As far as I can judge, + very few naturalists believe in this. I may have erred on many points, and + extended the doctrine too far, but I feel a strong conviction that sexual + selection will hereafter be admitted to be a powerful agency. I cannot + agree with what you say about the taste for beauty in animals not easily + varying. It may be suspected that even the habit of viewing differently + coloured surrounding objects would influence their taste, and Fritz Muller + even goes so far as to believe that the sight of gaudy butterflies might + influence the taste of distinct species. There are many remarks and + statements in your essay which have interested me greatly, and I thank you + for the pleasure which I have received from reading it. + </p> + <p> + With sincere respect, I remain, My dear Sir, yours very faithfully, + CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—If you should ever be induced to consider the whole doctrine of + sexual selection, I think that you will be led to the conclusion, that + characters thus gained by one sex are very commonly transferred in a + greater or less degree to the other sex. + </p> + <p> + [With regard to Moritz Wagner's first Essay, my father wrote to that + naturalist, apparently in 1868:] + </p> + <p> + Dear and respected Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for sending me your 'Migrationsgesetz, etc.,' and + for the very kind and most honourable notice which you have taken of my + works. That a naturalist who has travelled into so many and such distant + regions, and who has studied animals of so many classes, should, to a + considerable extent, agree with me, is, I can assure you, the highest + gratification of which I am capable... Although I saw the effects of + isolation in the case of islands and mountain-ranges, and knew of a few + instances of rivers, yet the greater number of your facts were quite + unknown to me. I now see that from the want of knowledge I did not make + nearly sufficient use of the views which you advocate; and I almost wish I + could believe in its importance to the same extent with you; for you well + show, in a manner which never occurred to me, that it removes many + difficulties and objections. But I must still believe that in many large + areas all the individuals of the same species have been slowly modified, + in the same manner, for instance, as the English race-horse has been + improved, that is by the continued selection of the fleetest individuals, + without any separation. But I admit that by this process two or more new + species could hardly be found within the same limited area; some degree of + separation, if not indispensable, would be highly advantageous; and here + your facts and views will be of great value... + </p> + <p> + [The following letter bears on the same subject. It refers to Professor M. + Wagner's Essay, published in "Das Ausland", May 31, 1875:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MORITZ WAGNER. Down, October 13, 1876. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now finished reading your essays, which have interested me in a + very high degree, notwithstanding that I differ much from you on various + points. For instance, several considerations make me doubt whether species + are much more variable at one period than at another, except through the + agency of changed conditions. I wish, however, that I could believe in + this doctrine, as it removes many difficulties. But my strongest objection + to your theory is that it does not explain the manifold adaptations in + structure in every organic being—for instance in a Picus for + climbing trees and catching insects—or in a Strix for catching + animals at night, and so on ad infinitum. No theory is in the least + satisfactory to me unless it clearly explains such adaptations. I think + that you misunderstand my views on isolation. I believe that all the + individuals of a species can be slowly modified within the same district, + in nearly the same manner as man effects by what I have called the process + of unconscious selection... I do not believe that one species will give + birth to two or more new species as long as they are mingled together + within the same district. Nevertheless I cannot doubt that many new + species have been simultaneously developed within the same large + continental area; and in my 'Origin of Species' I endeavoured to explain + how two new species might be developed, although they met and intermingled + on the BORDERS of their range. It would have been a strange fact if I had + overlooked the importance of isolation, seeing that it was such cases as + that of the Galapagos Archipelago, which chiefly led me to study the + origin of species. In my opinion the greatest error which I have + committed, has been not allowing sufficient weight to the direct action of + the environment, i.e. food, climate, etc., independently of natural + selection. Modifications thus caused, which are neither of advantage nor + disadvantage to the modified organism, would be especially favoured, as I + can now see chiefly through your observations, by isolation in a small + area, where only a few individuals lived under nearly uniform conditions. + </p> + <p> + When I wrote the 'Origin,' and for some years afterwards, I could find + little good evidence of the direct action of the environment; now there is + a large body of evidence, and your case of the Saturnia is one of the most + remarkable of which I have heard. Although we differ so greatly, I hope + that you will permit me to express my respect for your long-continued and + successful labours in the good cause of natural science. + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Sir, yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The two following letters are also of interest as bearing on my father's + views on the action of isolation as regards the origin of new species:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO K. SEMPER. Down, November 26, 1878. + </p> + <p> + My dear Professor Semper, + </p> + <p> + When I published the sixth edition of the 'Origin,' I thought a good deal + on the subject to which you refer, and the opinion therein expressed was + my deliberate conviction. I went as far as I could, perhaps too far in + agreement with Wagner; since that time I have seen no reason to change my + mind, but then I must add that my attention has been absorbed on other + subjects. There are two different classes of cases, as it appears to me, + viz. those in which a species becomes slowly modified in the same country + (of which I cannot doubt there are innumerable instances) and those cases + in which a species splits into two or three or more new species, and in + the latter case, I should think nearly perfect separation would greatly + aid in their "specification," to coin a new word. + </p> + <p> + I am very glad that you are taking up this subject, for you will be sure + to throw much light on it. I remember well, long ago, oscillating much; + when I thought of the Fauna and Flora of the Galapagos Islands I was all + for isolation, when I thought of S. America I doubted much. Pray believe + me, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, + </p> + <p> + CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I hope that this letter will not be quite illegible, but I have + no amanuensis at present. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO K. SEMPER. Down, November 30, 1878. + </p> + <p> + Dear Professor Semper, + </p> + <p> + Since writing I have recalled some of the thoughts and conclusions which + have passed through my mind of late years. In North America, in going from + north to south or from east to west, it is clear that the changed + conditions of life have modified the organisms in the different regions, + so that they now form distinct races or even species. It is further clear + that in isolated districts, however small, the inhabitants almost always + get slightly modified, and how far this is due to the nature of the + slightly different conditions to which they are exposed, and how far to + mere interbreeding, in the manner explained by Weismann, I can form no + opinion. The same difficulty occurred to me (as shown in my 'Variation of + Animals and Plants under Domestication') with respect to the aboriginal + breeds of cattle, sheep, etc., in the separated districts of Great + Britain, and indeed throughout Europe. As our knowledge advances, very + slight differences, considered by systematists as of no importance in + structure, are continually found to be functionally important; and I have + been especially struck with this fact in the case of plants to which my + observations have of late years been confined. Therefore it seems to me + rather rash to consider the slight differences between representative + species, for instance those inhabiting the different islands of the same + archipelago, as of no functional importance, and as not in any way due to + natural selection. With respect to all adapted structures, and these are + innumerable, I cannot see how M. Wagner's view throws any light, nor + indeed do I see at all more clearly than I did before, from the numerous + cases which he has brought forward, how and why it is that a long isolated + form should almost always become slightly modified. I do not know whether + you will care about hearing my further opinion on the point in question, + for as before remarked I have not attended much of late years to such + questions, thinking it prudent, now that I am growing old, to work at + easier subjects. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + I hope and trust that you will throw light on these points. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I will add another remark which I remember occurred to me when + I first read M. Wagner. When a species first arrives on a small island, it + will probably increase rapidly, and unless all the individuals change + instantaneously (which is improbable in the highest degree), the slowly, + more or less, modifying offspring must intercross one with another, and + with their unmodified parents, and any offspring not as yet modified. The + case will then be like that of domesticated animals which have slowly + become modified, either by the action of the external conditions or by the + process which I have called the UNCONSCIOUS SELECTION by man—i.e., + in contrast with methodical selection. + </p> + <p> + [The letters continue the history of the year 1872, which has been + interrupted by a digression on Isolation.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THE MARQUIS DE SAPORTA. Down, April 8, 1872. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you very sincerely and feel much honoured by the trouble which you + have taken in giving me your reflections on the origin of Man. It + gratifies me extremely that some parts of my work have interested you, and + that we agree on the main conclusion of the derivation of man from some + lower form. + </p> + <p> + I will reflect on what you have said, but I cannot at present give up my + belief in the close relationship of Man to the higher Simiae. I do not put + much trust in any single character, even that of dentition; but I put the + greatest faith in resemblances in many parts of the whole organisation, + for I cannot believe that such resemblances can be due to any cause except + close blood relationship. That man is closely allied to the higher Simiae + is shown by the classification of Linnaeus, who was so good a judge of + affinity. The man who in England knows most about the structure of the + Simiae, namely, Mr. Mivart, and who is bitterly opposed to my doctrines + about the derivation of the mental powers, yet has publicly admitted that + I have not put man too close to the higher Simiae, as far as bodily + structure is concerned. I do not think the absence of reversions of + structure in man is of much weight; C. Vogt, indeed, argues that [the + existence of] Micr-cephalous idiots is a case of reversion. No one who + believes in Evolution will doubt that the Phocae are descended from some + terrestrial Carnivore. Yet no one would expect to meet with any such + reversion in them. The lesser divergence of character in the races of man + in comparison with the species of Simiadae may perhaps be accounted for by + man having spread over the world at a much later period than did the + Simiadae. I am fully prepared to admit the high antiquity of man; but then + we have evidence, in the Dryopithecus, of the high antiquity of the + Anthropomorphous Simiae. + </p> + <p> + I am glad to hear that you are at work on your fossil plants, which of + late years have afforded so rich a field for discovery. With my best + thanks for your great kindness, and with much respect, I remain, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In April, 1872, he was elected to the Royal Society of Holland, and wrote + to Professor Donders:— + </p> + <p> + "Very many thanks for your letter. The honour of being elected a foreign + member of your Royal Society has pleased me much. The sympathy of his + fellow workers has always appeared to me by far the highest reward to + which any scientific man can look. My gratification has been not a little + increased by first hearing of the honour from you."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO CHAUNCEY WRIGHT. Down, June 3, 1872. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for your article (The proof-sheets of an article which + appeared in the July number of the 'North American Review.' It was a + rejoinder to Mr. Mivart's reply ('North American Review,' April 1872) to + Mr. Chauncey Wright's pamphlet. Chauncey Wright says of it ('Letters,' + page 238):—"It is not properly a rejoinder but a new article, + repeating and expounding some of the points of my pamphlet, and answering + some of Mr. Mivart's replies incidentally.") in the 'North American + Review,' which I have read with great interest. Nothing can be clearer + than the way in which you discuss the permanence or fixity of species. It + never occurred to me to suppose that any one looked at the case as it + seems Mr. Mivart does. Had I read his answer to you, perhaps I should have + perceived this; but I have resolved to waste no more time in reading + reviews of my works or on Evolution, excepting when I hear that they are + good and contain new matter... It is pretty clear that Mr. Mivart has come + to the end of his tether on this subject. + </p> + <p> + As your mind is so clear, and as you consider so carefully the meaning of + words, I wish you would take some incidental occasion to consider when a + thing may properly be said to be effected by the will of man. I have been + led to the wish by reading an article by your Professor Whitney versus + Schleicher. He argues, because each step of change in language is made by + the will of man, the whole language so changes; but I do not think that + this is so, as man has no intention or wish to change the language. It is + a parallel case with what I have called "unconscious selection," which + depends on men consciously preserving the best individuals, and thus + unconsciously altering the breed. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Not long afterwards (September) Mr. Chauncey Wright paid a visit to Down + (Mr. and Mrs. C.L. Brace, who had given much of their lives to + philanthropic work in New York, also paid a visit at Down in this summer. + Some of their work is recorded in Mr. Brace's 'The Dangerous Classes of + New York,' and of this book my father wrote to the author:— + </p> + <p> + "Since you were here my wife has read aloud to me more than half of your + work, and it has interested us both in the highest degree, and we shall + read every word of the remainder. The facts seem to me very well told, and + the inferences very striking. But after all this is but a weak part of the + impression left on our minds by what we have read; for we are both filled + with earnest admiration at the heroic labours of yourself and others."), + which he described in a letter ('Letters, page 246-248.) to Miss S. + Sedgwick (now Mrs. William Darwin): "If you can imagine me enthusiastic—absolutely + and unqualifiedly so, without a BUT or criticism, then think of my last + evening's and this morning's talks with Mr. Darwin... I was never so + worked up in my life, and did not sleep many hours under the hospitable + roof... It would be quite impossible to give by way of report any idea of + these talks before and at and after dinner, at breakfast, and at + leav-taking; and yet I dislike the egotism of 'testifying' like other + religious enthusiasts, without any verification, or hint of similar + experience."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO HERBERT SPENCER. Bassett, Southampton, June + 10, [1872]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Spencer, + </p> + <p> + I dare say you will think me a foolish fellow, but I cannot resist the + wish to express my unbounded admiration of your article ('Mr. Martineau on + Evolution,' by Herbert Spencer, 'Contemporary Review,' July 1872.) in + answer to Mr. Martineau. It is, indeed, admirable, and hardly less so your + second article on Sociology (which, however, I have not yet finished): I + never believed in the reigning influence of great men on the world's + progress; but if asked why I did not believe, I should have been sorely + perplexed to have given a good answer. Every one with eyes to see and ears + to hear (the number, I fear, are not many) ought to bow their knee to you, + and I for one do. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours most sincerely, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, July 12 [1872]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I must exhale and express my joy at the way in which the newspapers have + taken up your case. I have seen the "Times", the "Daily News", and the + "Pall Mall", and hear that others have taken up the case. + </p> + <p> + The Memorial has done great good this way, whatever may be the result in + the action of our wretched Government. On my soul, it is enough to make + one turn into an old honest Tory... + </p> + <p> + If you answer this, I shall be sorry that I have relieved my feelings by + writing. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The memorial here referred to was addressed to Mr. Gladstone, and was + signed by a number of distinguished men, including Sir Charles Lyell, Mr. + Bentham, Mr. Huxley, and Sir James Paget. It gives a complete account of + the arbitrary and unjust treatment received by Sir J.D. Hooker at the + hands of his official chief, the First Commissioner of Works. The document + is published in full in 'Nature' (July 11, 1872), and is well worth + studying as an example of the treatment which it is possible for science + to receive from officialism. As 'Nature' observes, it is a paper which + must be read with the greatest indignation by scientific men in every part + of the world, and with shame by all Englishmen. The signatories of the + memorial conclude by protesting against the expected consequences of Sir + Joseph Hooker's persecution—namely his resignation, and the loss of + "a man honoured for his integrity, beloved for his courtesy and kindliness + of heart; and who has spent in the public service not only a stainless but + an illustrious life." + </p> + <p> + Happily this misfortune was averted, and Sir Joseph was freed from further + molestation.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, August 3 [1872]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I hate controversy, chiefly perhaps because I do it badly; but as Dr. Bree + accuses you (Mr. Wallace had reviewed Dr. Bree's book, 'An Exposition of + Fallacies in the Hypothesis of Mr. Darwin,' in 'Nature,' July 25, 1872.) + of "blundering," I have thought myself bound to send the enclosed letter + (The letter is as follows:—"Bree on Darwinism." 'Nature,' August 8, + 1872. Permit me to state—though the statement is almost superfluous—that + Mr. Wallace, in his review of Dr. Bree's work, gives with perfect + correctness what I intended to express, and what I believe was expressed + clearly, with respect to the probable position of man in the early part of + his pedigree. As I have not seen Dr. Bree's recent work, and as his letter + is unintelligible to me, I cannot even conjecture how he has so completely + mistaken my meaning: but, perhaps, no one who has read Mr. Wallace's + article, or who has read a work formerly published by Dr. Bree on the same + subject as his recent one, will be surprised at any amount of + misunderstanding on his part.—Charles Darwin. August 3.) to + 'Nature,' that is if you in the least desire it. In this case please post + it. If you do not AT ALL wish it, I should rather prefer not sending it, + and in this case please to tear it up. And I beg you to do the same, if + you intend answering Dr. Bree yourself, as you will do it incomparably + better than I should. Also please tear it up if you don't like the letter. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. Down, August 28, 1872. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I have at last finished the gigantic job of reading Dr. Bastian's book + ('The Beginnings of Life.' H.C. Bastian, 1872.) and have been deeply + interested by it. You wished to hear my impression, but it is not worth + sending. + </p> + <p> + He seems to me an extremely able man, as, indeed, I thought when I read + his first essay. His general argument in favour of Archebiosis (That is to + say, Spontaneous Generation. For the distinction between Archebiosis and + Heterogenesis, see Bastian, chapter vi.) is wonderfully strong, though I + cannot think much of some few of his arguments. The result is that I am + bewildered and astonished by his statements, but am not convinced, though, + on the whole, it seems to me probable that Archebiosis is true. I am not + convinced, partly I think owing to the deductive cast of much of his + reasoning; and I know not why, but I never feel convinced by deduction, + even in the case of H. Spencer's writings. If Dr. Bastian's book had been + turned upside down, and he had begun with the various cases of + Heterogenesis, and then gone on to organic, and afterwards to saline + solutions, and had then given his general arguments, I should have been, I + believe, much more influenced. I suspect, however, that my chief + difficulty is the effect of old convictions being stereotyped on my brain. + I must have more evidence that germs, or the minutest fragments of the + lowest forms, are always killed by 212 degrees of Fahr. Perhaps the mere + reiteration of the statements given by Dr. Bastian [by] other men, whose + judgment I respect, and who have worked long on the lower organisms, would + suffice to convince me. Here is a fine confession of intellectual + weakness; but what an inexplicable frame of mind is that of belief! + </p> + <p> + As for Rotifers and Tardigrades being spontaneously generated, my mind can + no more digest such statements, whether true or false, than my stomach can + digest a lump of lead. Dr. Bastian is always comparing Archebiosis, as + well as growth, to crystallisation; but, on this view, a Rotifer or + Tardigrade is adapted to its humble conditions of life by a happy + accident, and this I cannot believe... He must have worked with very + impure materials in some cases, as plenty of organisms appeared in a + saline solution not containing an atom of nitrogen. + </p> + <p> + I wholly disagree with Dr. Bastian about many points in his latter + chapters. Thus the frequency of generalised forms in the older strata + seems to me clearly to indicate the common descent with divergence of more + recent forms. Notwithstanding all his sneers, I do not strike my colours + as yet about Pangenesis. I should like to live to see Archebiosis proved + true, for it would be a discovery of transcendent importance; or, if + false, I should like to see it disproved, and the facts otherwise + explained; but I shall not live to see all this. If ever proved, Dr. + Bastian will have taken a prominent part in the work. How grand is the + onward rush of science; it is enough to console us for the many errors + which we have committed, and for our efforts being overlaid and forgotten + in the mass of new facts and new views which are daily turning up. + </p> + <p> + This is all I have to say about Dr. Bastian's book, and it certainly has + not been worth saying... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. DE CANDOLLE. Down, December 11, 1872. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I began reading your new book ('Histoire des Sciences et des Savants.' + 1873.) sooner than I intended, and when I once began, I could not stop; + and now you must allow me to thank you for the very great pleasure which + it has given me. I have hardly ever read anything more original and + interesting than your treatment of the causes which favour the development + of scientific men. The whole was quite new to me, and most curious. When I + began your essay I was afraid that you were going to attack the principle + of inheritance in relation to mind, but I soon found myself fully content + to follow you and accept your limitations. I have felt, of course, special + interest in the latter part of your work, but there was here less novelty + to me. In many parts you do me much honour, and everywhere more than + justice. Authors generally like to hear what points most strike different + readers, so I will mention that of your shorter essays, that on the future + prevalence of languages, and on vaccination interested me the most, as, + indeed, did that on statistics, and free will. Great liability to certain + diseases, being probably liable to atavism, is quite a new idea to me. At + page 322 you suggest that a young swallow ought to be separated, and then + let loose in order to test the power of instinct; but nature annually + performs this experiment, as old cuckoos migrate in England some weeks + before the young birds of the same year. By the way, I have just used the + forbidden word "nature," which, after reading your essay, I almost + determined never to use again. There are very few remarks in your book to + which I demur, but when you back up Asa Gray in saying that all instincts + are congenital habits, I must protest. + </p> + <p> + Finally, will you permit me to ask you a question: have you yourself, or + some one who can be quite trusted, observed (page 322) that the + butterflies on the Alps are tamer than those on the lowlands? Do they + belong to the same species? Has this fact been observed with more than one + species? Are they brightly coloured kinds? I am especially curious about + their alighting on the brightly coloured parts of ladies' dresses, more + especially because I have been more than once assured that butterflies + like bright colours, for instance, in India the scarlet leaves of + Poinsettia. + </p> + <p> + Once again allow me to thank you for having sent me your work, and for the + very unusual amount of pleasure which I have received in reading it. + </p> + <p> + With much respect, I remain, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The last revise of the 'Expression of the Emotions' was finished on + August 22nd, 1872, and he wrote in his Diary:—"Has taken me about + twelve months." As usual he had no belief in the possibility of the book + being generally successful. The following passage in a letter to Haeckel + gives the impression that he had felt the writing of this book as a + somewhat severe strain:— + </p> + <p> + "I have finished my little book on 'Expression,' and when it is published + in November I will of course send you a copy, in case you would like to + read it for amusement. I have resumed some old botanical work, and perhaps + I shall never again attempt to discuss theoretical views. + </p> + <p> + "I am growing old and weak, and no man can tell when his intellectual + powers begin to fail. Long life and happiness to you for your own sake and + for that of science." + </p> + <p> + It was published in the autumn. The edition consisted of 7000, and of + these 5267 copies were sold at Mr. Murray's sale in November. Two thousand + were printed at the end of the year, and this proved a misfortune, as they + did not afterwards sell so rapidly, and thus a mass of notes collected by + the author was never employed for a second edition during his lifetime. + </p> + <p> + Among the reviews of the 'Expression of the Emotions' may be mentioned the + unfavourable notices in the "Athenaeum", November 9, 1872, and the + "Times", December 13, 1872. A good review by Mr. Wallace appeared in the + 'Quarterly Journal of Science,' January 1873. Mr. Wallace truly remarks + that the book exhibits certain "characteristics of the author's mind in an + eminent degree," namely, "the insatiable longing to discover the causes of + the varied and complex phenomena presented by living things." He adds that + in the case of the author "the restless curiosity of the child to know the + 'what for?' the 'why?' and the 'how?' of everything" seems "never to have + abated its force." + </p> + <p> + A writer in one of the theological reviews describes the book as the most + "powerful and insidious" of all the author's works. + </p> + <p> + Professor Alexander Bain criticised the book in a postscript to the + 'Senses and the Intellect;' to this essay the following letter refers:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ALEXANDER BAIN. Down, October 9, 1873. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am particularly obliged to you for having send me your essay. Your + criticisms are all written in a quite fair spirit, and indeed no one who + knows you or your works would expect anything else. What you say about the + vagueness of what I have called the direct action of the nervous system, + is perfectly just. I felt it so at the time, and even more of late. I + confess that I have never been able fully to grasp your principle of + spontaneity, as well as some other of your points, so as to apply them to + special cases. But as we look at everything from different points of view, + it is not likely that we should agree closely. (Professor Bain expounded + his theory of Spontaneity in the essay here alluded to. It would be + impossible to do justice to it within the limits of a foot-note. The + following quotations may give some notion of it:— + </p> + <p> + "By Spontaneity I understand the readiness to pass into movement in the + absence of all stimulation whatever; the essential requisite being that + the nerve-centres and muscles shall be fresh and vigorous... The + gesticulations and the carols of young and active animals are mere + overflow of nervous energy; and although they are very apt to concur with + pleasing emotion, they have an independent source... They are not properly + movements of expression; they express nothing at all except an abundant + stock of physical power.") + </p> + <p> + I have been greatly pleased by what you say about the crying expression + and about blushing. Did you read a review in a late 'Edinburgh?' (The + review on the 'Expression of the Emotions' appeared in the April number of + the 'Edinburgh Review,' 1873. The opening sentence is a fair sample of the + general tone of the article: "Mr. Darwin has added another volume of + amusing stories and grotesque illustrations to the remarkable series of + works already devoted to the exposition and defence of the evolutionary + hypothesis." A few other quotations may be worth giving. "His one-sided + devotion to an a priori scheme of interpretation seems thus steadily + tending to impair the author's hitherto unrivalled powers as an observer. + However this may be, most impartial critics will, we think, admit that + there is a marked falling off both in philosophical tone and scientific + interest in the works produced since Mr. Darwin committed himself to the + crude metaphysical conception so largely associated with his name." The + article is directed against Evolution as a whole, almost as much as + against the doctrines of the book under discussion. We find throughout + plenty of that effective style of criticism which consists in the use of + such expressions as "dogmatism," "intolerance," "presumptuous," + "arrogant." Together with accusations of such various faults a "virtual + abandonment of the inductive method," and the use of slang and vulgarisms. + </p> + <p> + The part of the article which seems to have interested my father is the + discussion on the use which he ought to have made of painting and + sculpture.) It was magnificently contemptuous towards myself and many + others. + </p> + <p> + I retain a very pleasant recollection of our sojourn together at that + delightful place, Moor Park. + </p> + <p> + With my renewed thanks, I remain, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MRS. HALIBURTON. (Mrs. Haliburton was a + daughter of my father's old friend, Mr. Owen of Woodhouse. Her husband, + Judge Haliburton, was the well-known author of 'Sam Slick.') Down, + November 1 [1872]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mrs. Haliburton, + </p> + <p> + I dare say you will be surprised to hear from me. My object in writing now + is to say that I have just published a book on the 'Expression of the + Emotions in Man and Animals;' and it has occurred to me that you might + possibly like to read some parts of it; and I can hardly think that this + would have been the case with any of the books which I have already + published. So I send by this post my present book. Although I have had no + communication with you or the other members of your family for so long a + time, no scenes in my whole life pass so frequently or so vividly before + my mind as those which relate to happy old days spent at Woodhouse. I + should very much like to hear a little news about yourself and the other + members of your family, if you will take the trouble to write to me. + Formerly I used to glean some news about you from my sisters. + </p> + <p> + I have had many years of bad health and have not been able to visit + anywhere; and now I feel very old. As long as I pass a perfectly uniform + life, I am able to do some daily work in Natural History, which is still + my passion, as it was in old days, when you used to laugh at me for + collecting beetles with such zeal at Woodhouse. Excepting from my + continued il-health, which has excluded me from society, my life has been + a very happy one; the greatest drawback being that several of my children + have inherited from me feeble health. I hope with all my heart that you + retain, at least to a large extent, the famous "Owen constitution." With + sincere feelings of gratitude and affection for all bearing the name of + Owen, I venture to sign myself, + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MRS. HALIBURTON. Down, November 6 [1872]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sarah, + </p> + <p> + I have been very much pleased by your letter, which I must call charming. + I hardly ventured to think that you would have retained a friendly + recollection of me for so many years. Yet I ought to have felt assured + that you would remain as warm-hearted and as true-hearted as you have ever + been from my earliest recollection. I know well how many grievous sorrows + you have gone through; but I am very sorry to hear that your health is not + good. In the spring or summer, when the weather is better, if you can + summon up courage to pay us a visit here, both my wife, as she desires me + to say, and myself, would be truly glad to see you, and I know that you + would not care about being rather dull here. It would be a real pleasure + to me to see you.—Thank you much for telling about your family,—much + of which was new to me. How kind you all were to me as a boy, and you + especially, and how much happiness I owe to you. Believe me your + affectionate and obliged friend, + </p> + <p> + CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Perhaps you would like to see a photograph of me now that I am + old. + </p> + <p> + 1873. + </p> + <p> + [The only work (other than botanical) of this year was the preparation of + a second edition of the 'Descent of Man,' the publication of which is + referred to in the following chapter. This work was undertaken much + against the grain, as he was at the time deeply immersed in the manuscript + of 'Insectivorous Plants.' Thus he wrote to Mr. Wallace (November 19), "I + never in my lifetime regretted an interruption so much as this new edition + of the 'Descent.'" And later (in December) he wrote to Mr. Huxley: "The + new edition of the 'Descent' has turned out an awful job. It took me ten + days merely to glance over letters and reviews with criticisms and new + facts. It is a devil of a job." + </p> + <p> + The work was continued until April 1, 1874, when he was able to return to + his much loved Drosera. He wrote to Mr. Murray:— + </p> + <p> + "I have at last finished, after above three months as hard work as I have + ever had in my life, a corrected edition of the 'Descent,' and I much wish + to have it printed off as soon as possible. As it is to be stereotyped I + shall never touch it again." + </p> + <p> + The first of the miscellaneous letters of 1873 refers to a pleasant visit + received from Colonel Higginson of Newport, U.S.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THOS. WENTWORTH HIGGINSON. Down, February 27th + [1873]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My wife has just finished reading aloud your 'Life with a Black Regiment,' + and you must allow me to thank you heartily for the very great pleasure + which it has in many ways given us. I always thought well of the negroes, + from the little which I have seen of them; and I have been delighted to + have my vague impressions confirmed, and their character and mental powers + so ably discussed. When you were here I did not know of the noble position + which you had filled. I had formerly read about the black regiments, but + failed to connect your name with your admirable undertaking. Although we + enjoyed greatly your visit to Down, my wife and myself have over and over + again regretted that we did not know about the black regiment, as we + should have greatly liked to have heard a little about the South from your + own lips. + </p> + <p> + Your descriptions have vividly recalled walks taken forty years ago in + Brazil. We have your collected Essays, which were kindly sent us by Mr. + [Moncure] Conway, but have not yet had time to read them. I occasionally + glean a little news of you in the 'Index'; and within the last hour have + read an interesting article of yours on the progress of Free Thought. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear sir, with sincere admiration, Yours very faithfully, + CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [On May 28th he sent the following answers to the questions that Mr. + Galton was at that time addressing to various scientific men, in the + course of the inquiry which is given in his 'English Men of Science, their + Nature and Nurture,' 1874. With regard to the questions my father wrote, + "I have filled up the answers as well as I could, but it is simply + impossible for me to estimate the degrees." For the sake of convenience, + the questions and answers relating to "Nurture" are made to precede those + on "Nature": + </p> + <p> + NURTURE. EDUCATION? + </p> + <p> + How taught? I consider that all I have learnt of any value has been + sel-taught. + </p> + <p> + Conducive to or restrictive of habits of observation? Restrictive of + observation, being almost entirely classical. + </p> + <p> + Conducive to health or otherwise? Yes. + </p> + <p> + Peculiar merits? None whatever. + </p> + <p> + Chief omissions? No mathematics or modern languages, nor any habits of + observation or reasoning. + </p> + <p> + RELIGION. + </p> + <p> + Has the religious creed taught in your youth had any deterrent effect on + the freedom of your researches? No. + </p> + <p> + SCIENTIFIC TASTES. + </p> + <p> + Do your scientific tastes appear to have been innate? Certainly innate. + </p> + <p> + Were they determined by any and what events? My innate taste for natural + history strongly confirmed and directed by the voyage in the "Beagle". + </p> + <p> + NATURE. + </p> + <p> + Specify any interests that have been very actively pursued. Science, and + field sports to a passionate degree during youth. + </p> + <p> + (C.D. = CHARLES DARWIN, R.D. = ROBERT DARWIN, his father.) + </p> + <p> + RELIGION? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Nominally to Church of England. R.D.—Nominally to Church + of England. + </p> + <p> + POLITICS? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Liberal or Radical. R.D.—Liberal. + </p> + <p> + HEALTH? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Good when young—bad for last 33 years. R.D.—Good + throughout life, except from gout. + </p> + <p> + HEIGHT, ETC? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—6ft. Figure, etc.?—Spare, whilst young rather stout. + Measurement round inside of hat?—22 1/4 in. Colour of Hair?—Brown. + Complexion?—Rather sallow. R.D.—6ft. 2 in. Figure, etc?—Very + broad and corpulent. Colour of hair? —Brown. Complexion?—Ruddy. + </p> + <p> + TEMPERAMENT? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Somewhat nervous. R.D.—Sanguine. + </p> + <p> + ENERGY OF BODY, ETC.? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Energy shown by much activity, and whilst I had health, power + of resisting fatigue. I and one other man were alone able to fetch water + for a large party of officers and sailors utterly prostrated. Some of my + expeditions in S. America were adventurous. An early riser in the morning. + R.D.—Great power of endurance although feeling much fatigue, as + after consultations after long journeys; very active—not restless—very + early riser, no travels. My father said his father suffered much from + sense of fatigue, that he worked very hard. + </p> + <p> + ENERGY OF MIND, ETC.? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Shown by rigorous and long-continued work on same subject, as + 20 years on the 'Origin of Species,' and 9 years on 'Cirripedia.' R.D.—Habitually + very active mind—shown in conversation with a succession of people + during the whole day. + </p> + <p> + MEMORY? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Memory very bad for dates, and for learning by rote; but good + in retaining a general or vague recollection of many facts. R.D.—Wonderful + memory for dates. In old age he told a person, reading aloud to him a book + only read in youth, the passages which were coming—knew the + birthdays and death, etc., of all friends and acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + STUDIOUSNESS? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Very studious, but not large acquirements. R.D.—Not very + studious or mentally receptive, except for facts in conversation—great + collector of anecdotes. + </p> + <p> + INDEPENDENCE OF JUDGMENT? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—I think fairly independent; but I can give no instances. I gave + up common religious belief almost independently from my own reflections. + R.D.—Free thinker in religious matters. Liberal, with rather a + tendency to Toryism. + </p> + <p> + ORIGINALITY OR ECCENTRICITY? + </p> + <p> + C.D.— — Thinks this applies to me; I do not think so—i.e., + as far as eccentricity. I suppose that I have shown originality in + science, as I have made discoveries with regard to common objects. R.D.—Original + character, had great personal influence and power of producing fear of + himself in others. He kept his accounts with great care in a peculiar way, + in a number of separate little books, without any general ledger. + </p> + <p> + SPECIAL TALENTS? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—None, except for business as evinced by keeping accounts, + replies to correspondence, and investing money very well. Very methodical + in all my habits. R.D.—Practical business—made a large fortune + and incurred no losses. + </p> + <p> + STRONGLY MARKED MENTAL PECULIARITIES, BEARING ON SCIENTIFIC SUCCESS, AND + NOT SPECIFIED ABOVE? + </p> + <p> + C.D.—Steadiness—great curiosity about facts and their meaning. + Some love of the new and marvellous. R.D.—Strong social affection + and great sympathy in the pleasures of others. Sceptical as to new things. + Curious as to facts. Great foresight. Not much public spirit—great + generosity in giving money and assistance. + </p> + <p> + N.B.—I find it quite impossible to estimate my character by your + degrees. + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers inter alia to a letter which appeared in + 'Nature' (September 25, 1873), "On the Males and Complemental Males of + certain Cirripedes, and on Rudimentary Organs:"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E. HAECKEL. Down, September 25, 1873. + </p> + <p> + My dear Haeckel, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for the present of your book ('Schopfungs-geschichte,' 4th + edition. The translation ('The History of Creation') was not published + until 1876.), and I am heartily glad to see its great success. You will do + a wonderful amount of good in spreading the doctrine of Evolution, + supporting it as you do by so many original observations. I have read the + new preface with very great interest. The delay in the appearance of the + English translation vexes and surprises me, for I have never been able to + read it thoroughly in German, and I shall assuredly do so when it appears + in English. Has the problem of the later stages of reduction of useless + structures ever perplexed you? This problem has of late caused me much + perplexity. I have just written a letter to 'Nature' with a hypothetical + explanation of this difficulty, and I will send you the paper with the + passage marked. I will at the same time send a paper which has interested + me; it need not be returned. It contains a singular statement bearing on + so-called Spontaneous Generation. I much wish that this latter question + could be settled, but I see no prospect of it. If it could be proved true + this would be most important to us... + </p> + <p> + Wishing you every success in your admirable labours, + </p> + <p> + I remain, my dear Haeckel, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.VIII. — MISCELLANEA + </h2> + <p> + INCLUDING SECOND EDITIONS OF 'CORAL REEFS,' THE 'DESCENT OF MAN,' AND THE + 'VARIATION OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS.' + </p> + <p> + 1874 AND 1875. + </p> + <p> + [The year 1874 was given up to 'Insectivorous Plants,' with the exception + of the months devoted to the second edition of the 'Descent of Man,' and + with the further exception of the time given to a second edition of his + 'Coral Reefs' (1874). The Preface to the latter states that new facts have + been added, the whole book revised, and "the latter chapters almost + rewritten." In the Appendix some account is given of Professor Semper's + objections, and this was the occasion of correspondence between that + naturalist and my father. In Professor Semper's volume, 'Animal Life' (one + of the International Series), the author calls attention to the subject in + the following passage which I give in German, the published English + translation being, as it seems to me, incorrect: "Es scheint mir als ob er + in der zweiten Ausgabe seines allgemein bekannten Werks uber Korallenriffe + einem Irrthume uber meine Beobachtungen zum Opfer gefallen ist, indem er + die Angaben, die ich allerdings bisher immer nur sehr kurz gehalten hatte, + vollstandig falsch wiedergegeben hat." + </p> + <p> + The proof-sheets containing this passage were sent by Professor Semper to + my father before 'Animal Life' was published, and this was the occasion + for the following letter, which was afterwards published in Professor + Semper's book.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO K. SEMPER. Down, October 2, 1879. + </p> + <p> + My dear Professor Semper, + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your extremely kind letter of the 19th, and for the + proo-sheets. I believe that I understand all, excepting one or two + sentences, where my imperfect knowledge of German has interfered. This is + my sole and poor excuse for the mistake which I made in the second edition + of my 'Coral' book. Your account of the Pellew Islands is a fine addition + to our knowledge on coral reefs. I have very little to say on the subject, + even if I had formerly read your account and seen your maps, but had known + nothing of the proofs of recent elevation, and of your belief that the + islands have not since subsided. I have no doubt that I should have + considered them as formed during subsidence. But I should have been much + troubled in my mind by the sea not being so deep as it usually is round + atolls, and by the reef on one side sloping so gradually beneath the sea; + for this latter fact, as far as my memory serves me, is a very unusual and + almost unparalleled case. I always foresaw that a bank at the proper depth + beneath the surface would give rise to a reef which could not be + distinguished from an atoll, formed during subsidence. I must still adhere + to my opinion that the atolls and barrier reefs in the middle of the + Pacific and Indian Oceans indicate subsidence; but I fully agree with you + that such cases as that of the Pellew Islands, if of at all frequent + occurrence, would make my general conclusions of very little value. Future + observers must decide between us. It will be a strange fact if there has + not been subsidence of the beds of the great oceans, and if this has not + affected the forms of the coral reefs. + </p> + <p> + In the last three pages of the last sheet sent I am extremely glad to see + that you are going to treat of the dispersion of animals. Your preliminary + remarks seem to me quite excellent. There is nothing about M. Wagner, as I + expected to find. I suppose that you have seen Moseley's last book, which + contains some good observations on dispersion. + </p> + <p> + I am glad that your book will appear in English, for then I can read it + with ease. Pray believe me, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The most recent criticism on the Coral-reef theory is by Mr. Murray, one + of the staff of the "Challenger", who read a paper before the Royal + Society of Edinburgh, April 5, 1880. (An abstract is published in volume + x. of the 'Proceedings,' page 505, and in 'Nature,' August 12, 1880.) The + chief point brought forward is the possibility of the building up of + submarine mountains, which may serve as foundations for coral reefs. Mr. + Murray also seeks to prove that "the chief features of coral reefs and + islands can be accounted for without calling in the aid of great and + general subsidence." The following letter refers to this subject:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. AGASSIZ. Down, May 5, 1881. + </p> + <p> + ... You will have seen Mr. Murray's views on the formation of atolls and + barrier reefs. Before publishing my book, I thought long over the same + view, but only as far as ordinary marine organisms are concerned, for at + that time little was known of the multitude of minute oceanic organisms. I + rejected this view, as from the few dredgings made in the "Beagle", in the + south temperate regions, I concluded that shells, the smaller corals, + etc., decayed, and were dissolved, when not protected by the deposition of + sediment, and sediment could not accumulate in the open ocean. Certainly, + shells, etc., were in several cases completely rotten, and crumbled into + mud between my fingers; but you will know well whether this is in any + degree common. I have expressly said that a bank at the proper depth would + give rise to an atoll, which could not be distinguished from one formed + during subsidence. I can, however, hardly believe in the former presence + of as many banks (there having been no subsidence) as there are atolls in + the great oceans, within a reasonable depth, on which minute oceanic + organisms could have accumulated to the thickness of many hundred feet... + Pray forgive me for troubling you at such length, but it has occurred [to + me] that you might be disposed to give, after your wide experience, your + judgment. If I am wrong, the sooner I am knocked on the head and + annihilated so much the better. It still seems to me a marvellous thing + that there should not have been much, and long continued, subsidence in + the beds of the great oceans. I wish that some doubly rich millionaire + would take it into his head to have borings made in some of the Pacific + and Indian atolls, and bring home cores for slicing from a depth of 500 or + 600 feet... + </p> + <p> + [The second edition of the 'Descent of Man' was published in the autumn of + 1874. Some severe remarks on the "monistic hypothesis" appeared in the + July (The review necessarily deals with the first edition of the 'Descent + of Man.') number of the 'Quarterly Review' (page 45). The Reviewer + expresses his astonishment at the ignorance of certain elementary + distinctions and principles (e.g. with regard to the verbum mentale) + exhibited, among others, by Mr. Darwin, who does not exhibit the faintest + indication of having grasped them, yet a clear perception of them, and a + direct and detailed examination of his facts with regard to them, "was a + sine qua non for attempting, with a chance of success, the solution of the + mystery as to the descent of man." + </p> + <p> + Some further criticisms of a later date may be here alluded to. In the + 'Academy,' 1876 (pages 562, 587), appeared a review of Mr. Mivart's + 'Lessons from Nature,' by Mr. Wallace. When considering the part of Mr. + Mivart's book relating to Natural and Sexual Selection, Mr. Wallace says: + "In his violent attack on Mr. Darwin's theories our author uses unusually + strong language. Not content with mere argument, he expresses 'reprobation + of Mr. Darwin's views'; and asserts that though he (Mr. Darwin) has been + obliged, virtually, to give up his theory, it is still maintained by + Darwinians with 'unscrupulous audacity,' and the actual repudiation of it + concealed by the 'conspiracy of silence.'" Mr. Wallace goes on to show + that these charges are without foundation, and points out that, "if there + is one thing more than another for which Mr. Darwin is pre-eminent among + modern literary and scientific men, it is for his perfect literary + honesty, his self-abnegation in confessing himself wrong, and the eager + haste with which he proclaims and even magnifies small errors in his + works, for the most part discovered by himself." + </p> + <p> + The following extract from a letter to Mr. Wallace (June 17th) refers to + Mr. Mivart's statement ('Lessons from Nature,' page 144) that Mr. Darwin + at first studiously disguised his views as to the "bestiality of man":— + </p> + <p> + "I have only just heard of and procured your two articles in the Academy. + I thank you most cordially for your generous defence of me against Mr. + Mivart. In the 'Origin' I did not discuss the derivation of any one + species; but that I might not be accused of concealing my opinion, I went + out of my way, and inserted a sentence which seemed to me (and still so + seems) to disclose plainly my belief. This was quoted in my 'Descent of + Man.' Therefore it is very unjust,... of Mr. Mivart to accuse me of base + fraudulent concealment." + </p> + <p> + The letter which here follows is of interest in connection with the + discussion, in the 'Descent of Man,' on the origin of the musical sense in + man:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E. GURNEY. (Author of 'The Power of Sound.') + Down, July 8, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Gurney, + </p> + <p> + I have read your article ("Some disputed Points in Music."—'Fortnightly + Review,' July, 1876.) with much interest, except the latter part, which + soared above my ken. I am greatly pleased that you uphold my views to a + certain extent. Your criticism of the rasping noise made by insects being + necessarily rhythmical is very good; but though not made intentionally, it + may be pleasing to the females from the nerve cells being nearly similar + in function throughout the animal kingdom. With respect to your letter, I + believe that I understand your meaning, and agree with you. I never + supposed that the different degrees and kinds of pleasure derived from + different music could be explained by the musical powers of our semi-human + progenitors. Does not the fact that different people belonging to the same + civilised nation are very differently affected by the same music, almost + show that these diversities of taste and pleasure have been acquired + during their individual lives? Your simile of architecture seems to me + particularly good; for in this case the appreciation almost must be + individual, though possibly the sense of sublimity excited by a grand + cathedral, may have some connection with the vague feelings of terror and + superstition in our savage ancestors, when they entered a great cavern or + gloomy forest. I wish some one could analyse the feeling of sublimity. It + amuses me to think how horrified some high flying aesthetic men will be at + your encouraging such low degraded views as mine. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The letters which follow are of a miscellaneous interest. The first + extract (from a letter, January 18, 1874) refers to a spiritualistic + seance, held at Erasmus Darwin's house, 6 Queen Anne Street, under the + auspices of a well-known medium:] + </p> + <p> + "... We had grand fun, one afternoon, for George hired a medium, who made + the chairs, a flute, a bell, and candlestick, and fiery points jump about + in my brother's diningroom, in a manner that astounded every one, and took + away all their breaths. It was in the dark, but George and Hensleigh + Wedgwood held the medium's hands and feet on both sides all the time. I + found it so hot and tiring that I went away before all these astounding + miracles, or jugglery, took place. How the man could possibly do what was + done passes my understanding. I came downstairs, and saw all the chairs, + etc., on the table, which had been lifted over the heads of those sitting + round it. + </p> + <p> + The Lord have mercy on us all, if we have to believe in such rubbish. F. + Galton was there, and says it was a good seance..." + </p> + <p> + The Seance in question led to a smaller and more carefully organised one + being undertaken, at which Mr. Huxley was present, and on which he + reported to my father:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO PROFESSOR T.H. HUXLEY. Down, January 29 + [1874]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + It was very good of you to write so long an account. Though the seance did + tire you so much it was, I think, really worth the exertion, as the same + sort of things are done at all the seances, even at —'s; and now to + my mind an enormous weight of evidence would be requisite to make one + believe in anything beyond mere trickery... I am pleased to think that I + declared to all my family, the day before yesterday, that the more I + thought of all that I had heard happened at Queen Anne St., the more + convinced I was it was all imposture... my theory was that [the medium] + managed to get the two men on each side of him to hold each other's hands, + instead of his, and that he was thus free to perform his antics. I am very + glad that I issued my ukase to you to attend. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the spring of this year (1874) he read a book which gave him great + pleasure and of which he often spoke with admiration:—'The + Naturalist in Nicaragua,' by the late Thomas Belt. Mr. Belt, whose + untimely death may well be deplored by naturalists, was by profession an + Engineer, so that all his admirable observations in Natural History in + Nicaragua and elsewhere were the fruit of his leisure. The book is direct + and vivid in style and is full of description and suggestive discussions. + With reference to it my father wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "Belt I have read, and I am delighted that you like it so much, it appears + to me the best of all natural history journals which have ever been + published."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THE MARQUIS DE SAPORTA. Down, May 30, 1874. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have been very neglectful in not having sooner thanked you for your + kindness in having sent me your 'Etudes sur la Vegetation,' etc., and + other memoirs. I have read several of them with very great interest, and + nothing can be more important, in my opinion, than your evidence of the + extremely slow and gradual manner in which specific forms change. I + observe that M. A. De Candolle has lately quoted you on this head versus + Heer. I hope that you may be able to throw light on the question whether + such protean, or polymorphic forms, as those of Rubus, Hieracium, etc., at + the present day, are those which generate new species; as for myself, I + have always felt some doubt on this head. I trust that you may soon bring + many of your countrymen to believe in Evolution, and my name will then + perhaps cease to be scorned. With the most sincere respect, I remain, Dear + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 5 [1874]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I have now read your article (The article, "Charles Darwin," in the series + of "Scientific Worthies" ('Nature,' June 4, 1874). This admirable estimate + of my father's work in science is given in the form of a comparison and + contrast between Robert Brown and Charles Darwin.) in 'Nature,' and the + last two paragraphs were not included in the slip sent before. I wrote + yesterday and cannot remember exactly what I said, and now cannot be easy + without again telling you how profoundly I have been gratified. Every one, + I suppose, occasionally thinks that he has worked in vain, and when one of + these fits overtakes me, I will think of your article, and if that does + not dispel the evil spirit, I shall know that I am at the time a little + bit insane, as we all are occasionally. + </p> + <p> + What you say about Teleology ("Let us recognise Darwin's great service to + Natural Science in bringing back to it Teleology: so that instead of + Morphology versus Teleology, we shall have Morphology wedded to + Teleology.") pleases me especially, and I do not think any one else has + ever noticed the point. (See, however, Mr. Huxley's chapter on the + 'Reception of the Origin of Species' in volume i.) I have always said you + were the man to hit the nail on the head. + </p> + <p> + Yours gratefully and affectionately, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [As a contribution to the history of the reception of the 'Origin of + Species,' the meeting of the British Association in 1874, at Belfast, + should be mentioned. It is memorable for Professor Tyndall's brilliant + presidential address, in which a sketch of the history of Evolution is + given culminating in an eloquent analysis of the 'Origin of Species,' and + of the nature of its great success. With regard to Prof. Tyndall's + address, Lyell wrote ('Life,' ii. page 455) congratulating my father on + the meeting, "on which occasion you and your theory of Evolution may be + fairly said to have had an ovation." In the same letter Sir Charles speaks + of a paper (On the Ancient Volcanoes of the Highlands, 'Journal of + Geological Soc.,' 1874.) of Professor Judd's, and it is to this that the + following letter refers:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. LYELL. Down, September 23, 1874. + </p> + <p> + My dear Lyell, + </p> + <p> + I suppose that you have returned, or will soon return, to London (Sir + Charles Lyell returned from Scotland towards the end of September.); and, + I hope, reinvigorated by your outing. In your last letter you spoke of Mr. + Judd's paper on the Volcanoes of the Hebrides. I have just finished it, + and to ease my mind must express my extreme admiration. + </p> + <p> + It is years since I have read a purely geological paper which has + interested me so greatly. I was all the more interested, as in the + Cordillera I often speculated on the sources of the deluges of submarine + porphyritic lavas, of which they are built; and, as I have stated, I saw + to a certain extent the causes of the obliteration of the points of + eruption. I was also not a little pleased to see my volcanic book quoted, + for I thought it was completely dead and forgotten. What fine work will + Mr. Judd assuredly do!... Now I have eased my mind; and so farewell, with + both E.D.'s and C.D.'s very kind remembrances to Miss Lyell. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Sir Charles Lyell's reply to the above letter must have been one of the + latest that my father received from his old friend, and it is with this + letter that the volumes of his published correspondence closes.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO AUG. FOREL. Down, October 15, 1874. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now read the whole of your admirable work ('Les Fourmis de la + Suisse,' 4to, 1874.) and seldom in my life have I been more interested by + any book. There are so many interesting facts and discussions, that I + hardly know which to specify; but I think, firstly, the newest points to + me have been about the size of the brain in the three sexes, together with + your suggestion that increase of mind power may have led to the sterility + of the workers. Secondly about the battles of the ants, and your curious + account of the enraged ants being held by their comrades until they calmed + down. Thirdly, the evidence of ants of the same community being the + offspring of brothers and sisters. You admit, I think, that new + communities will often be the product of a cross between not-related ants. + Fritz Muller has made some interesting observations on this head with + respect to Termites. The case of Anergates is most perplexing in many + ways, but I have such faith in the law of occasional crossing that I + believe an explanation will hereafter be found, such as the dimorphism of + either sex and the occasional production of winged males. I see that you + are puzzled how ants of the same community recognize each other; I once + placed two (F. rufa) in a pill-box smelling strongly of asafoetida and + after a day returned them to their homes; they were threatened, but at + last recognized. I made the trial thinking that they might know each other + by their odour; but this cannot have been the case, and I have often + fancied that they must have some common signal. Your last chapter is one + great mass of wonderful facts and suggestions, and the whole profoundly + interesting. I have seldom been more gratified than by [your] honourable + mention of my work. + </p> + <p> + I should like to tell you one little observation which I made with care + many years ago; I saw ants (Formica rufa) carrying cocoons from a nest + which was the largest I ever saw and which was well-known to all the + country people near, and an old man, apparently about eighty years of age, + told me that he had known it ever since he was a boy. The ants carrying + the cocoons did not appear to be emigrating; following the line, I saw + many ascending a tall fir tree still carrying their cocoons. But when I + looked closely I found that all the cocoons were empty cases. This + astonished me, and next day I got a man to observe with me, and we again + saw ants bringing empty cocoons out of the nest; each of us fixed on one + ant and slowly followed it, and repeated the observation on many others. + We thus found that some ants soon dropped their empty cocoons; others + carried them for many yards, as much as thirty paces, and others carried + them high up the fir tree out of sight. Now here I think we have one + instinct in contest with another and mistaken one. The first instinct + being to carry the empty cocoons out of the nest, and it would have been + sufficient to have laid them on the heap of rubbish, as the first breath + of wind would have blown them away. And then came in the contest with the + other very powerful instinct of preserving and carrying their cocoons as + long as possible; and this they could not help doing although the cocoons + were empty. According as the one or other instinct was the stronger in + each individual ant, so did it carry the empty cocoon to a greater or less + distance. If this little observation should ever prove of any use to you, + you are quite at liberty to use it. Again thanking you cordially for the + great pleasure which your work has given me, I remain with much respect, + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—If you read English easily I should like to send you Mr. Belt's + book, as I think you would like it as much as did Fritz Muller. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. FISKE. Down, December 8, 1874. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + You must allow me to thank you for the very great interest with which I + have at last slowly read the whole of your work. ('Outlines of Cosmic + Philosophy,' 2 volumes, 8vo. 1874.) I have long wished to know something + about the views of the many great men whose doctrines you give. With the + exception of special points I did not even understand H. Spencer's general + doctrine; for his style is too hard work for me. I never in my life read + so lucid an expositor (and therefore thinker) as you are; and I think that + I understand nearly the whole—perhaps less clearly about Cosmic + Theism and Causation than other parts. It is hopeless to attempt out of so + much to specify what has interested me most, and probably you would not + care to hear. I wish some chemist would attempt to ascertain the result of + the cooling of heated gases of the proper kinds, in relation to your + hypothesis of the origin of living matter. It pleased me to find that here + and there I had arrived from my own crude thoughts at some of the same + conclusions with you; though I could seldom or never have given my reasons + for such conclusions. I find that my mind is so fixed by the inducive + method, that I cannot appreciate deductive reasoning: I must begin with a + good body of facts and not from a principle (in which I always suspect + some fallacy) and then as much deduction as you please. This may be very + narrow-minded; but the result is that such parts of H. Spencer, as I have + read with care impress my mind with the idea of his inexhaustible wealth + of suggestion, but never convince me; and so I find it with some others. I + believe the cause to lie in the frequency with which I have found + first-formed theories [to be] erroneous. I thank you for the honourable + mention which you make of my works. Parts of the 'Descent of Man' must + have appeared laughably weak to you: nevertheless, I have sent you a new + edition just published. Thanking you for the profound interest and profit + with which I have read your work. I remain, + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + 1875. + </p> + <p> + [The only work, not purely botanical, which occupied my father in the + present year was the correction of the second edition of 'The Variation of + Animals and Plants,' and on this he was engaged from the beginning of July + till October 3rd. The rest of the year was taken up with his work on + insectivorous plants, and on cross-fertilisation, as will be shown in a + later chapter. The chief alterations in the second edition of 'Animals and + Plants' are in the eleventh chapter on "Bud-variation and on certain + anomalous modes of reproduction;" the chapter on Pangenesis "was also + largely altered and remodelled." He mentions briefly some of the authors + who have noticed the doctrine. Professor Delpino's 'Sulla Darwiniana + Teoria della Pangenesi' (1869), an adverse but fair criticism, seems to + have impressed him as valuable. Of another critique my father + characteristically says ('Animals and Plants,' 2nd edition volume ii. page + 350.), "Dr. Lionel Beale ('Nature,' May 11, 1871, page 26) sneers at the + whole doctrine with much acerbity and some justice." He also points out + that, in Mantegazza's 'Elementi di Igiene,' the theory of Pangenesis was + clearly foreseen. + </p> + <p> + In connection with this subject, a letter of my father's to 'Nature' + (April 27, 1871) should be mentioned. A paper by Mr. Galton had been read + before the Royal Society (March 30, 1871) in which were described + experiments, on intertransfusion of blood, designed to test the truth of + the hypothesis of pangenesis. My father, while giving all due credit to + Mr. Galton for his ingenious experiments, does not allow that pangenesis + has "as yet received its death-blow, though from presenting so many + vulnerable points its life is always in jeopardy." + </p> + <p> + He seems to have found the work of correcting very wearisome, for he + wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "I have no news about myself, as I am merely slaving over the sickening + work of preparing new editions. I wish I could get a touch of poor Lyell's + feelings, that it was delightful to improve a sentence, like a painter + improving a picture." + </p> + <p> + The feeling of effort or strain over this piece of work, is shown in a + letter to Professor Haeckel:— + </p> + <p> + "What I shall do in future if I live, Heaven only knows; I ought perhaps + to avoid general and large subjects, as too difficult for me with my + advancing years, and I suppose enfeebled brain." + </p> + <p> + At the end of March, in this year, the portrait for which he was sitting + to Mr. Ouless was finished. He felt the sittings a great fatigue, in spite + of Mr. Ouless's considerate desire to spare him as far as was possible. In + a letter to Sir J.D. Hooker he wrote, "I look a very venerable, acute, + melancholy old dog; whether I really look so I do not know." The picture + is in the possession of the family, and is known to many through M. + Rajon's etching. Mr. Ouless's portrait is, in my opinion, the finest + representation of my father that has been produced. + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to the death of Sir Charles Lyell, which took + place on February 22nd, 1875, in his seventy-eighth year.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MISS BUCKLEY (NOW MRS. FISHER). (Mrs. Fisher + acted as Secretary to Sir Charles Lyell.) Down, February 23, 1875. + </p> + <p> + My dear Miss Buckley, + </p> + <p> + I am grieved to hear of the death of my old and kind friend, though I knew + that it could not be long delayed, and that it was a happy thing that his + life should not have been prolonged, as I suppose that his mind would + inevitably have suffered. I am glad that Lady Lyell (Lady Lyell died in + 1873.) has been saved this terrible blow. His death makes me think of the + time when I first saw him, and how full of sympathy and interest he was + about what I could tell him of coral reefs and South America. I think that + this sympathy with the work of every other naturalist was one of the + finest features of his character. How completely he revolutionised + Geology: for I can remember something of pre-Lyellian days. + </p> + <p> + I never forget that almost everything which I have done in science I owe + to the study of his great works. Well, he has had a grand and happy + career, and no one ever worked with a truer zeal in a noble cause. It + seems strange to me that I shall never again sit with him and Lady Lyell + at their breakfast. I am very much obliged to you for having so kindly + written to me. + </p> + <p> + Pray give our kindest remembrances to Miss Lyell, and I hope that she has + not suffered much in health, from fatigue and anxiety. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Miss Buckley, Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, February 25 [1875]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Your letter so full of feeling has interested me greatly. I cannot say + that I felt his [Lyell's] death much, for I fully expected it, and have + looked for some little time at his career as finished. + </p> + <p> + I dreaded nothing so much as his surviving with impaired mental powers. He + was, indeed, a noble man in very many ways; perhaps in none more than in + his warm sympathy with the work of others. How vividly I can recall my + first conversation with him, and how he astonished me by his interest in + what I told him. How grand also was his candour and pure love of truth. + Well, he is gone, and I feel as if we were all soon to go... I am deeply + rejoiced about Westminster Abbey (Sir C. Lyell was buried in Westminster + Abbey.), the possibility of which had not occurred to me when I wrote + before. I did think that his works were the most enduring of all + testimonials (as you say) to him; but then I did not like the idea of his + passing away with no outward sign of what scientific men thought of his + merits. Now all this is changed, and nothing can be better than + Westminster Abbey. Mrs. Lyell has asked me to be one of the pall-bearers, + but I have written to say that I dared not, as I should so likely fail in + the midst of the ceremony, and have my head whirling off my shoulders. All + this affair must have cost you much fatigue and worry, and how I do wish + you were out of England... + </p> + <p> + [In 1881 he wrote to Mrs. Fisher in reference to her article on Sir + Charles Lyell in the 'Encyclopaedia Britannica':— + </p> + <p> + "For such a publication I suppose you do not want to say much about his + private character, otherwise his strong sense of humour and love of + society might have been added. Also his extreme interest in the progress + of the world, and in the happiness of mankind. Also his freedom from all + religious bigotry, though these perhaps would be a superfluity." + </p> + <p> + The following refers to the Zoological station at Naples, a subject on + which my father felt an enthusiastic interest:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ANTON DOHRN. Down, [1875?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Dohrn, + </p> + <p> + Many thanks for your most kind letter, I most heartily rejoice at your + improved health and at the success of your grand undertaking, which will + have so much influence on the progress of Zoology throughout Europe. + </p> + <p> + If we look to England alone, what capital work has already been done at + the Station by Balfour and Ray Lankester... When you come to England, I + suppose that you will bring Mrs. Dohrn, and we shall be delighted to see + you both here. I have often boasted that I have had a live Uhlan in my + house! It will be very interesting to me to read your new views on the + ancestry of the Vertebrates. I shall be sorry to give up the Ascidians, to + whom I feel profound gratitude; but the great thing, as it appears to me, + is that any link whatever should be found between the main divisions of + the Animal Kingdom... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO AUGUST WEISMANN. Down, December 6, 1875. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have been profoundly interested by your essay on Amblystoma ('Umwandlung + des Axolotl.'), and think that you have removed a great stumbling block in + the way of Evolution. I once thought of reversion in this case; but in a + crude and imperfect manner. I write now to call your attention to the + sterility of moths when hatched out of their proper season; I give + references in chapter 18 of my 'Variation under Domestication' (volume ii. + page 157, of English edition), and these cases illustrate, I think, the + sterility of Amblystoma. Would it not be worth while to examine the + reproductive organs of those individuals of WINGLESS Hemiptera which + occasionally have wings, as in the case of the bed-bug. I think I have + heard that the females of Mutilla sometimes have wings. These cases must + be due to reversion. I dare say many anomalous cases will be hereafter + explained on the same principle. + </p> + <p> + I hinted at this explanation in the extraordinary case of the + blac-shouldered peacock, the so-called Pavo nigripennis given in my + 'Variation under Domestication;' and I might have been bolder, as the + variety is in many respects intermediate between the two known species. + </p> + <p> + With much respect, Yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + THE VIVISECTION QUESTION. + </p> + <p> + [It was in November 1875 that my father gave his evidence before the Royal + Commission on Vivisection. (See volume i.) I have, therefore, placed + together here the matter relating to this subject, irrespective of date. + Something has already been said of my father's strong feeling with regard + to suffering both in man and beast. It was indeed one of the strongest + feelings in his nature, and was exemplified in matters small and great, in + his sympathy with the educational miseries of dancing dogs, or in his + horror at the sufferings of slaves. (He once made an attempt to free a + patient in a mad-house, who (as he wrongly supposed) was sane. He had some + correspondence with the gardener at the asylum, and on one occasion he + found a letter from a patient enclosed with one from the gardener. The + letter was rational in tone and declared that the writer was sane and + wrongfully confined. + </p> + <p> + My father wrote to the Lunacy Commissioners (without explaining the source + of his information) and in due time heard that the man had been visited by + the Commissioners, and that he was certainly insane. Sometime afterwards + the patient was discharged, and wrote to thank my father for his + interference, adding that he had undoubtedly been insane, when he wrote + his former letter.) + </p> + <p> + The remembrance of screams, or other sounds heard in Brazil, when he was + powerless to interfere with what he believed to be the torture of a slave, + haunted him for years, especially at night. In smaller matters, where he + could interfere, he did so vigorously. He returned one day from his walk + pale and faint from having seen a horse ill-used, and from the agitation + of violently remonstrating with the man. On another occasion he saw a + hors-breaker teaching his son to ride, the little boy was frightened and + the man was rough; my father stopped, and jumping out of the carriage + reproved the man in no measured terms. + </p> + <p> + One other little incident may be mentioned, showing that his humanity to + animals was well-known in his own neighbourhood. A visitor, driving from + Orpington to Down, told the man to go faster, "Why," said the driver, "If + I had whipped the horse THIS much, driving Mr. Darwin, he would have got + out of the carriage and abused me well." + </p> + <p> + With respect to the special point under consideration,—the + sufferings of animals subjected to experiment,—nothing could show a + stronger feeling than the following extract from a letter to Professor Ray + Lankester (March 22, 1871):— + </p> + <p> + "You ask about my opinion on vivisection. I quite agree that it is + justifiable for real investigations on physiology; but not for mere + damnable and detestable curiosity. It is a subject which makes me sick + with horror, so I will not say another word about it, else I shall not + sleep to-night." + </p> + <p> + An extract from Sir Thomas Farrer's notes shows how strongly he expressed + himself in a similar manner in conversation:— + </p> + <p> + "The last time I had any conversation with him was at my house in + Bryanston Square, just before one of his last seizures. He was then deeply + interested in the vivisection question; and what he said made a deep + impression on me. He was a man eminently fond of animals and tender to + them; he would not knowingly have inflicted pain on a living creature; but + he entertained the strongest opinion that to prohibit experiments on + living animals, would be to put a stop to the knowledge of and the + remedies for pain and disease." + </p> + <p> + The Anti-Vivisection agitation, to which the following letters refer, + seems to have become specially active in 1874, as may be seen, e.g. by the + index to 'Nature' for that year, in which the word "Vivisection," suddenly + comes into prominence. But before that date the subject had received the + earnest attention of biologists. Thus at the Liverpool Meeting of the + British Association in 1870, a Committee was appointed, which reported, + defining the circumstances and conditions under which, in the opinion of + the signatories, experiments on living animals were justifiable. In the + spring of 1875, Lord Hartismere introduced a Bill into the Upper House to + regulate the course of physiological research. Shortly afterwards a Bill + more just towards science in its provisions was introduced to the House of + Commons by Messrs. Lyon Playfair, Walpole, and Ashley. It was, however, + withdrawn on the appointment of a Royal Commission to inquire into the + whole question. The Commissioners were Lords Cardwell and Winmarleigh, Mr. + W.E. Forster, Sir J.B. Karslake, Mr. Huxley, Professor Erichssen, and Mr. + R.H. Hutton: they commenced their inquiry in July, 1875, and the Report + was published early in the following year. + </p> + <p> + In the early summer of 1876, Lord Carnarvon's Bill, entitled, "An Act to + amend the Law relating to Cruelty to Animals," was introduced. It cannot + be denied that the framers of this Bill, yielding to the unreasonable + clamour of the public, went far beyond the recommendations of the Royal + Commission. As a correspondent in 'Nature' put it (1876, page 248), "the + evidence on the strength of which legislation was recommended went beyond + the facts, the Report went beyond the evidence, the Recommendations beyond + the Report; and the Bill can hardly be said to have gone beyond the + Recommendations; but rather to have contradicted them." + </p> + <p> + The legislation which my father worked for, as described in the following + letters, was practically what was introduced as Dr. Lyon Playfair's Bill.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MRS. LITCHFIELD. (His daughter.) January 4, + 1875. + </p> + <p> + My dear H. + </p> + <p> + Your letter has led me to think over vivisection (I wish some new word + like anaes-section could be invented (He communicated to 'Nature' + (September 30, 1880) an article by Dr. Wilder, of Cornell University, an + abstract of which was published (page 517). Dr. Wilder advocated the use + of the word 'Callisection' for painless operations on animals.) for some + hours, and I will jot down my conclusions, which will appear very + unsatisfactory to you. I have long thought physiology one of the greatest + of sciences, sure sooner, or more probably later, greatly to benefit + mankind; but, judging from all other sciences, the benefits will accrue + only indirectly in the search for abstract truth. It is certain that + physiology can progress only by experiments on living animals. Therefore + the proposal to limit research to points of which we can now see the + bearings in regard to health, etc., I look at as puerile. I thought at + first it would be good to limit vivisection to public laboratories; but I + have heard only of those in London and Cambridge, and I think Oxford; but + probably there may be a few others. Therefore only men living in a few + great towns would carry on investigation, and this I should consider a + great evil. If private men were permitted to work in their own houses, and + required a licence, I do not see who is to determine whether any + particular man should receive one. It is young unknown men who are the + most likely to do good work. I would gladly punish severely any one who + operated on an animal not rendered insensible, if the experiment made this + possible; but here again I do not see that a magistrate or jury could + possibly determine such a point. Therefore I conclude, if (as is likely) + some experiments have been tried too often, or anaesthetics have not been + used when they could have been, the cure must be in the improvement of + humanitarian feelings. Under this point of view I have rejoiced at the + present agitation. If stringent laws are passed, and this is likely, + seeing how unscientific the House of Commons is, and that the gentlemen of + England are humane, as long as their sports are not considered, which + entailed a hundred or thousand-fold more suffering than the experiments of + physiologists—if such laws are passed, the result will assuredly be + that physiology, which has been until within the last few years at a + standstill in England, will languish or quite cease. It will then be + carried on solely on the Continent; and there will be so many the fewer + workers on this grand subject, and this I should greatly regret. By the + way, F. Balfour, who has worked for two or three years in the laboratory + at Cambridge, declares to George that he has never seen an experiment, + except with animals rendered insensible. No doubt the names of Doctors + will have great weight with the House of Commons; but very many + practitioners neither know nor care anything about the progress of + knowledge. I cannot at present see my way to sign any petition, without + hearing what physiologists thought would be its effect, and then judging + for myself. I certainly could not sign the paper sent me by Miss Cobbe, + with its monstrous (as it seems to me) attack on Virchow for experimenting + on the Trichinae. I am tired and so no more. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, April 14 [1875]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I worked all the time in London on the vivisection question; and we now + think it advisable to go further than a mere petition. Litchfield (Mr. + R.B. Litchfield, his son-in-law.) drew up a sketch of a Bill, the + essential features of which have been approved by Sanderson, Simon and + Huxley, and from conversation, will, I believe, be approved by Paget, and + almost certainly, I think, by Michael Foster. Sanderson, Simon and Paget + wish me to see Lord Derby, and endeavour to gain his advocacy with the + Home Secretary. Now, if this is carried into effect, it will be of great + importance to me to be able to say that the Bill in its essential features + has the approval of some half-dozen eminent scientific men. I have + therefore asked Litchfield to enclose a copy to you in its first rough + form; and if it is not essentially modified may I say that it meets with + your approval as President of the Royal Society? The object is to protect + animals, and at the same time not to injure Physiology, and Huxley and + Sanderson's approval almost suffices on this head. Pray let me have a line + from you soon. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The Physiological Society, which was founded in 1876, was in some measure + the outcome of the anti-vivisection movement, since it was this agitation + which impressed on Physiologists the need of a centre for those engaged in + this particular branch of science. With respect to the Society, my father + wrote to Mr. Romanes (May 29, 1876):— + </p> + <p> + "I was very much gratified by the wholly unexpected honour of being + elected one of the Honorary Members. This mark of sympathy has pleased me + to a very high degree." + </p> + <p> + The following letter appeared in the "Times", April 18th, 1881:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO FRITHIOF HOLMGREN. (Professor of Physiology at + Upsala.) Down, April 14, 1881. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + In answer to your courteous letter of April 7, I have no objection to + express my opinion with respect to the right of experimenting on living + animals. I use this latter expression as more correct and comprehensive + than that of vivisection. You are at liberty to make any use of this + letter which you may think fit, but if published I should wish the whole + to appear. I have all my life been a strong advocate for humanity to + animals, and have done what I could in my writings to enforce this duty. + Several years ago, when the agitation against physiologists commenced in + England, it was asserted that inhumanity was here practised, and useless + suffering caused to animals; and I was led to think that it might be + advisable to have an Act of Parliament on the subject. I then took an + active part in trying to get a Bill passed, such as would have removed all + just cause of complaint, and at the same time have left physiologists free + to pursue their researches,—a Bill very different from the Act which + has since been passed. It is right to add that the investigation of the + matter by a Royal Commission proved that the accusations made against our + English physiologists were false. From all that I have heard, however, I + fear that in some parts of Europe little regard is paid to the sufferings + of animals, and if this be the case, I should be glad to hear of + legislation against inhumanity in any such country. On the other hand, I + know that physiology cannot possibly progress except by means of + experiments on living animals, and I feel the deepest conviction that he + who retards the progress of physiology commits a crime against mankind. + Any one who remembers, as I can, the state of this science half a century + ago, must admit that it has made immense progress, and it is now + progressing at an ever-increasing rate. What improvements in medical + practice may be directly attributed to physiological research is a + question which can be properly discussed only by those physiologists and + medical practitioners who have studied the history of their subjects; but, + as far as I can learn, the benefits are already great. However this may + be, no one, unless he is grossly ignorant of what science has done for + mankind, can entertain any doubt of the incalculable benefits which will + hereafter be derived from physiology, not only by man, but by the lower + animals. Look for instance at Pasteur's results in modifying the germs of + the most malignant diseases, from which, as it so happens, animals will in + the first place receive more relief than man. Let it be remembered how + many lives and what a fearful amount of suffering have been saved by the + knowledge gained of parasitic worms through the experiments of Virchow and + others on living animals. In the future every one will be astonished at + the ingratitude shown, at least in England, to these benefactors of + mankind. As for myself, permit me to assure you that I honour, and shall + always honour, every one who advances the noble science of physiology. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, yours faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the "Times" of the following day appeared a letter headed "Mr. Darwin + and Vivisection," signed by Miss Frances Power Cobbe. To this my father + replied in the "Times" of April 22, 1881. On the same day he wrote to Mr. + Romanes:— + </p> + <p> + "As I have a fair opportunity, I sent a letter to the "Times" on + Vivisection, which is printed to-day. I thought it fair to bear my share + of the abuse poured in so atrocious a manner on all physiologists.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I do not wish to discuss the views expressed by Miss Cobbe in the letter + which appeared in the "Times" of the 19th inst.; but as she asserts that I + have "misinformed" my correspondent in Sweden in saying that "the + investigation of the matter by a Royal Commission proved that the + accusations made against our English physiologists were false," I will + merely ask leave to refer to some other sentences from the Report of the + Commission. + </p> + <p> + 1. The sentence—"It is not to be doubted that inhumanity may be + found in persons of very high position as physiologists," which Miss Cobbe + quotes from page 17 of the report, and which, in her opinion, "can + necessarily concern English physiologists alone and not foreigners," is + immediately followed by the words "We have seen that it was so in + Magendie." Magendie was a French physiologist who became notorious some + half century ago for his cruel experiments on living animals. + </p> + <p> + 2. The Commissioners, after speaking of the "general sentiment of + humanity" prevailing in this country, say (page 10):— + </p> + <p> + "This principle is accepted generally by the very highly educated men + whose lives are devoted either to scientific investigation and education + or to the mitigation or the removal of the sufferings of their + fellow-creatures; though differences of degree in regard to its practical + application will be easily discernible by those who study the evidence as + it has been laid before us." + </p> + <p> + Again, according to the Commissioners (page 10):— + </p> + <p> + "The secretary of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to + Animals, when asked whether the general tendency of the scientific world + in this country is at variance with humanity, says he believes it to be + very different, indeed, from that of foreign physiologists; and while + giving it as the opinion of the society that experiments are performed + which are in their nature beyond any legitimate province of science, and + that the pain which they inflict is pain which it is not justifiable to + inflict even for the scientific object in view, he readily acknowledges + that he does not know a single case of wanton cruelty, and that in general + the English physiologists have used anaesthetics where they think they can + do so with safety to the experiment." + </p> + <p> + I am, Sir, your obedient servant, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + April 21. + </p> + <p> + [In the "Times" of Saturday, April 23, 1881, appeared a letter from Miss + Cobbe in reply:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G.J. ROMANES. Down, April 25, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Romanes, + </p> + <p> + I was very glad to read your last note with much news interesting to me. + But I write now to say how I, and indeed all of us in the house have + admired your letter in the "Times". (April 25, 1881.—Mr. Romanes + defended Dr. Sanderson against the accusations made by Miss Cobbe.) It was + so simple and direct. I was particularly glad about Burton Sanderson, of + whom I have been for several years a great admirer. I was also especially + glad to read the last sentences. I have been bothered with several + letters, but none abusive. Under a SELFISH point of view I am very glad of + the publication of your letter, as I was at first inclined to think that I + had done mischief by stirring up the mud. Now I feel sure that I have done + good. Mr. Jesse has written to me very politely, he says his Society has + had nothing to do with placards and diagrams against physiology, and I + suppose, therefore, that these all originate with Miss Cobbe... Mr. Jesse + complains bitterly that the "Times" will "burke" all his letters to this + newspaper, nor am I surprised, judging from the laughable tirades + advertised in "Nature". + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter refers to a projected conjoint article on vivisection, to + which Mr. Romanes wished my father to contribute:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G.J. ROMANES. Down, September 2, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Romanes, + </p> + <p> + Your letter has perplexed me beyond all measure. I fully recognise the + duty of every one whose opinion is worth anything, expressing his opinion + publicly on vivisection; and this made me send my letter to the "Times". I + have been thinking at intervals all morning what I could say, and it is + the simple truth that I have nothing worth saying. You and men like you, + whose ideas flow freely, and who can express them easily, cannot + understand the state of mental paralysis in which I find myself. What is + most wanted is a careful and accurate attempt to show what physiology has + already done for man, and even still more strongly what there is every + reason to believe it will hereafter do. Now I am absolutely incapable of + doing this, or of discussing the other points suggested by you. + </p> + <p> + If you wish for my name (and I should be glad that it should appear with + that of others in the same cause), could you not quote some sentence from + my letter in the "Times" which I enclose, but please return it. If you + thought fit you might say you quoted it with my approval, and that after + still further reflection I still abide most strongly in my expressed + conviction. + </p> + <p> + For Heaven's sake, do think of this. I do not grudge the labour and + thought; but I could write nothing worth any one reading. + </p> + <p> + Allow me to demur to your calling your conjoint article a "symposium" + strictly a "drinking party." This seems to me very bad taste, and I do + hope every one of you will avoid any semblance of a joke on the subject. I + KNOW that words, like a joke, on this subject have quite disgusted some + persons not at all inimical to physiology. One person lamented to me that + Mr. Simon, in his truly admirable Address at the Medical Congress (by far + the best thing which I have read), spoke of the fantastic SENSUALITY + ('Transactions of the International Medical Congress,' 1881, volume iv. + page 413. The expression "lackadaisical" (not fantastic), and "feeble + sensuality," are used with regard to the feelings of the + ant-vivisectionists.) (or some such term) of the many mistaken, but honest + men and women who are half mad on the subject... + </p> + <p> + [To Dr. Lauder Brunton my father wrote in February 1882:— + </p> + <p> + "Have you read Mr. [Edmund] Gurney's articles in the 'Fortnightly' ("A + chapter in the Ethics of Pain," 'Fortnightly Review,' 1881, volume xxx. + page 778.) and 'Cornhill?' ("An Epilogue on Vivisection," 'Cornhill + Magazine,' 1882, volume xlv. page 191.) They seem to me very clever, + though obscurely written, and I agree with almost everything he says, + except with some passages which appear to imply that no experiments should + be tried unless some immediate good can be predicted, and this is a + gigantic mistake contradicted by the whole history of science."] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.IX. — MISCELLANEA (continued) + </h2> + <p> + A REVIVAL OF GEOLOGICAL WORK—THE BOOK ON EARTHWORMS—LIFE OF + ERASMUS DARWIN—MISCELLANEOUS LETTERS. + </p> + <p> + 1876-1882. + </p> + <p> + [We have now to consider the work (other than botanical) which occupied + the concluding six years of my father's life. A letter to his old friend + Rev. L. Blomefield (Jenyns), written in March, 1877, shows what was my + father's estimate of his own powers of work at this time:— + </p> + <p> + "My dear Jenyns (I see I have forgotten your proper names).—Your + extremely kind letter has given me warm pleasure. As one gets old, one's + thoughts turn back to the past rather than to the future, and I often + think of the pleasant, and to me valuable, hours which I spent with you on + the borders of the Fens. + </p> + <p> + "You ask about my future work; I doubt whether I shall be able to do much + more that is new, and I always keep before my mind the example of poor old + —, who in his old age had a cacoethes for writing. But I cannot + endure doing nothing, so I suppose that I shall go on as long as I can + without obviously making a fool of myself. I have a great mass of matter + with respect to variation under nature; but so much has been published + since the appearance of the 'Origin of Species,' that I very much doubt + whether I retain power of mind and strength to reduce the mass into a + digested whole. I have sometimes thought that I would try, but dread the + attempt..." + </p> + <p> + His prophecy proved to be a true one with regard to any continuation of + any general work in the direction of Evolution, but his estimate of powers + which could afterwards prove capable of grappling with the 'Power of + Movement in Plants,' and with the work on 'Earthworms,' was certainly a + low one. + </p> + <p> + The year 1876, with which the present chapter begins, brought with it a + revival of geological work. He had been astonished, as I hear from + Professor Judd, and as appears in his letters, to learn that his books on + 'Volcanic Islands,' 1844, and on 'South America,' 1846, were still + consulted by geologists, and it was a surprise to him that new editions + should be required. Both these works were originally published by Messrs. + Smith and Elder, and the new edition of 1876 was also brought out by them. + This appeared in one volume with the title 'Geological Observations on the + Volcanic Islands, and Parts of South America visited during the Voyage of + H.M.S. "Beagle".' He has explained in the preface his reasons for leaving + untouched the text of the original editions: "They relate to parts of the + world which have been so rarely visited by men of science, that I am not + aware that much could be corrected or added from observations subsequently + made. Owing to the great progress which Geology has made within recent + times, my views on some few points may be somewhat antiquated; but I have + thought it best to leave them as they originally appeared." + </p> + <p> + It may have been the revival of geological speculation, due to the + revision of his early books, that led to his recording the observations of + which some account is given in the following letter. Part of it has been + published in Professor James Geikie's 'Prehistoric Europe,' chapters vii. + and ix. (My father's suggestion is also noticed in Prof. Geikie's address + on the 'Ice Age in Europe and North America,' given at Edinburgh, November + 20, 1884.), a few verbal alterations having been made at my father's + request in the passages quoted. Mr. Geikie lately wrote to me: "The views + suggested in his letter as to the origin of the angular gravels, etc., in + the South of England will, I believe, come to be accepted as the truth. + This question has a much wider bearing than might at first appear. In + point of fact it solves one of the most difficult problems in Quaternary + Geology—and has already attracted the attention of German + geologists."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JAMES GEIKIE. Down, November 16, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will forgive me for troubling you with a very long letter. + But first allow me to tell you with what extreme pleasure and admiration I + have just finished reading your 'Great Ice Age.' It seems to me admirably + done, and most clear. Interesting as many chapters are in the history of + the world, I do not think that any one comes [up] nearly to the glacial + period or periods. Though I have steadily read much on the subject, your + book makes the whole appear almost new to me. + </p> + <p> + I am now going to mention a small observation, made by me two or three + years ago, near Southampton, but not followed out, as I have no strength + for excursions. I need say nothing about the character of the drift there + (which includes palaeolithic celts), for you have described its essential + features in a few words at page 506. It covers the whole country [in an] + even plain-like surface, almost irrespective of the present outline of the + land. + </p> + <p> + The coarse stratification has sometimes been disturbed. I find that you + allude "to the larger stones often standing on end;" and this is the point + which struck me so much. Not only moderately sized angular stones, but + small oval pebbles often stand vertically up, in a manner which I have + never seen in ordinary gravel beds. This fact reminded me of what occurs + near my home, in the stiff red clay, full of unworn flints over the chalk, + which is no doubt the residue left undissolved by rain water. In this + clay, flints as long and thin as my arm often stand perpendicularly up; + and I have been told by the tank-diggers that it is their "natural + position!" I presume that this position may safely be attributed to the + differential movement of parts of the red clay as it subsided very slowly + from the dissolution of the underlying chalk; so that the flints arrange + themselves in the lines of least resistance. The similar but less strongly + marked arrangement of the stones in the drift near Southampton makes me + suspect that it also must have slowly subsided; and the notion has crossed + my mind that during the commencement and height of the glacial period + great beds of frozen snow accumulated over the south of England, and that, + during the summer, gravel and stones were washed from the higher land over + its surface, and in superficial channels. The larger streams may have cut + right through the frozen snow, and deposited gravel in lines at the + bottom. But on each succeeding autumn, when the running water failed, I + imagine that the lines of drainage would have been filled up by blown snow + afterwards congealed, and that, owing to great surface accumulations of + snow, it would be a mere chance whether the drainage, together with gravel + and sand, would follow the same lines during the next summer. Thus, as I + apprehend, alternate layers of frozen snow and drift, in sheets and lines, + would ultimately have covered the country to a great thickness, with lines + of drift probably deposited in various directions at the bottom by the + larger streams. As the climate became warmer, the lower beds of frozen + snow would have melted with extreme slowness, and the many irregular beds + of interstratified drift would have sunk down with equal slowness; and + during this movement the elongated pebbles would have arranged themselves + more or less vertically. The drift would also have been deposited almost + irrespective of the outline of the underlying land. When I viewed the + country I could not persuade myself that any flood, however great, could + have deposited such coarse gravel over the almost level platforms between + the valleys. My view differs from that of Holst, page 415 ['Great Ice + Age'], of which I had never heard, as his relates to channels cut through + glaciers, and mine to beds of drift interstratified with frozen snow where + no glaciers existed. The upshot of this long letter is to ask you to keep + my notion in your head, and look out for upright pebbles in any lowland + country which you may examine, where glaciers have not existed. Or if you + think the notion deserves any further thought, but not otherwise, to tell + any one of it, for instance Mr. Skertchly, who is examining such + districts. Pray forgive me for writing so long a letter, and again + thanking you for the great pleasure derived from your book, + </p> + <p> + I remain yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.... I am glad that you have read Blytt (Axel Blytt.—'Essay on + the Immigration of the Norwegian Flora during alternate rainy and dry + Seasons.' Christiania, 1876.); his paper seemed to me a most important + contribution to Botanical Geography. How curious that the same conclusions + should have been arrived at by Mr. Skertchly, who seems to be a first-rate + observer; and this implies, as I always think, a sound theoriser. + </p> + <p> + I have told my publisher to send you in two or three days a copy (second + edition) of my geological work during the voyage of the "Beagle". The sole + point which would perhaps interest you is about the steppe-like plains of + Patagonia. + </p> + <p> + For many years past I have had fearful misgivings that it must have been + the level of the sea, and not that of the land which has changed. + </p> + <p> + I read a few months ago your [brother's] very interesting life of + Murchison. (By Mr. Archibald Geikie.) Though I have always thought that he + ranked next to W. Smith in the classification of formations, and though I + knew how kind-hearted [he was], yet the book has raised him greatly in my + respect, notwithstanding his foibles and want of broad philosophical + views. + </p> + <p> + [The only other geological work of his later years was embodied in his + book on earthworms (1881), which may therefore be conveniently considered + in this place. This subject was one which had interested him many years + before this date, and in 1838 a paper on the formation of mould was + published in the Proceedings of the Geological Society (see volume i.). + </p> + <p> + Here he showed that "fragments of burnt marl, cinders, etc., which had + been thickly strewed over the surface of several meadows were found after + a few years lying at a depth of some inches beneath the turf, but still + forming a layer." For the explanation of this fact, which forms the + central idea of the geological part of the book, he was indebted to his + uncle Josiah Wedgwood, who suggested that worms, by bringing earth to the + surface in their castings, must undermine any objects lying on the surface + and cause an apparent sinking. + </p> + <p> + In the book of 1881 he extended his observations on this burying action, + and devised a number of different ways of checking his estimates as to the + amount of work done. (He received much valuable help from Dr. King, of the + Botanical Gardens, Calcutta. The following passage is from a letter to Dr. + King, dated January 18, 1873:— + </p> + <p> + "I really do not know how to thank you enough for the immense trouble + which you have taken. You have attended EXACTLY and FULLY to the points + about which I was most anxious. If I had been each evening by your side, I + could not have suggested anything else.") He also added a mass of + observations on the habits, natural history and intelligence of worms, a + part of the work which added greatly to its popularity. + </p> + <p> + In 1877 Sir Thomas Farrer had discovered close to his garden the remains + of a building of Roman-British times, and thus gave my father the + opportunity of seeing for himself the effects produced by earthworms' work + on the old concrete-floors, walls, etc. On his return he wrote to Sir + Thomas Farrer: + </p> + <p> + "I cannot remember a more delightful week than the last. I know very well + that E. will not believe me, but the worms were by no means the sole + charm." + </p> + <p> + In the autumn of 1880, when the 'Power of Movement in Plants' was nearly + finished, he began once more on the subject. He wrote to Professor Carus + (September 21):— + </p> + <p> + "In the intervals of correcting the press, I am writing a very little + book, and have done nearly half of it. Its title will be (as at present + designed) 'The Formation of Vegetable Mould through the Action of Worms.' + (The full title is 'The Formation of Vegetable Mould through the Action of + Worms with Observations on their Habits,' 1881.) As far as I can judge it + will be a curious little book." + </p> + <p> + The manuscript was sent to the printers in April, 1881, and when the + proo-sheets were coming in he wrote to Professor Carus: "The subject has + been to me a hobby-horse, and I have perhaps treated it in foolish + detail." + </p> + <p> + It was published on October 10, and 2000 copies were sold at once. He + wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker, "I am glad that you approve of the 'Worms.' When + in old days I used to tell you whatever I was doing, if you were at all + interested, I always felt as most men do when their work is finally + published." + </p> + <p> + To Mr. Mellard Reade he wrote (November 8): "It has been a complete + surprise to me how many persons have cared for the subject." And to Mr. + Dyer (in November): "My book has been received with almost laughable + enthusiasm, and 3500 copies have been sold!!!" Again, to his friend Mr. + Anthony Rich, he wrote on February 4, 1882, "I have been plagued with an + endless stream of letters on the subject; most of them very foolish and + enthusiastic; but some containing good facts which I have used in + correcting yesterday the 'Sixth Thousand.'" The popularity of the book may + be roughly estimated by the fact that, in the three years following its + publication, 8500 copies were sold—a sale relatively greater than + that of the 'Origin of Species.' + </p> + <p> + It is not difficult to account for its success with the non-scientific + public. Conclusions so wide and so novel, and so easily understood, drawn + from the study of creatures so familiar, and treated with unabated vigour + and freshness, may well have attracted many readers. A reviewer remarks: + "In the eyes of most men... the earthworm is a mere blind, dumb, + senseless, and unpleasantly slimy annelid. Mr. Darwin undertakes to + rehabilitate his character, and the earthworm steps forth at once as an + intelligent and beneficent personage, a worker of vast geological changes, + a planer down of mountain sides... a friend of man... and an ally of the + Society for the preservation of ancient monuments." The "St. James + Gazette", October 17, 1881, pointed out that the teaching of the + cumulative importance of the infinitely little is the point of contact + between this book and the author's previous work. + </p> + <p> + One more book remains to be noticed, the 'Life of Erasmus Darwin.' + </p> + <p> + In February 1879 an essay by Dr. Ernst Krause, on the scientific work of + Erasmus Darwin, appeared in the evolutionary journal, 'Kosmos.' The number + of 'Kosmos' in question was a "Gratulationsheft" (The same number contains + a good biographical sketch of my father, of which the material was to a + large extent supplied by him to the writer, Professor Preyer of Jena. The + article contains an excellent list of my father's publications.), or + special congratulatory issue in honour of my father's birthday, so that + Dr. Krause's essay, glorifying the older evolutionist, was quite in its + place. He wrote to Dr. Krause, thanking him cordially for the honour paid + to Erasmus, and asking his permission to publish (The wish to do so was + shared by his brother, Erasmus Darwin the younger, who continued to be + associated with the project.) an English translation of the Essay. + </p> + <p> + His chief reason for writing a notice of his grandfather's life was "to + contradict flatly some calumnies by Miss Seward." This appears from a + letter of March 27, 1879, to his cousin Reginald Darwin, in which he asks + for any documents and letters which might throw light on the character of + Erasmus. This led to Mr. Reginald Darwin placing in my father's hands a + quantity of valuable material, including a curious folio common-place + book, of which he wrote: "I have been deeply interested by the great + book,... reading and looking at it is like having communion with the + dead...[it] has taught me a good deal about the occupations and tastes of + our grandfather." A subsequent letter (April 8) to the same correspondent + describes the source of a further supply of material:— + </p> + <p> + Since my last letter I have made a strange discovery; for an old box from + my father marked "Old Deeds," and which consequently I had never opened, I + found full of letters—hundreds from Dr. Erasmus—and others + from old members of the Family: some few very curious. Also a drawing of + Elston before it was altered, about 1750, of which I think I will give a + copy." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Krause's contribution formed the second part of the 'Life of Erasmus + Darwin,' my father supplying a "preliminary notice." This expression on + the title-page is somewhat misleading; my father's contribution is more + than half the book, and should have been described as a biography. Work of + this kind was new to him, and he wrote doubtfully to Mr. Thiselton Dyer, + June 18th: "God only knows what I shall make of his life, it is such a new + kind of work to me." The strong interest he felt about his forebears + helped to give zest to the work, which became a decided enjoyment to him. + With the general public the book was not markedly successful, but many of + his friends recognised its merits. Sir J.D. Hooker was one of these, and + to him my father wrote, "Your praise of the Life of Dr. D. has pleased me + exceedingly, for I despised my work, and thought myself a perfect fool to + have undertaken such a job." + </p> + <p> + To Mr. Galton, too, he wrote, November 14:— + </p> + <p> + "I am EXTREMELY glad that you approve of the little 'Life' of our + grandfather, for I have been repenting that I ever undertook it, as the + work was quite beyond my tether." + </p> + <p> + The publication of the 'Life of Erasmus Darwin' led to an attack by Mr. + Samuel Butler, which amounted to a charge of falsehood against my father. + After consulting his friends, he came to the determination to leave the + charge unanswered, as unworthy of his notice. (He had, in a letter to Mr. + Butler, expressed his regret at the oversight which caused so much + offence.) Those who wish to know more of the matter, may gather the facts + of the case from Ernst Krause's 'Charles Darwin,' and they will find Mr. + Butler's statement of his grievance in the "Athenaeum", January 31, 1880, + and in the "St. James's Gazette", December 8, 1880. The affair gave my + father much pain, but the warm sympathy of those whose opinion he + respected soon helped him to let it pass into a well-merited oblivion. + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to M. J.H. Fabre's 'Souvenirs Entomologiques.' + It may find a place here, as it contains a defence of Erasmus Darwin on a + small point. The postscript is interesting, as an example of one of my + father's bold ideas both as to experiment and theory:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.H. FABRE. Down, January 31, 1880. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will permit me to have the satisfaction of thanking you + cordially for the lively pleasure which I have derived from reading your + book. Never have the wonderful habits of insects been more vividly + described, and it is almost as good to read about them as to see them. I + feel sure that you would not be unjust to even an insect, much less to a + man. Now, you have been misled by some translator, for my grandfather, + Erasmus Darwin, states ('Zoonomia,' volume i. page 183, 1794) that it was + a wasp (guepe) which he saw cutting off the wings of a large fly. I have + no doubt that you are right in saying that the wings are generally cut off + instinctively; but in the case described by my grandfather, the wasp, + after cutting off the two ends of the body, rose in the air, and was + turned round by the wind; he then alighted and cut off the wings. I must + believe, with Pierre Huber, that insects have "une petite dose de raison." + In the next edition of your book, I hope that you will alter PART of what + you say about my grandfather. + </p> + <p> + I am sorry that you are so strongly opposed to the Descent theory; I have + found the searching for the history of each structure or instinct an + excellent aid to observation; and wonderful observer as you are, it would + suggest new points to you. If I were to write on the evolution of + instincts, I could make good use of some of the facts which you give. + Permit me to add, that when I read the last sentence in your book, I + sympathised deeply with you. (The book is intended as a memorial of the + early death of M. Fabre's son, who had been his father's assistant in his + observations on insect life.) + </p> + <p> + With the most sincere respect, I remain, dear Sir, yours faithfully, + CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Allow me to make a suggestion in relation to your wonderful + account of insects finding their way home. I formerly wished to try it + with pigeons: namely, to carry the insects in their paper "cornets," about + a hundred paces in the opposite direction to that which you ultimately + intended to carry them; but before turning round to return, to put the + insect in a circular box, with an axle which could be made to revolve very + rapidly, first in one direction, and then in another, so as to destroy for + a time all sense of direction in the insects. I have sometimes IMAGINED + that animals may feel in which direction they were at the first start + carried. (This idea was a favourite one with him, and he has described in + 'Nature' (volume vii. 1873, page 360) the behaviour of his cob Tommy, in + whom he fancied he detected a sense of direction. The horse had been taken + by rail from Kent to the Isle of Wight; when there he exhibited a marked + desire to go eastward, even when his stable lay in the opposite direction. + In the same volume of 'Nature,' page 417, is a letter on the 'Origin of + Certain Instincts,' which contains a short discussion on the sense of + direction.) If this plan failed, I had intended placing the pigeons within + an induction coil, so as to disturb any magnetic or dia-magnetic + sensibility, which it seems just possible that they may possess. + </p> + <p> + C.D. + </p> + <p> + [During the latter years of my father's life there was a growing tendency + in the public to do him honour. In 1877 he received the honorary degree of + LL.D. from the University of Cambridge. The degree was conferred on + November 17, and with the customary Latin speech from the Public Orator, + concluding with the words: "Tu vero, qui leges naturae tam docte + illustraveris, legum doctor nobis esto." + </p> + <p> + The honorary degree led to a movement being set on foot in the University + to obtain some permanent memorial of my father. A sum of about 400 pounds + was subscribed, and after the rejection of the idea that a bust would be + the best memorial, a picture was determined on. In June 1879 he sat to Mr. + W. Richmond for the portrait in the possession of the University, now + placed in the Library of the philosophical Society at Cambridge. He is + represented seated in his Doctor's gown, the head turned towards the + spectator: the picture has many admirers, but, according to my own view, + neither the attitude nor the expression are characteristic of my father. + </p> + <p> + A similar wish on the part of the Linnean Society— with which my + father was so closely associated—led to his sitting in August, 1881, + to Mr. John Collier, for the portrait now in the possession of the + Society. Of the artist, he wrote, "Collier was the most considerate, kind + and pleasant painter a sitter could desire." The portrait represents him + standing facing the observer in the loose cloak so familiar to those who + knew him, and with his slouch hat in his hand. Many of those who knew his + face most intimately, think that Mr. Collier's picture is the best of the + portraits, and in this judgment the sitter himself was inclined to agree. + According to my feeling it is not so simple or strong a representation of + him as that given by Mr. Ouless. There is a certain expression in Mr. + Collier's portrait which I am inclined to consider an exaggeration of the + almost painful expression which Professor Cohn has described in my + father's face, and which he had previously noticed in Humboldt. Professor + Cohn's remarks occur in a pleasantly written account of a visit to Down in + 1876, published in the "Breslauer Zeitung", April 23, 1882. (In this + connection may be mentioned a visit (1881) from another distinguished + German, Hans Richter. The occurrence is otherwise worthy of mention, + inasmuch as it led to the publication, after my father's death, of Herr + Richter's recollections of the visit. The sketch is simply and + sympathetically written, and the author has succeeded in giving a true + picture of my father as he lived at Down. It appeared in the "Neue + Tagblatt" of Vienna, and was republished by Dr. O. Zacharias in his + 'Charles R. Darwin,' Berlin, 1882.) + </p> + <p> + Besides the Cambridge degree, he received about the same time honours of + an academic kind from some foreign societies. + </p> + <p> + On August 5, 1878, he was elected a Corresponding Member of the French + Institute ("Lyell always spoke of it as a great scandal that Darwin was so + long kept out of the French Institute. As he said, even if the development + hypothesis were objected to, Darwin's original works on Coral Reefs, the + Cirripedia, and other subjects, constituted a more than sufficient claim"—From + Professor Judd's notes.), in the Botanical Section, and wrote to Dr. Asa + Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "I see that we are both elected Corresponding Members of the Institute. It + is rather a good joke that I should be elected in the Botanical Section, + as the extent of my knowledge is little more than that a daisy is a + Compositous plant and a pea a Leguminous one." + </p> + <p> + (The statement has been more than once published that he was elected to + the Zoological Section, but this was not the case. + </p> + <p> + He received twenty-six votes out of a possible 39, five blank papers were + sent in, and eight votes were recorded for the other candidates. + </p> + <p> + In 1872 an attempt had been made to elect him to the Section of Zoology, + when, however, he only received 15 out of 48 votes, and Loven was chosen + for the vacant place. It appears ('Nature,' August 1, 1872) that an + eminent member of the Academy wrote to "Les Mondes" to the following + effect:— + </p> + <p> + "What has closed the doors of the Academy to Mr. Darwin is that the + science of those of his books which have made his chief title to fame-the + 'Origin of Species,' and still more the 'Descent of Man,' is not science, + but a mass of assertions and absolutely gratuitous hypotheses, often + evidently fallacious. This kind of publication and these theories are a + bad example, which a body that respects itself cannot encourage.") + </p> + <p> + In the early part of the same year he was elected a Corresponding Member + of the Berlin Academy of Sciences, and he wrote (March 12) to Professor Du + Bois Reymond, who had proposed him for election:— + </p> + <p> + "I thank you sincerely for your most kind letter, in which you announce + the great honour conferred on me. The knowledge of the names of the + illustrious men, who seconded the proposal is even a greater pleasure to + me than the honour itself." + </p> + <p> + The seconders were Helmholtz, Peters, Ewald, Pringsheim and Virchow. + </p> + <p> + In 1879 he received the Baly Medal of the Royal College of Physicians. + (The visit to London, necessitated by the presentation of the Baly Medal, + was combined with a visit to Miss Forster's house at Abinger, in Surrey, + and this was the occasion of the following characteristic letter:—"I + must write a few words to thank you cordially for lending us your house. + It was a most kind thought, and has pleased me greatly; but I know well + that I do not deserve such kindness from any one. On the other hand, no + one can be too kind to my dear wife, who is worth her weight in gold many + times over, and she was anxious that I should get some complete rest, and + here I cannot rest. Your house will be a delightful haven and again I + thank you truly.") + </p> + <p> + Again in 1879 he received from the Royal Academy of Turin the "Bressa" + prize for the years 1875-78, amounting to the sum of 12,000 francs. In the + following year he received on his birthday, as on previous occasions, a + kind letter of congratulation from Dr. Dohrn of Naples. In writing + (February 15th) to thank him and the other naturalists at the Zoological + Station, my father added:— + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you saw in the papers that the Turin Society honoured me to an + extraordinary degree by awarding me the "Bressa" Prize. Now it occurred to + me that if your station wanted some pieces of apparatus, of about the + value of 100 pounds, I should very much like to be allowed to pay for it. + Will you be so kind as to keep this in mind, and if any want should occur + to you, I would send you a cheque at any time." + </p> + <p> + I find from my father's accounts that 100 pounds was presented to the + Naples Station. + </p> + <p> + He received also several tokens of respect and sympathy of a more private + character from various sources. With regard to such incidents and to the + estimation of the public generally, his attitude may be illustrated by a + passage from a letter to Mr. Romanes:—(The lecture referred to was + given at the Dublin meeting of the British association.) + </p> + <p> + "You have indeed passed a most magnificent eulogium upon me, and I wonder + that you were not afraid of hearing 'oh! oh!' or some other sign of + disapprobation. Many persons think that what I have done in science has + been much overrated, and I very often think so myself; but my comfort is + that I have never consciously done anything to gain applause. Enough and + too much about my dear self." + </p> + <p> + Among such expressions of regard he valued very highly the two + photographic albums received from Germany and Holland on his birthday, + 1877. Herr Emil Rade of Munster, originated the idea of the German + birthday gift, and undertook the necessary arrangements. To him my father + wrote (February 16, 1877):— + </p> + <p> + "I hope that you will inform the one hundred and fifty-four men of + science, including some of the most highly honoured names in the world, + how grateful I am for their kindness and generous sympathy in having sent + me their photographs on my birthday." + </p> + <p> + To Professor Haeckel he wrote (February 16, 1877):— + </p> + <p> + The album has just arrived quite safe. It is most superb. (The album is + magnificently bound and decorated with a beautifully illuminated title + page, the work of an artist, Herr A. Fitger of Bremen, who also + contributed the dedicatory poem.) It is by far the greatest honour which I + have ever received, and my satisfaction has been greatly enhanced by your + most kind letter of February 9... I thank you all from my heart. I have + written by this post to Herr Rade, and I hope he will somehow manage to + thank all my generous friends." + </p> + <p> + To Professor A. van Bemmelen he wrote, on receiving a similar present from + a number of distinguished men and lovers of Natural History in the + Netherlands:— + </p> + <p> + "Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received yesterday the magnificent present of the album, together with + your letter. I hope that you will endeavour to find some means to express + to the two hundred and seventeen distinguished observers and lovers of + natural science, who have sent me their photographs, my gratitude for + their extreme kindness. I feel deeply gratified by this gift, and I do not + think that any testimonial more honourable to me could have been imagined. + I am well aware that my books could never have been written, and would not + have made any impression on the public mind, had not an immense amount of + material been collected by a long series of admirable observers; and it is + to them that honour is chiefly due. I suppose that every worker at science + occasionally feels depressed, and doubts whether what he has published has + been worth the labour which it has cost him, but for the few remaining + years of my life, whenever I want cheering, I will look at the portraits + of my distinguished co-workers in the field of science, and remember their + generous sympathy. When I die, the album will be a most precious bequest + to my children. I must further express my obligation for the very + interesting history contained in your letter of the progress of opinion in + the Netherlands, with respect to Evolution, the whole of which is quite + new to me. I must again thank all my kind friends, from my heart, for + their ever-memorable testimonial, and I remain, Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your obliged and grateful servant, CHARLES R. DARWIN." + </p> + <p> + [In the June of the following year (1878) he was gratified by learning + that the Emperor of Brazil had expressed a wish to meet him. Owing to + absence from home my father was unable to comply with this wish; he wrote + to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "The Emperor has done so much for science, that every scientific man is + bound to show him the utmost respect, and I hope that you will express in + the strongest language, and which you can do with entire truth, how + greatly I feel honoured by his wish to see me; and how much I regret my + absence from home." + </p> + <p> + Finally it should be mentioned that in 1880 he received an address + personally presented by members of the Council of the Birmingham + Philosophical Society, as well as a memorial from the Yorkshire Naturalist + Union presented by some of the members, headed by Dr. Sorby. He also + received in the same year a visit from some of the members of the Lewisham + and Blackheath Scientific Association,—a visit which was, I think, + enjoyed by both guests and host.] + </p> + <p> + MISCELLANEOUS LETTERS—1876-1882. + </p> + <p> + [The chief incident of a personal kind (not already dealt with) in the + years which we are now considering was the death of his brother Erasmus, + who died at his house in Queen Anne Street, on August 26th, 1881. My + father wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker (August 30):— + </p> + <p> + "The death of Erasmus is a very heavy loss to all of us, for he had a most + affectionate disposition. He always appeared to me the most pleasant and + clearest headed man, whom I have ever known. London will seem a strange + place to me without his presence; I am deeply glad that he died without + any great suffering, after a very short illness from mere weakness and not + from any definite disease. ("He was not, I think, a happy man, and for + many years did not value life, though never complaining."—From a + letter to Sir Thomas Farrer.) + </p> + <p> + "I cannot quite agree with you about the death of the old and young. Death + in the latter case, when there is a bright future ahead, causes grief + never to be wholly obliterated." + </p> + <p> + An incident of a happy character may also be selected for especial notice, + since it was one which strongly moved my father's sympathy. A letter + (December 17, 1879) to Sir Joseph Hooker shows that the possibility of a + Government Pension being conferred on Mr. Wallace first occurred to my + father at this time. The idea was taken up by others, and my father's + letters show that he felt the most lively interest in the success of the + plan. He wrote, for instance, to Mrs. Fisher, "I hardly ever wished for + anything more than I do for the success of our plan." He was deeply + pleased when this thoroughly deserved honour was bestowed on his friend, + and wrote to the same correspondent (January 7, 1881), on receiving a + letter from Mr. Gladstone announcing the fact: "How extraordinarily kind + of Mr. Gladstone to find time to write under the present circumstances. + (Mr. Gladstone was then in office, and the letter must have been written + when he was overwhelmed with business connected with the opening of + Parliament (January 6). Good heavens! how pleased I am!" + </p> + <p> + The letters which follow are of a miscellaneous character and refer + principally to the books he read, and to his minor writings.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MISS BUCKLEY (MRS. FISHER). Down, February 11 + [1876]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Miss Buckley, + </p> + <p> + You must let me have the pleasure of saying that I have just finished + reading with very great interest your new book. ('A Short History of + Natural Science.') The idea seems to me a capital one, and as far as I can + judge very well carried out. There is much fascination in taking a bird's + eye view of all the grand leading steps in the progress of science. At + first I regretted that you had not kept each science more separate; but I + dare say you found it impossible. I have hardly any criticisms, except + that I think you ought to have introduced Murchison as a great classifier + of formations, second only to W. Smith. You have done full justice, and + not more than justice, to our dear old master, Lyell. Perhaps a little + more ought to have been said about botany, and if you should ever add + this, you would find Sachs' 'History,' lately published, very good for + your purpose. + </p> + <p> + You have crowned Wallace and myself with much honour and glory. I heartily + congratulate you on having produced so novel and interesting a work, and + remain, + </p> + <p> + My dear Miss Buckley, yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A.R. WALLACE. [Hopedene] (Mr. Hensleigh + Wedgwood's house in Surrey.), June 5, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, + </p> + <p> + I must have the pleasure of expressing to you my unbounded admiration of + your book ('Geographical Distribution,' 1876.), though I have read only to + page 184—my object having been to do as little as possible while + resting. I feel sure that you have laid a broad and safe foundation for + all future work on Distribution. How interesting it will be to see + hereafter plants treated in strict relation to your views; and then all + insects, pulmonate molluscs and fresh-water fishes, in greater detail than + I suppose you have given to these lower animals. The point which has + interested me most, but I do not say the most valuable point, is your + protest against sinking imaginary continents in a quite reckless manner, + as was stated by Forbes, followed, alas, by Hooker, and caricatured by + Wollaston and [Andrew] Murray! By the way, the main impression that the + latter author has left on my mind is his utter want of all scientific + judgment. I have lifted up my voice against the above view with no avail, + but I have no doubt that you will succeed, owing to your new arguments and + the coloured chart. Of a special value, as it seems to me, is the + conclusion that we must determine the areas, chiefly by the nature of the + mammals. When I worked many years ago on this subject, I doubted much + whether the now called Palaearctic and Nearctic regions ought to be + separated; and I determined if I made another region that it should be + Madagascar. I have, therefore, been able to appreciate your evidence on + these points. What progress Palaeontology has made during the last 20 + years; but if it advances at the same rate in the future, our views on the + migration and birth-place of the various groups will, I fear, be greatly + altered. I cannot feel quite easy about the Glacial period, and the + extinction of large mammals, but I must hope that you are right. I think + you will have to modify your belief about the difficulty of dispersal of + land molluscs; I was interrupted when beginning to experimentize on the + just hatched young adhering to the feet of groun-roosting birds. I differ + on one other point, viz. in the belief that there must have existed a + Tertiary Antarctic continent, from which various forms radiated to the + southern extremities of our present continents. But I could go on + scribbling forever. You have written, as I believe, a grand and memorable + work which will last for years as the foundation for all future treatises + on Geographical Distribution. + </p> + <p> + My dear Wallace, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—You have paid me the highest conceivable compliment, by what + you say of your work in relation to my chapters on distribution in the + 'Origin,' and I heartily thank you for it. + </p> + <p> + [The following letters illustrate my father's power of taking a vivid + interest in work bearing on Evolution, but unconnected with his own + special researches at the time. The books referred to in the first letter + are Professor Weismann's 'Studien zur Descendenzlehre' (My father + contributed a prefatory note to Mr. Meldola's translation of Prof. + Weismann's 'Studien,' 1880-81.), being part of the series of essays by + which the author has done such admirable service to the cause of + evolution:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO AUGUST WEISMANN. January 12, 1877. + </p> + <p> + ... I read German so slowly, and have had lately to read several other + papers, so that I have as yet finished only half of your first essay and + two-thirds of your second. They have excited my interest and admiration in + the highest degree, and whichever I think of last, seems to me the most + valuable. I never expected to see the coloured marks on caterpillars so + well explained; and the case of the ocelli delights me especially... + </p> + <p> + ... There is one other subject which has always seemed to me more + difficult to explain than even the colours of caterpillars, and that is + the colour of birds' eggs, and I wish you would take this up. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MELCHIOR NEUMAYR (Professor of Palaeontology + at Vienna.), VIENNA. Down, Beckenham, Kent, March 9, 1877. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + From having been obliged to read other books, I finished only yesterday + your essay on 'Die Congerien,' etc. ('Die Congerien und Paludinenschichten + Slavoneins.' 4to, 1875.) + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will allow me to express my gratitude for the pleasure and + instruction which I have derived from reading it. It seems to me to be an + admirable work; and is by far the best case which I have ever met with, + showing the direct influence of the conditions of life on the + organization. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hyatt, who has been studying the Hilgendorf case, writes to me with + respect to the conclusions at which he has arrived, and these are nearly + the same as yours. He insists that closely similar forms may be derived + from distinct lines of descent; and this is what I formerly called + analogical variation. There can now be no doubt that species may become + greatly modified through the direct action of the environment. I have some + excuse for not having formerly insisted more strongly on this head in my + 'Origin of Species,' as most of the best facts have been observed since + its publication. + </p> + <p> + With my renewed thanks for your most interesting essay, and with the + highest respect, I remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO E.S. MORSE. Down, April 23, 1877. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + You must allow me just to tell you how very much I have been interested + with the excellent Address ("What American Zoologists have done for + Evolution," an Address to the American Association for the Advancement of + Science, August, 1876. Volume xxv. of the Proceedings of the Association.) + which you have been so kind as to send me, and which I had much wished to + read. I believe that I had read all, or very nearly all, the papers by + your countrymen to which you refer, but I have been fairly astonished at + their number and importance when seeing them thus put together. I quite + agree about the high value of Mr. Allen's works (Mr. J.A. Allen shows the + existence of geographical races of birds and mammals. Proc. Boston Soc. + Nat. Hist. volume xv.), as showing how much change may be expected + apparently through the direct action of the conditions of life. As for the + fossil remains in the West, no words will express how wonderful they are. + There is one point which I regret that you did not make clear in your + Address, namely what is the meaning and importance of Professors Cope and + Hyatt's views on acceleration and retardation. I have endeavoured, and + given up in despair, the attempt to grasp their meaning. + </p> + <p> + Permit me to thank you cordially for the kind feeling shown towards me + through your Address, and I remain, my dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter refers to his 'Biographical Sketch of an Infant,' written + from notes made 37 years previously, and published in 'Mind,' July, 1877. + The article attracted a good deal of attention, and was translated at the + time in 'Kosmos,' and the 'Revue Scientifique,' and has been recently + published in Dr. Krause's 'Gesammelte kleinere SchrifteN von Charles + Darwin,' 1887:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G. CROOM ROBERTSON. (The editor of 'Mind.') + Down, April 27, 1877. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I hope that you will be so good as to take the trouble to read the + enclosed MS., and if you think it fit for publication in your admirable + journal of 'Mind,' I shall be gratified. If you do not think it fit, as is + very likely, will you please to return it to me. I hope that you will read + it in an extra critical spirit, as I cannot judge whether it is worth + publishing from having been so much interested in watching the dawn of the + several faculties in my own infant. I may add that I should never have + thought of sending you the MS., had not M. Taine's article appeared in + your Journal. (1877, page 252. The original appeared in the 'Revue + Philosophique' 1876.) If my MS. is printed, I think that I had better see + a proof. + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Sir, Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The two following extracts show the lively interest he preserved in + diverse fields of enquiry. Professor Cohn of Breslau had mentioned, in a + letter, Koch's researches on Splenic Fever, my father replied, January 3:— + </p> + <p> + "I well remember saying to myself, between twenty and thirty years ago, + that if ever the origin of any infectious disease could be proved, it + would be the greatest triumph to science; and now I rejoice to have seen + the triumph." + </p> + <p> + In the spring he received a copy of Dr. E. von Mojsisovics' 'Dolomit + Riffe,' his letter to the author (June 1, 1878) is interesting as bearing + on the influence of his own work on the methods of geology. + </p> + <p> + "I have at last found time to read the first chapter of your 'Dolomit + Riffe,' and have been EXCEEDINGLY interested by it. What a wonderful + change in the future of Geological chronology you indicate, by assuming + the descent theory to be established, and then taking the graduated + changes of the same group of organisms as the true standard! I never hoped + to live to see such a step even proposed by any one." + </p> + <p> + Another geological research which roused my father's admiration was Mr. D. + Mackintosh's work on erratic blocks. Apart from its intrinsic merit the + work keenly excited his sympathy from the conditions under which it was + executed, Mr. Mackintosh being compelled to give nearly his whole time to + tuition. The following passage is from a letter to Mr. Mackintosh of + October 9, 1879, and refers to his paper in the Journal of the Geological + Society, 1878:— + </p> + <p> + "I hope that you will allow me to have the pleasure of thanking you for + the very great pleasure which I have derived from just reading your paper + on erratic blocks. The map is wonderful, and what labour each of those + lines show! I have thought for some years that the agency of floating ice, + which nearly half a century ago was overrated, has of late been + underrated. You are the sole man who has ever noticed the distinction + suggested by me (In his paper on the 'Ancient Glaciers of Carnarvonshire,' + Phil. Mag. xxi. 1842.) between flat or planed scored rocks, and + mammillated scored rocks."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO C. RIDLEY. Down, November 28, 1878. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I just skimmed through Dr. Pusey's sermon, as published in the "Guardian", + but it did [not] seem to me worthy of any attention. As I have never + answered criticisms excepting those made by scientific men, I am not + willing that this letter should be published; but I have no objection to + your saying that you sent me the three questions, and that I answered that + Dr. Pusey was mistaken in imagining that I wrote the 'Origin' with any + relation whatever to Theology. I should have thought that this would have + been evident to any one who had taken the trouble to read the book, more + especially as in the opening lines of the introduction I specify how the + subject arose in my mind. This answer disposes of your two other + questions; but I may add that many years ago, when I was collecting facts + for the 'Origin,' my belief in what is called a personal God was as firm + as that of Dr. Pusey himself, and as to the eternity of matter I have + never troubled myself about such insoluble questions. Dr. Pusey's attack + will be as powerless to retard by a day the belief in Evolution, as were + the virulent attacks made by divines fifty years ago against Geology, and + the still older ones of the Catholic Church against Galileo, for the + public is wise enough always to follow Scientific men when they agree on + any subject; and now there is almost complete unanimity amongst Biologists + about Evolution, though there is still considerable difference as to the + means, such as how far natural selection has acted, and how far external + conditions, or whether there exists some mysterious innate tendency to + perfectability. I remain, dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [Theologians were not the only adversaries of freedom in science. On + September 22, 1877, Prof. Virchow delivered an address at the Munich + meeting of German Naturalists and Physicians, which had the effect of + connecting Socialism with the Descent theory. This point of view was taken + up by anti-evolutionists to such an extent that, according to Haeckel, the + "Kreuz Zeitung" threw "all the blame of" the "treasonable attempts of the + democrats Hodel and Nobiling... directly on the theory of Descent." Prof. + Haeckel replied with vigour and ability in his 'Freedom in Science and + Teaching' (English Translation 1879), an essay which must have the + sympathy of all lovers of freedom. + </p> + <p> + The following passage from a letter (December 26, 1879) to Dr. Scherzer, + the author of the 'Voyage of the "Novara",' gives a hint of my father's + views on this once burning question:— + </p> + <p> + "What a foolish idea seems to prevail in Germany on the connection between + Socialism and Evolution through Natural Selection."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.N. MOSELEY. (Professor of Zoology at Oxford. + The book alluded to is Prof. Moseley's 'Notes by a Naturalist on the + "Challenger".') Down, January 20, 1879. + </p> + <p> + Dear Moseley, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your book, and I declare that never in my life have I + seen a dedication which I admired so much. ("To Charles Darwin, Esquire, + LL.D., F.R.S., etc., from the study of whose 'Journal of Researches' I + mainly derived my desire to travel round the world; to the development of + whose theory I owe the principal pleasures and interests of my life, and + who has personally given me much kindly encouragement in the prosecution + of my studies, this book is, by permission, gratefully dedicated.") Of + course I am not a fair judge, but I hope that I speak dispassionately, + though you have touched me in my very tenderest point, by saying that my + old Journal mainly gave you the wish to travel as a Naturalist. I shall + begin to read your book this very evening, and am sure that I shall enjoy + it much. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H.N. MOSELEY. Down, February 4, 1879. + </p> + <p> + Dear Moseley, + </p> + <p> + I have at last read every word of your book, and it has excited in me + greater interest than any other scientific book which I have read for a + long time. You will perhaps be surprised how slow I have been, but my head + prevents me reading except at intervals. If I were asked which parts have + interested me most, I should be somewhat puzzled to answer. I fancy that + the general reader would prefer your account of Japan. For myself I + hesitate between your discussions and description of the Southern ice, + which seems to me admirable, and the last chapter which contained many + facts and views new to me, though I had read your papers on the stony + Hydroid Corals, yet your resume made me realise better than I had done + before, what a most curious case it is. + </p> + <p> + You have also collected a surprising number of valuable facts bearing on + the dispersal of plants, far more than in any other book known to me. In + fact your volume is a mass of interesting facts and discussions, with + hardly a superfluous word; and I heartily congratulate you on its + publication. + </p> + <p> + Your dedication makes me prouder than ever. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In November, 1879, he answered for Mr. Galton a series of questions + utilised in his 'Inquiries into Human Faculty,' 1883. He wrote to Mr. + Galton:— + </p> + <p> + "I have answered the questions as well as I could, but they are miserably + answered, for I have never tried looking into my own mind. Unless others + answer very much better than I can do, you will get no good from your + queries. Do you not think you ought to have the age of the answerer? I + think so, because I can call up faces of many schoolboys, not seen for + sixty years, with MUCH DISTINCTNESS, but nowadays I may talk with a man + for an hour, and see him several times consecutively, and, after a month, + I am utterly unable to recollect what he is at all like. The picture is + quite washed out. The greater number of the answers are given in the + annexed table."] + </p> + <p> + QUESTIONS ON THE FACULTY OF VISUALISING. + </p> + <p> + 1. ILLUMINATION? Moderate, but my solitary breakfast was early, and the + morning dark. + </p> + <p> + 2. DEFINITION? Some objects quite defined, a slice of cold beef, some + grapes and a pear, the state of my plate when I had finished, and a few + other objects, are as distinct as if I had photo's before me. + </p> + <p> + 3. COMPLETENESS? Very moderately so. + </p> + <p> + 4. COLOURING? The objects above named perfectly coloured. + </p> + <p> + 5. EXTENT OF FIELD OF VIEW? Rather small. + </p> + <p> + DIFFERENT KINDS OF IMAGERY. + </p> + <p> + 6. PRINTED PAGES. I cannot remember a single sentence, but I remember the + place of the sentence and the kind of type. + </p> + <p> + 7. FURNITURE? I have never attended to it. + </p> + <p> + 8. PERSONS? I remember the faces of persons formerly well-known vividly, + and can make them do anything I like. + </p> + <p> + 9. SCENERY? Remembrance vivid and distinct, and gives me pleasure. + </p> + <p> + 10. GEOGRAPHY? No. + </p> + <p> + 11. MILITARY MOVEMENTS? No. + </p> + <p> + 12. MECHANISM? Never tried. + </p> + <p> + 13. GEOMETRY? I do not think I have any power of the kind. + </p> + <p> + 14. NUMERALS? When I think of any number, printed figures arise before my + mind. I can't remember for an hour four consecutive figures. + </p> + <p> + 15. CARD PLAYING? Have not played for many years, but I am sure should not + remember. + </p> + <p> + 16. CHESS? Never played. + </p> + <p> + [In 1880 he published a short paper in 'Nature' (volume xxi. page 207) on + the "Fertility of Hybrids from the common and Chinese goose." He received + the hybrids from the Rev. Dr. Goodacre, and was glad of the opportunity of + testing the accuracy of the statement that these species are fertile inter + se. This fact, which was given in the 'Origin' on the authority of Mr. + Eyton, he considered the most remarkable as yet recorded with respect to + the fertility of hybrids. The fact (as confirmed by himself and Dr. + Goodacre) is of interest as giving another proof that sterility is no + criterion of specific difference, since the two species of goose now shown + to be fertile inter se are so distinct that they have been placed by some + authorities in distinct genera or sub-genera. + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to Mr. Huxley's lecture: "The Coming of Age of + the Origin of Species" (This same "Coming of Age" was the subject of an + address from the Council of the Otago Institute. It is given in 'Nature,' + February 24, 1881.), given at the Royal Institution, April 9, 1880, + published in 'Nature,' and in 'Science and Culture,' page 310:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Abinger Hall, Dorking, Sunday, + April 11, 1880. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + I wished much to attend your Lecture, but I have had a bad cough, and we + have come here to see whether a change would do me good, as it has done. + What a magnificent success your lecture seems to have been, as I judge + from the reports in the "Standard" and "Daily News", and more especially + from the accounts given me by three of my children. I suppose that you + have not written out your lecture, so I fear there is no chance of its + being printed in extenso. You appear to have piled, as on so many other + occasions, honours high and thick on my old head. But I well know how + great a part you have played in establishing and spreading the belief in + the descen-theory, ever since that grand review in the "Times" and the + battle royal at Oxford up to the present day. + </p> + <p> + Ever my dear Huxley, Yours sincerely and gratefully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—It was absurdly stupid in me, but I had read the announcement + of your Lecture, and thought that you meant the maturity of the subject, + until my wife one day remarked, "it is almost twenty-one years since the + 'Origin' appeared," and then for the first time the meaning of your words + flashed on me! + </p> + <p> + [In the above-mentioned lecture Mr. Huxley made a strong point of the + accumulation of palaeontological evidence which the years between 1859 and + 1880 have given us in favour of Evolution. On this subject my father wrote + (August 31, 1880):] + </p> + <p> + My dear Professor Marsh, + </p> + <p> + I received some time ago your very kind note of July 28th, and yesterday + the magnificent volume. (Odontornithes. A Monograph on the extinct Toothed + Birds of North America. 1880. By O.C. Marsh.) I have looked with renewed + admiration at the plates, and will soon read the text. Your work on these + old birds, and on the many fossil animals of North America has afforded + the best support to the theory of Evolution, which has appeared within the + last twenty years. (Mr. Huxley has well pointed out ('Science and + Culture,' page 317) that: "In 1875, the discovery of the toothed birds of + the cretaceous formation in North America, by Prof. Marsh, completed the + series of transitional forms between birds and reptiles, and removed Mr. + Darwin's proposition that, 'many animal forms of life have been utterly + lost, through which the early progenitors of birds were formerly connected + with the early progenitors of the other vertebrate classes,' from the + region of hypothesis to that of demonstrable fact.") The general + appearance of the copy which you have sent me is worthy of its contents, + and I can say nothing stronger than this. + </p> + <p> + With cordial thanks, believe me, Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In November, 1880, he received an account of a flood in Brazil, from + which his friend Fritz Muller had barely escaped with his life. My father + immediately wrote to Hermann Muller anxiously enquiring whether his + brother had lost books, instruments, etc., by this accident, and begging + in that case "for the sake of science, so that science should not suffer," + to be allowed to help in making good the loss. Fortunately, however, the + injury to Fritz Muller's possessions was not so great as was expected, and + the incident remains only as a memento, which I trust cannot be otherwise + than pleasing to the survivor, of the friendship of the two naturalists. + </p> + <p> + In 'Nature' (November 11, 1880) appeared a letter from my father, which + is, I believe, the only instance in which he wrote publicly with anything + like severity. The late Sir Wyville Thomson wrote, in the Introduction to + the 'Voyage of the "Challenger"': "The character of the abyssal fauna + refuses to give the least support to the theory which refers the evolution + of species to extreme variation guided only by natural selection." My + father, after characterising these remarks as a "standard of criticism, + not uncommonly reached by theologians and metaphysicians," goes on to take + exception to the term "extreme variation," and challenges Sir Wyville to + name any one who has "said that the evolution of species depends only on + natural selection." The letter closes with an imaginary scene between Sir + Wyville and a breeder, in which Sir Wyville criticises artificial + selection in a somewhat similar manner. The breeder is silent, but on the + departure of his critic he is supposed to make use of "emphatic but + irreverent language about naturalists." The letter, as originally written, + ended with a quotation from Sedgwick on the invulnerability of those who + write on what they do not understand, but this was omitted on the advice + of a friend, and curiously enough a friend whose combativeness in the good + cause my father had occasionally curbed.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G.J. ROMANES. Down, April 16, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Romanes, + </p> + <p> + My MS. on 'Worms' has been sent to the printers, so I am going to amuse + myself by scribbling to you on a few points; but you must not waste your + time in answering at any length this scribble. + </p> + <p> + Firstly, your letter on intelligence was very useful to me and I tor up + and re-wrote what I sent to you. I have not attempted to define + intelligence; but have quoted your remarks on experience, and have shown + how far they apply to worms. It seems to me that they must be said to work + with some intelligence, anyhow they are not guided by a blind instinct. + </p> + <p> + Secondly, I was greatly interested by the abstract in 'Nature' of your + work on Echinoderms ("On the locomotor system of Echinoderms," by G.J. + Romanes and J. Cossar Ewart. 'Philosophical Transactions,' 1881, page + 829.), the complexity with simplicity, and with such curious co-ordination + of the nervous system is marvellous; and you showed me before what + splendid gymnastic feats they can perform. + </p> + <p> + Thirdly, Dr. Roux has sent me a book just published by him: 'Der Kampf der + Theile,' etc., 1881 (240 pages in length). + </p> + <p> + He is manifestly a well-read physiologist and pathologist, and from his + position a good anatomist. It is full of reasoning, and this in German is + very difficult to me, so that I have only skimmed through each page; here + and there reading with a little more care. As far as I can imperfectly + judge, it is the most important book on Evolution, which has appeared for + some time. I believe that G.H. Lewes hinted at the same fundamental idea, + viz. that there is a struggle going on within every organism between the + organic molecules, the cells and the organs. I think that his basis is, + that every cell which best performs its function is, in consequence, at + the same time best nourished and best propagates its kind. The book does + not touch on mental phenomena, but there is much discussion on rudimentary + or atrophied parts, to which subject you formerly attended. Now if you + would like to read this book, I would sent it... If you read it, and are + struck with it (but I may be WHOLLY mistaken about its value), you would + do a public service by analysing and criticising it in 'Nature.' + </p> + <p> + Dr. Roux makes, I think, a gigantic oversight in never considering plants; + these would simplify the problem for him. + </p> + <p> + Fourthly, I do not know whether you will discuss in your book on the mind + of animals any of the more complex and wonderful instincts. It is + unsatisfactory work, as there can be no fossilised instincts, and the sole + guide is their state in other members of the same order, and mere + PROBABILITY. + </p> + <p> + But if you do discuss any (and it will perhaps be expected of you), I + should think that you could not select a better case than that of the sand + wasps, which paralyse their prey, as formerly described by Fabre, in his + wonderful paper in the 'Annales des Sciences,' and since amplified in his + admirable 'Souvenirs.' + </p> + <p> + Whilst reading this latter book, I speculated a little on the subject. + Astonishing nonsense is often spoken of the sand wasp's knowledge of + anatomy. Now will any one say that the Gauchos on the plains of La Plata + have such knowledge, yet I have often seen them pith a struggling and + lassoed cow on the ground with unerring skill, which no mere anatomist + could imitate. The pointed knife was infallibly driven in between the + vertebrae by a single slight thrust. I presume that the art was first + discovered by chance, and that each young Gaucho sees exactly how the + others do it, and then with a very little practice learns the art. Now I + suppose that the sand wasps originally merely killed their prey by + stinging them in many places (see page 129 of Fabre's 'Souvenirs,' and + page 241) on the lower and softest side of the body—and that to + sting a certain segment was found by far the most successful method; and + was inherited like the tendency of a bulldog to pin the nose of a bull, or + of a ferret to bite the cerebellum. It would not be a very great step in + advance to prick the ganglion of its prey only slightly, and thus to give + its larvae fresh meat instead of old dried meat. Though Fabre insists so + strongly on the unvarying character of instinct, yet it is shown that + there is some variability, as at pages 176, 177. + </p> + <p> + I fear that I shall have utterly wearied you with my scribbling and bad + handwriting. + </p> + <p> + My dear Romanes, yours, very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + POSTSCRIPT OF A LETTER TO PROFESSOR A. AGASSIZ, MAY 5TH, 1881:— + </p> + <p> + I read with much interest your address before the American Association. + However true your remarks on the genealogies of the several groups may be, + I hope and believe that you have over-estimated the difficulties to be + encountered in the future:—A few days after reading your address, I + interpreted to myself your remarks on one point (I hope in some degree + correctly) in the following fashion:— + </p> + <p> + Any character of an ancient, generalised, or intermediate form may, and + often does, re-appear in its descendants, after countless generations, and + this explains the extraordinarily complicated affinities of existing + groups. This idea seems to me to throw a flood of light on the lines, + sometimes used to represent affinities, which radiate in all directions, + often to very distant sub-groups,—a difficulty which has haunted me + for half a century. A strong case could be made out in favour of believing + in such reversion after immense intervals of time. I wish the idea had + been put into my head in old days, for I shall never again write on + difficult subjects, as I have seen too many cases of old men becoming + feeble in their minds, without being in the least conscious of it. If I + have interpreted your ideas at all correctly, I hope that you will + re-urge, on any fitting occasion, your view. I have mentioned it to a few + persons capable of judging, and it seemed quite new to them. I beg you to + forgive the proverbial garrulity of old age. + </p> + <p> + C.D. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to Sir J.D. Hooker's Geographical address at + the York Meeting (1881) of the British Association:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, August 6, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + For Heaven's sake never speak of boring me, as it would be the greatest + pleasure to aid you in the slightest degree and your letter has interested + me exceedingly. I will go through your points seriatim, but I have never + attended much to the history of any subject, and my memory has become + atrociously bad. It will therefore be a mere chance whether any of my + remarks are of any use. + </p> + <p> + Your idea, to show what travellers have done, seems to me a brilliant and + just one, especially considering your audience. + </p> + <p> + 1. I know nothing about Tournefort's works. + </p> + <p> + 2. I believe that you are fully right in calling Humboldt the greatest + scientific traveller who ever lived, I have lately read two or three + volumes again. His Geology is funny stuff; but that merely means that he + was not in advance of his age. I should say he was wonderful, more for his + near approach to omniscience than for originality. Whether or not his + position as a scientific man is as eminent as we think, you might truly + call him the parent of a grand progeny of scientific travellers, who, + taken together, have done much for science. + </p> + <p> + 3. It seems to me quite just to give Lyell (and secondarily E. Forbes) a + very prominent place. + </p> + <p> + 4. Dana was, I believe, the first man who maintained the permanence of + continents and the great oceans... When I read the 'Challenger's' + conclusion that sediment from the land is not deposited at greater + distances than 200 or 300 miles from the land, I was much strengthened in + my old belief. Wallace seems to me to have argued the case excellently. + Nevertheless, I would speak, if I were in your place, rather cautiously; + for T. Mellard Reade has argued lately with some force against the view; + but I cannot call to mind his arguments. If forced to express a judgment, + I should abide by the view of approximate permanence since Cambrian days. + </p> + <p> + 5. The extreme importance of the Arctic fossil-plants, is self-evident. + Take the opportunity of groaning over [our] ignorance of the Lignite + Plants of Kerguelen Land, or any Antarctic land. It might do good. + </p> + <p> + 6. I cannot avoid feeling sceptical about the travelling of plants from + the North EXCEPT DURING THE TERTIARY PERIOD. It may of course have been so + and probably was so from one of the two poles at the earliest period, + during Pre-Cambrian ages; but such speculations seem to me hardly + scientific seeing how little we know of the old Floras. + </p> + <p> + I will now jot down without any order a few miscellaneous remarks. + </p> + <p> + I think you ought to allude to Alph. De Candolle's great book, for though + it (like almost everything else) is washed out of my mind, yet I remember + most distinctly thinking it a very valuable work. Anyhow, you might allude + to his excellent account of the history of all cultivated plants. + </p> + <p> + How shall you manage to allude to your New Zealand and Tierra del Fuego + work? if you do not allude to them you will be scandalously unjust. + </p> + <p> + The many Angiosperm plants in the Cretacean beds of the United States (and + as far as I can judge the age of these beds has been fairly well made out) + seems to me a fact of very great importance, so is their relation to the + existing flora of the United States under an Evolutionary point of view. + Have not some Australian extinct forms been lately found in Australia? or + have I dreamed it? + </p> + <p> + Again, the recent discovery of plants rather low down in our Silurian beds + is very important. + </p> + <p> + Nothing is more extraordinary in the history of the Vegetable Kingdom, as + it seems to me, than the APPARENTLY very sudden or abrupt development of + the higher plants. I have sometimes speculated whether there did not exist + somewhere during long ages an extremely isolated continent, perhaps near + the South Pole. + </p> + <p> + Hence I was greatly interested by a view which Saporta propounded to me, a + few years ago, at great length in MS. and which I fancy he has since + published, as I urged him to do—viz., that as soon as + flower-frequenting insects were developed, during the latter part of the + secondary period, an enormous impulse was given to the development of the + higher plants by cross-fertilization being thus suddenly formed. + </p> + <p> + A few years ago I was much struck with Axel Blytt's Essay showing from + observation, on the peat beds in Scandinavia, that there had apparently + been long periods with more rain and other with less rain (perhaps + connected with Croll's recurrent astronomical periods), and that these + periods had largely determined the present distribution of the plants of + Norway and Sweden. This seemed to me, a very important essay. + </p> + <p> + I have just read over my remarks and I fear that they will not be of the + slightest use to you. + </p> + <p> + I cannot but think that you have got through the hardest, or at least the + most difficult, part of your work in having made so good and striking a + sketch of what you intend to say; but I can quite understand how you must + groan over the great necessary labour. + </p> + <p> + I most heartily sympathise with you on the successes of B. and R.: as + years advance what happens to oneself becomes of very little consequence, + in comparison with the careers of our children. + </p> + <p> + Keep your spirits up, for I am convinced that you will make an excellent + address. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, affectionately, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In September he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "I have this minute finished reading your splendid but too short address. + I cannot doubt that it will have been fully appreciated by the Geographers + of York; if not, they are asses and fools."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JOHN LUBBOCK. Sunday evening [1881]. + </p> + <p> + My dear L., + </p> + <p> + Your address (Presidential Address at the York meeting of the British + Association.) has made me think over what have been the great steps in + Geology during the last fifty years, and there can be no harm in telling + you my impression. But it is very odd that I cannot remember what you have + said on Geology. I suppose that the classification of the Silurian and + Cambrian formations must be considered the greatest or most important + step; for I well remember when all these older rocks were called + grau-wacke, and nobody dreamed of classing them; and now we have three + azoic formations pretty well made out beneath the Cambrian! But the most + striking step has been the discovery of the Glacial period: you are too + young to remember the prodigious effect this produced about the year 1840 + (?) on all our minds. Elie de Beaumont never believed in it to the day of + his death! the study of the glacial deposits led to the study of the + superficial drift, which was formerly NEVER STUDIED and called Diluvium, + as I well remember. The study under the microscope of rock-sections is + another not inconsiderable step. So again the making out of cleavage and + the foliation of the metamorphic rocks. But I will not run on, having now + eased my mind. Pray do not waste even one minute in acknowledging my + horrid scrawls. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following extracts referring to the late Francis Maitland Balfour + (Professor of Animal Morphology at Cambridge. He was born in 1851, and was + killed, with his guide, on the Aiguille Blanche, near Courmayeur, in July, + 1882.), show my father's estimate of his work and intellectual qualities, + but they give merely an indication of his strong appreciation of Balfour's + most lovable personal character:— + </p> + <p> + From a letter to Fritz Muller, January 5, 1882:— + </p> + <p> + "Your appreciation of Balfour's book ['Comparative Embryology'] has + pleased me excessively, for though I could not properly judge of it, yet + it seemed to me one of the most remarkable books which have been published + for some considerable time. He is quite a young man, and if he keeps his + health, will do splendid work... He has a fair fortune of his own, so that + he can give up his whole time to Biology. He is very modest, and very + pleasant, and often visits here and we like him very much." + </p> + <p> + From a letter to Dr. Dohrn, February 13, 1882:— + </p> + <p> + "I have got one very bad piece of news to tell you, that F. Balfour is + very ill at Cambridge with typhoid fever... I hope that he is not in a + very dangerous state; but the fever is severe. Good Heavens, what a loss + he would be to Science, and to his many loving friends!"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. HUXLEY. Down, January 12, 1882. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Very many thanks for 'Science and Culture,' and I am sure that I shall + read most of the essays with much interest. With respect to Automatism + ("On the hypothesis that animals are automata and its history," an Address + given at the Belfast meeting of the British Association, 1874, and + published in the 'Fortnightly Review,' 1874, and in 'Science and + Culture.'), I wish that you could review yourself in the old, and of + course forgotten, trenchant style, and then you would here answer yourself + with equal incisiveness; and thus, by Jove, you might go on ad infinitum, + to the joy and instruction of the world. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to Dr. Ogle's translation of Aristotle, 'On + the Parts of Animals' (1882):] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. OGLE. Down, February 22, 1882. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Ogle, + </p> + <p> + You must let me thank you for the pleasure which the introduction to the + Aristotle book has given me. I have rarely read anything which has + interested me more, though I have not read as yet more than a quarter of + the book proper. + </p> + <p> + From quotations which I had seen, I had a high notion of Aristotle's + merits, but I had not the most remote notion what a wonderful man he was. + Linnaeus and Cuvier have been my two gods, though in very different ways, + but they were mere schoolboys to old Aristotle. How very curious, also, + his ignorance on some points, as on muscles as the means of movement. I am + glad that you have explained in so probable a manner some of the grossest + mistakes attributed to him. I never realized, before reading your book, to + what an enormous summation of labour we owe even our common knowledge. I + wish old Aristotle could know what a grand Defender of the Faith he had + found in you. Believe me, my dear Dr. Ogle, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In February, he received a letter and a specimen from a Mr. W.D. Crick, + which illustrated a curious mode of dispersal of bivalve shells, namely, + by closure of their valves so as to hold on to the leg of a water-beetle. + This class of fact had a special charm for him, and he wrote to 'Nature,' + describing the case. ('Nature,' April 6, 1882.) + </p> + <p> + In April he received a letter from Dr. W. Van Dyck, Lecturer in Zoology at + the Protestant College of Beyrout. The letter showed that the street dogs + of Beyrout had been rapidly mongrelised by introduced European dogs, and + the facts have an interesting bearing on my father's theory of Sexual + Selection.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W.T. VAN DYCK. Down, April 3, 1882. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + After much deliberation, I have thought it best to send your very + interesting paper to the Zoological Society, in hopes that it will be + published in their Journal. This journal goes to every scientific + institution in the world, and the contents are abstracted in all + year-books on Zoology. Therefore I have preferred it to 'Nature,' though + the latter has a wider circulation, but is ephemeral. + </p> + <p> + I have prefaced your essay by a few general remarks, to which I hope that + you will not object. + </p> + <p> + Of course I do not know that the Zoological Society, which is much + addicted to mere systematic work, will publish your essay. If it does, I + will send you copies of your essay, but these will not be ready for some + months. If not published by the Zoological Society, I will endeavour to + get 'Nature' to publish it. I am very anxious that it should be published + and preserved. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, Yours faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The paper was read at a meeting of the Zoological Society on April 18th—the + day before my father's death. + </p> + <p> + The preliminary remarks with which Dr. Van Dyck's paper is prefaced are + thus the latest of my father's writings.] + </p> + <p> + We must now return to an early period of his life, and give a connected + account of his botanical work, which has hitherto been omitted. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.X. — FERTILISATION OF FLOWERS. + </h2> + <p> + [In the letters already given we have had occasion to notice the general + bearing of a number of botanical problems on the wider question of + Evolution. The detailed work in botany which my father accomplished by the + guidance of the light cast on the study of natural history by his own work + on Evolution remains to be noticed. In a letter to Mr. Murray, September + 24th, 1861, speaking of his book on the 'Fertilisation of Orchids,' he + says: "It will perhaps serve to illustrate how Natural History may be + worked under the belief of the modification of species." This remark gives + a suggestion as to the value and interest of his botanical work, and it + might be expressed in far more emphatic language without danger of + exaggeration. + </p> + <p> + In the same letter to Mr. Murray, he says: "I think this little volume + will do good to the 'Origin,' as it will show that I have worked hard at + details." It is true that his botanical work added a mass of corroborative + detail to the case for Evolution, but the chief support to his doctrines + given by these researches was of another kind. They supplied an argument + against those critics who have so freely dogmatised as to the uselessness + of particular structures, and as to the consequent impossibility of their + having been developed by means of natural selection. His observations on + Orchids enabled him to say: "I can show the meaning of some of the + apparently meaningless ridges, horns, who will now venture to say that + this or that structure is useless?" A kindred point is expressed in a + letter to Sir J.D. Hooker (May 14th, 1862:)— + </p> + <p> + "When many parts of structure, as in the woodpecker, show distinct + adaptation to external bodies, it is preposterous to attribute them to the + effects of climate, etc., but when a single point alone, as a hooked seed, + it is conceivable it may thus have arisen. I have found the study of + Orchids eminently useful in showing me how nearly all parts of the flower + are co-adapted for fertilization by insects, and therefore the results of + natural selection—even the most trifling details of structure." + </p> + <p> + One of the greatest services rendered by my father to the study of Natural + History is the revival of Teleology. The evolutionist studies the purpose + or meaning of organs with the zeal of the older Teleology, but with far + wider and more coherent purpose. He has the invigorating knowledge that he + is gaining not isolated conceptions of the economy of the present, but a + coherent view of both past and present. And even where he fails to + discover the use of any part, he may, by a knowledge of its structure, + unravel the history of the past vicissitudes in the life of the species. + In this way a vigour and unity is given to the study of the forms of + organised beings, which before it lacked. This point has already been + discussed in Mr. Huxley's chapter on the 'Reception of the "Origin of + Species",' and need not be here considered. It does, however, concern us + to recognize that this "great service to natural science," as Dr. Gray + describes it, was effected almost as much by his special botanical work as + by the 'Origin of Species.' + </p> + <p> + For a statement of the scope and influence of my father's botanical work, + I may refer to Mr. Thiselton Dyer's article in 'Charles Darwin,' one of + the "Nature Series". Mr. Dyer's wide knowledge, his friendship with my + father, and especially his power of sympathising with the work of others, + combine to give this essay a permanent value. The following passage (page + 43) gives a true picture:— + </p> + <p> + "Notwithstanding the extent and variety of his botanical work, Mr. Darwin + always disclaimed any right to be regarded as a professed botanist. He + turned his attention to plants, doubtless because they were convenient + objects for studying organic phenomena in their least complicated forms; + and this point of view, which, if one may use the expression without + disrespect, had something of the amateur about it, was in itself of the + greatest importance. For, from not being, till he took up any point, + familiar with the literature bearing on it, his mind was absolutely free + from any prepossession. He was never afraid of his facts, or of framing + any hypothesis, however startling, which seemed to explain them... In any + one else such an attitude would have produced much work that was crude and + rash. But Mr. Darwin—if one may venture on language which will + strike no one who had conversed with him as over-strained—seemed by + gentle persuasion to have penetrated that reserve of nature which baffles + smaller men. In other words, his long experience had given him a kind of + instinctive insight into the method of attack of any biological problem, + however unfamiliar to him, while he rigidly controlled the fertility of + his mind in hypothetical explanations by the no less fertility of + ingeniously devised experiment." + </p> + <p> + To form any just idea of the greatness of the revolution worked by my + father's researches in the study of the fertilisation of flowers, it is + necessary to know from what a condition this branch of knowledge has + emerged. It should be remembered that it was only during the early years + of the present century that the idea of sex, as applied to plants, became + at all firmly established. Sachs, in his 'History of Botany' (1875), has + given some striking illustrations of the remarkable slowness with which + its acceptance gained ground. He remarks that when we consider the + experimental proofs given by Camerarius (1694), and by Kolreuter + (1761-66), it appears incredible that doubts should afterwards have been + raised as to the sexuality of plants. Yet he shows that such doubts did + actually repeatedly crop up. These adverse criticisms rested for the most + part on careless experiments, but in many cases on a priori arguments. + Even as late as 1820, a book of this kind, which would now rank with + circle squaring, or flat-earth philosophy, was seriously noticed in a + botanical journal. + </p> + <p> + A distinct conception of sex as applied to plants, had not long emerged + from the mists of profitless discussion and feeble experiment, at the time + when my father began botany by attending Henslow's lectures at Cambridge. + </p> + <p> + When the belief in the sexuality of plants had become established as an + incontrovertible piece of knowledge, a weight of misconception remained, + weighing down any rational view of the subject. Camerarius (Sachs, + 'Geschichte,' page 419.) believed (naturally enough in his day) that + hermaphrodite flowers are necessarily self-fertilised. He had the wit to + be astonished at this, a degree of intelligence which, as Sachs points + out, the majority of his successors did not attain to. + </p> + <p> + The following extracts from a note-book show that this point occurred to + my father as early as 1837:— + </p> + <p> + "Do not plants which have male and female organs together [i.e. in the + same flower] yet receive influence from other plants? Does not Lyell give + some argument about varieties being difficult to keep [true] on account of + pollen from other plants? Because this may be applied to show all plants + do receive intermixture." + </p> + <p> + Sprengel (Christian Conrad Sprengel, 1750-1816.), indeed, understood that + the hermaphrodite structure of flowers by no means necessarily leads to + self-fertilisation. But although he discovered that in many cases pollen + is of necessity carried to the stigma of another FLOWER, he did not + understand that in the advantage gained by the intercrossing of distinct + PLANTS lies the key to the whole question. Hermann Muller has well + remarked that this "omission was for several generations fatal to + Sprengel's work... For both at the time and subsequently, botanists felt + above all the weakness of his theory, and they set aside, along with his + defective ideas, his rich store of patient and acute observations and his + comprehensive and accurate interpretations." It remained for my father to + convince the world that the meaning hidden in the structure of flowers was + to be found by seeking light in the same direction in which Sprengel, + seventy years before, had laboured. Robert Brown was the connecting link + between them, for it was at his recommendation that my father in 1841 read + Sprengel's now celebrated 'Secret of Nature Displayed.' ('Das entdeckte + Geheimniss der Natur im Baue und in der Befruchtung der Blumen.' Berlin, + 1793.) The book impressed him as being "full of truth," although "with + some little nonsense." It not only encouraged him in kindred speculation, + but guided him in his work, for in 1844 he speaks of verifying Sprengel's + observations. It may be doubted whether Robert Brown ever planted a more + beautiful seed than in putting such a book into such hands. + </p> + <p> + A passage in the 'Autobiography' (volume i.) shows how it was that my + father was attracted to the subject of fertilisation: "During the summer + of 1839, and I believe during the previous summer, I was led to attend to + the cross-fertilisation of flowers by the aid of insects, from having come + to the conclusion in my speculations on the origin of species, that + crossing played an important part in keeping specific forms constant." + </p> + <p> + The original connection between the study of flowers and the problem of + evolution is curious, and could hardly have been predicted. Moreover, it + was not a permanent bond. As soon as the idea arose that the offspring of + cross-fertilisation is, in the struggle for life, likely to conquer the + seedlings of self-fertilised parentage, a far more vigorous belief in the + potency of natural selection in moulding the structure of flowers is + attained. A central idea is gained towards which experiment and + observation may be directed. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Gray has well remarked with regard to this central idea ('Nature,' + June 4, 1874):—"The aphorism, 'Nature abhors a vacuum,' is a + characteristic specimen of the science of the middle ages. The aphorism, + Nature abhors close fertilisation,' and the demonstration of the + principle, belong to our age and to Mr. Darwin. To have originated this, + and also the principle of Natural Selection... and to have applied these + principles to the system of nature, in such a manner as to make, within a + dozen years, a deeper impression upon natural history than has been made + since Linnaeus, is ample title for one man's fame." + </p> + <p> + The flowers of the Papilionaceae attracted his attention early, and were + the subject of his first paper on fertilisation. ("Gardeners' Chronicle", + 1857, page 725. It appears that this paper was a piece of "over-time" + work. He wrote to a friend, "that confounded leguminous paper was done in + the afternoon, and the consequence was I had to go to Moor Park for a + week.") The following extract from an undated letter to Dr. Asa Gray seems + to have been written before the publication of this paper, probably in + 1856 or 1857:— + </p> + <p> + "... What you say on Papilionaceous flowers is very true; and I have no + facts to show that varieties are crossed; but yet (and the same remark is + applicable in a beautiful way to Fumaria and Dielytra, as I noticed many + years ago), I must believe that the flowers are constructed partly in + direct relation to the visits of insects; and how insects can avoid + bringing pollen from other individuals I cannot understand. It is really + pretty to watch the action of a Humble-bee on the scarlet kidney bean, and + in this genus (and in Lathyrus grandiflorus) the honey is so placed that + the bee invariably alights on that ONE side of the flower towards which + the spiral pistil is protruded (bringing out with it pollen), and by the + depression of the wing-petal is forced against the bee's side all dusted + with pollen. (If you will look at a bed of scarlet kidney beans you will + find that the wing-petals on the LEFT side alone are all scratched by the + tarsi of the bees. [Note in the original letter by C. Darwin.]) In the + broom the pistil is rubbed on the centre of the back of the bee. I suspect + there is something to be made out about the Leguminosae, which will bring + the case within OUR theory; though I have failed to do so. Our theory will + explain why in the vegetable and animal kingdom the act of fertilisation + even in hermaphrodites usually takes place sub-jove, though thus exposed + to GREAT injury from damp and rain. In animals which cannot be + [fertilised] by insects or wind, there is NO CASE of LAND-animals being + hermaphrodite without the concourse of two individuals." + </p> + <p> + A letter to Dr. Asa Gray (September 5th, 1857) gives the substance of the + paper in the "Gardeners' Chronicle":— + </p> + <p> + "Lately I was led to examine buds of kidney bean with the pollen shed; but + I was led to believe that the pollen could HARDLY get on the stigma by + wind or otherwise, except by bees visiting [the flower] and moving the + wing petals: hence I included a small bunch of flowers in two bottles in + every way treated the same: the flowers in one I daily just momentarily + moved, as if by a bee; these set three fine pods, the other NOT ONE. Of + course this little experiment must be tried again, and this year in + England it is too late, as the flowers seem now seldom to set. If bees are + necessary to this flower's self-fertilisation, bees must almost cross + them, as their dusted right-side of head and right legs constantly touch + the stigma. + </p> + <p> + "I have, also, lately been re-observing daily Lobelia fulgens—this + in my garden is never visited by insects, and never sets seeds, without + pollen be put on the stigma (whereas the small blue Lobelia is visited by + bees and does set seed); I mention this because there are such beautiful + contrivances to prevent the stigma ever getting its own pollen; which + seems only explicable on the doctrine of the advantage of crosses." + </p> + <p> + The paper was supplemented by a second in 1858. ("Gardeners' Chronicle", + 1858, page 828. In 1861 another paper on Fertilisation appeared in the + "Gardeners' Chronicle", page 552, in which he explained the action of + insects on Vinca major. He was attracted to the periwinkle by the fact + that it is not visited by insects and never set seeds.) The chief object + of these publications seems to have been to obtain information as to the + possibility of growing varieties of leguminous plants near each other, and + yet keeping them true. It is curious that the Papilionaceae should not + only have been the first flowers which attracted his attention by their + obvious adaptation to the visits of insects, but should also have + constituted one of his sorest puzzles. The common pea and the sweet pea + gave him much difficulty, because, although they are as obviously fitted + for insect-visits as the rest of the order, yet their varieties keep true. + The fact is that neither of these plants being indigenous, they are not + perfectly adapted for fertilisation by British insects. He could not, at + this stage of his observations, know that the co-ordination between a + flower and the particular insect which fertilises it may be as delicate as + that between a lock and its key, so that this explanation was not likely + to occur to him. (He was of course alive to variety in the habits of + insects. He published a short note in the "Entomologists Weekly + Intelligencer", 1860, asking whether the Tineina and other small moths + suck flowers.) + </p> + <p> + Besides observing the Leguminosae, he had already begun, as shown in the + foregoing extracts, to attend to the structure of other flowers in + relation to insects. At the beginning of 1860 he worked at Leschenaultia + (He published a short paper on the manner of fertilisation of this flower, + in the "Gardeners' Chronicle", 1871, page 1166.), which at first puzzled + him, but was ultimately made out. A passage in a letter chiefly relating + to Leschenaultia seems to show that it was only in the spring of 1860 that + he began widely to apply his knowledge to the relation of insects to other + flowers. This is somewhat surprising, when we remember that he had read + Sprengel many years before. He wrote (May 14):— + </p> + <p> + "I should look at this curious contrivance as specially related to visits + of insects; as I begin to think is almost universally the case." + </p> + <p> + Even in July 1862 he wrote to Dr. Asa Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "There is no end to the adaptations. Ought not these cases to make one + very cautious when one doubts about the use of all parts? I fully believe + that the structure of all irregular flowers is governed in relation to + insects. Insects are the Lords of the floral (to quote the witty + "Athenaeum") world." + </p> + <p> + He was probably attracted to the study of Orchids by the fact that several + kinds are common near Down. The letters of 1860 show that these plants + occupied a good deal of his attention; and in 1861 he gave part of the + summer and all the autumn to the subject. He evidently considered himself + idle for wasting time on Orchids, which ought to have been given to + 'Variation under Domestication.' Thus he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "There is to me incomparably more interest in observing than in writing; + but I feel quite guilty in trespassing on these subjects, and not sticking + to varieties of the confounded cocks, hens and ducks. I hear that Lyell is + savage at me. I shall never resist Linum next summer." + </p> + <p> + It was in the summer of 1860 that he made out one of the most striking and + familiar facts in the book, namely, the manner in which the pollen masses + in Orchis are adapted for removal by insects. He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker + July 12:— + </p> + <p> + "I have been examining Orchis pyramidalis, and it almost equals, perhaps + even beats, your Listera case; the sticky glands are congenitally united + into a saddle-shaped organ, which has great power of movement, and seizes + hold of a bristle (or proboscis) in an admirable manner, and then another + movement takes place in the pollen masses, by which they are beautifully + adapted to leave pollen on the two LATERAL stigmatic surfaces. I never saw + anything so beautiful." + </p> + <p> + In June of the same year he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "You speak of adaptation being rarely VISIBLE, though present in plants. I + have just recently been looking at the common Orchis, and I declare I + think its adaptations in every part of the flower quite as beautiful and + plain, or even more beautiful than in the Woodpecker. I have written and + sent a notice for the "Gardeners' Chronicle" (June 9, 1860. This seems to + have attracted some attention, especially among entomologists, as it was + reprinted in the "Entomologists Weekly Intelligencer", 1860.), on a + curious difficulty in the Bee Orchis, and should much like to hear what + you think of the case. In this article I have incidentally touched on + adaptation to visits of insects; but the contrivance to keep the sticky + glands fresh and sticky beats almost everything in nature. I never + remember having seen it described, but it must have been, and, as I ought + not in my book to give the observation as my own, I should be very glad to + know where this beautiful contrivance is described." + </p> + <p> + He wrote also to Dr. Gray, June 8, 1860:— + </p> + <p> + "Talking of adaptation, I have lately been looking at our common orchids, + and I dare say the facts are as old and well-known as the hills, but I + have been so struck with admiration at the contrivances, that I have sent + a notice to the "Gardeners' Chronicle". The Ophrys apifera, offers, as you + will see, a curious contradiction in structure." + </p> + <p> + Besides attending to the fertilisation of the flowers he was already, in + 1860, busy with the homologies of the parts, a subject of which he made + good use in the Orchid book. He wrote to Sir Joseph Hooker (July):— + </p> + <p> + "It is a real good joke my discussing homologies of Orchids with you, + after examining only three or four genera; and this very fact makes me + feel positive I am right! I do not quite understand some of your terms; + but sometime I must get you to explain the homologies; for I am intensely + interested on the subject, just as at a game of chess." + </p> + <p> + This work was valuable from a systematic point of view. In 1880 he wrote + to Mr. Bentham:— + </p> + <p> + "It was very kind in you to write to me about the Orchideae, for it has + pleased me to an extreme degree that I could have been of the LEAST use to + you about the nature of the parts." + </p> + <p> + The pleasure which his early observations on Orchids gave him is shown in + such extracts as the following from a letter to Sir J.D. Hooker (July 27, + 1861):— + </p> + <p> + "You cannot conceive how the Orchids have delighted me. They came safe, + but box rather smashed; cylindrical old cocoa- or snuff-canister much + safer. I enclose postage. As an account of the movement, I shall allude to + what I suppose is Oncidium, to make CERTAIN,—is the enclosed flower + with crumpled petals this genus? Also I most specially want to know what + the enclosed little globular brown Orchid is. I have only seen pollen of a + Cattleya on a bee, but surely have you not unintentionally sent me what I + wanted most (after Catasetum or Mormodes), viz. one of the Epidendreae?! I + PARTICULARLY want (and will presently tell you why) another spike of this + little Orchid, with older flowers, some even almost withered." + </p> + <p> + His delight in observation is again shown in a letter to Dr. Gray (1863). + referring to Cruger's letters from Trinidad, he wrote:—"Happy man, + he has actually seen crowds of bees flying round Catasetum, with the + pollinia sticking to their backs!" + </p> + <p> + The following extracts of letters to Sir J.D. Hooker illustrate further + the interest which his work excited in him:— + </p> + <p> + "Veitch sent me a grand lot this morning. What wonderful structures! + </p> + <p> + "I have now seen enough, and you must not send me more, for though I enjoy + looking at them MUCH, and it has been very useful to me, seeing so many + different forms, it is idleness. For my object each species requires + studying for days. I wish you had time to take up the group. I would give + a good deal to know what the rostellum is, of which I have traced so many + curious modifications. I suppose it cannot be one of the stigmas (It is a + modification of the upper stigma.), there seems a great tendency for two + lateral stigmas to appear. My paper, though touching on only subordinate + points will run, I fear, to 100 MS. folio pages! The beauty of the + adaptation of parts seems to me unparalleled. I should think or guess waxy + pollen was most differentiated. In Cypripedium which seems least modified, + and a much exterminated group, the grains are single. In ALL OTHERS, as + far as I have seen, they are in packets of four; and these packets cohere + into many wedge-formed masses in Orchis; into eight, four, and finally + two. It seems curious that a flower should exist, which could AT MOST + fertilise only two other flowers, seeing how abundant pollen generally is; + this fact I look at as explaining the perfection of the contrivance by + which the pollen, so important from its fewness, is carried from flower to + flower" (1861). + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking of writing to you to-day, when your note with the Orchids + came. What frightful trouble you have taken about Vanilla; you really must + not take an atom more; for the Orchids are more play than real work. I + have been much interested by Epidendrum, and have worked all morning at + them; for heaven's sake, do not corrupt me by any more" (August 30, 1861). + </p> + <p> + He originally intended to publish his notes on Orchids as a paper in the + Linnean Society's Journal, but it soon became evident that a separate + volume would be a more suitable form of publication. In a letter to Sir + J.D. Hooker, September 24, 1861, he writes:— + </p> + <p> + "I have been acting, I fear that you will think, like a goose; and perhaps + in truth I have. When I finished a few days ago my Orchis paper, which + turns out 140 folio pages!! and thought of the expense of woodcuts, I said + to myself, I will offer the Linnean Society to withdraw it, and publish it + in a pamphlet. It then flashed on me that perhaps Murray would publish it, + so I gave him a cautious description, and offered to share risks and + profits. This morning he writes that he will publish and take all risks, + and share profits and pay for all illustrations. It is a risk, and heaven + knows whether it will not be a dead failure, but I have not deceived + Murray, and [have] told him that it would interest those alone who cared + much for natural history. I hope I do not exaggerate the curiosity of the + many special contrivances." + </p> + <p> + He wrote the two following letters to Mr. Murray about the publication of + the book:] + </p> + <p> + Down, September 21 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Will you have the kindness to give me your opinion, which I shall + implicitly follow. I have just finished a very long paper intended for + Linnean Society (the title is enclosed), and yesterday for the first time + it occurred to me that POSSIBLY it might be worth publishing separately + which would save me trouble and delay. The facts are new, and have been + collected during twenty years and strike me as curious. Like a Bridgewater + treatise, the chief object is to show the perfection of the many + contrivances in Orchids. The subject of propagation is interesting to most + people, and is treated in my paper so that any woman could read it. Parts + are dry and purely scientific; but I think my paper would interest a good + many of such persons who care for Natural History, but no others. + </p> + <p> + ... It would be a very little book, and I believe you think very little + books objectionable. I have myself GREAT doubts on the subject. I am very + apt to think that my geese are swans; but the subject seems to me curious + and interesting. + </p> + <p> + I beg you not to be guided in the least in order to oblige me, but as far + as you can judge, please give me your opinion. If I were to publish + separately, I would agree to any terms, such as half risk and half profit, + or what you liked; but I would not publish on my sole risk, for to be + frank, I have been told that no publisher whatever, under such + circumstances, cares for the success of a book. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. MURRAY. Down, September 24 [1861]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am very much obliged for your note and very liberal offer. I have had + some qualms and fears. All that I can feel sure of is that the MS. + contains many new and curious facts, and I am sure the Essay would have + interested me, and will interest those who feel lively interest in the + wonders of nature; but how far the public will care for such minute + details, I cannot at all tell. It is a bold experiment; and at worst, + cannot entail much loss; as a certain amount of sale will, I think, be + pretty certain. A large sale is out of the question. As far as I can + judge, generally the points which interest me I find interest others; but + I make the experiment with fear and trembling,—not for my own sake, + but for yours... + </p> + <p> + [On September 28th he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "What a good soul you are not to sneer at me, but to pat me on the back. I + have the greatest doubt whether I am not going to do, in publishing my + paper, a most ridiculous thing. It would annoy me much, but only for + Murray's sake, if the publication were a dead failure." + </p> + <p> + There was still much work to be done, and in October he was still + receiving Orchids from Kew, and wrote to Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "It is impossible to thank you enough. I was almost mad at the wealth of + Orchids." And again— + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Veitch most generously has sent me two splendid buds of Mormodes, + which will be capital for dissection, but I fear will never be irritable; + so for the sake of charity and love of heaven do, I beseech you, observe + what movement takes place in Cychnoches, and what part must be touched. + Mr. V. has also sent me one splendid flower of Catasetum, the most + wonderful Orchid I have seen." + </p> + <p> + On October 13th he wrote to Sir Joseph Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "It seems that I cannot exhaust your good nature. I have had the hardest + day's work at Catasetum and buds of Mormodes, and believe I understand at + last the mechanism of movements and the functions. Catasetum is a + beautiful case of slight modification of structure leading to new + functions. I never was more interested in any subject in my life than in + this of Orchids. I owe very much to you." + </p> + <p> + Again to the same friend, November 1, 1861:— + </p> + <p> + "If you really can spare another Catasetum, when nearly ready, I shall be + most grateful; had I not better send for it? The case is truly marvellous; + the (so-called) sensation, or stimulus from a light touch is certainly + transmitted through the antennae for more than one inch INSTANTANEOUSLY... + A cursed insect or something let my last flower off last night." + </p> + <p> + Professor de Candolle has remarked ('Darwin considere, etc.,' 'Archives + des Sciences Physiques et Naturelles,' 3eme periode. Tome vii. 481, 1882 + (May).) of my father, "Ce n'est pas lui qui aurait demande de construire + des palais pour y loger des laboratoires." This was singularly true of his + orchid work, or rather it would be nearer the truth to say that he had no + laboratory, for it was only after the publication of the 'Fertilisation of + Orchids,' that he built himself a greenhouse. He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker + (December 24th, 1862):— + </p> + <p> + "And now I am going to tell you a MOST important piece of news!! I have + almost resolved to build a small hot-house; my neighbour's really + firs-rate gardener has suggested it, and offered to make me plans, and see + that it is well done, and he is really a clever fellow, who wins lots of + prizes, and is very observant. He believes that we should succeed with a + little patience; it will be a grand amusement for me to experiment with + plants." + </p> + <p> + Again he wrote (February 15th, 1863):— + </p> + <p> + "I write now because the new hot-house is ready, and I long to stock it, + just like a schoolboy. Could you tell me pretty soon what plants you can + give me; and then I shall know what to order? And do advise me how I had + better get such plants as you can SPARE. Would it do to send my tax-cart + early in the morning, on a day that was not frosty, lining the cart with + mats, and arriving here before night? I have no idea whether this degree + of exposure (and of course the cart would be cold) could injure + stov-plants; they would be about five hours (with bait) on the journey + home." + </p> + <p> + A week later he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "you cannot imagine what pleasure your plants give me (far more than your + dead Wedgwood ware can give you); and I go and gloat over them, but we + privately confessed to each other, that if they were not our own, perhaps + we should not see such transcendent beauty in each leaf." + </p> + <p> + And in March, when he was extremely unwell he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "A few words about the Stove-plants; they do so amuse me. I have crawled + to see them two or three times. Will you correct and answer, and return + enclosed. I have hunted in all my books and cannot find these names (His + difficulty with regard to the names of plants is illustrated, with regard + to a Lupine on which he was at work, in an extract from a letter (July 21, + 1866) to Sir J.D. Hooker: "I sent to the nursery garden, whence I bought + the seed, and could only hear that it was 'the common blue Lupine,' the + man saying 'he was no scholard, and did not know Latin, and that parties + who make experiments ought to find out the names.'"), and I like much to + know the family." + </p> + <p> + The book was published May 15th, 1862. Of its reception he writes to + Murray, June 13th and 18th:— + </p> + <p> + "The Botanists praise my Orchid-book to the skies. Some one sent me + (perhaps you) the 'Parthenon,' with a good review. The "Athenaeum" (May + 24, 1862.) treats me with very kind pity and contempt; but the reviewer + knew nothing of his subject." + </p> + <p> + "There is a superb, but I fear exaggerated, review in the 'London Review,' + (June 14, 1862.) But I have not been a fool, as I thought I was, to + publish (Doubts on this point still, however, occurred to him about this + time. He wrote to Prof. Oliver (June 8): "I am glad that you have read my + Orchis-book and seem to approve of it; for I never published anything + which I so much doubted whether it was worth publishing, and indeed I + still doubt. The subject interested me beyond what, I suppose, it is + worth."); for Asa Gray, about the most competent judge in the world, + thinks almost as highly of the book as does the 'London Review.' The + "Athenaeum" will hinder the sale greatly." + </p> + <p> + The Rev. M.J. Berkeley was the author of the notice in the 'London + Review,' as my father learned from Sir J.D. Hooker, who added, 'I thought + it very well done indeed. I have read a good deal of the Orchid-book, and + echo all he says." + </p> + <p> + To this my father replied (June 30th, 1862):— + </p> + <p> + "My dear Old Friend, + </p> + <p> + You speak of my warming the cockles of your heart, but you will never know + how often you have warmed mine. It is not your approbation of my + scientific work (though I care for that more than for any one's): it is + something deeper. To this day I remember keenly a letter you wrote to me + from Oxford, when I was at the Water-cure, and how it cheered me when I + was utterly weary of life. Well, my Orchis-book is a success (but I do not + know whether it sells.)" + </p> + <p> + In another letter to the same friend, he wrote:— + </p> + <p> + "You have pleased me much by what you say in regard to Bentham and Oliver + approving of my book; for I had got a sort of nervousness, and doubted + whether I had not made an egregious fool of myself, and concocted pleasant + little stinging remarks for reviews, such as 'Mr. Darwin's head seems to + have been turned by a certain degree of success, and he thinks that the + most trifling observations are worth publication.'" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bentham's approval was given in his Presidential Address to the + Linnean Society, May 24, 1862, and was all the more valuable because it + came from one who was by no means supposed to be favourable to + evolutionary doctrines.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 10 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Your generous sympathy makes you overestimate what you have read of my + Orchid-book. But your letter of May 18th and 26th has given me an almost + foolish amount of satisfaction. The subject interested me, I knew, beyond + its real value; but I had lately got to think that I had made myself a + complete fool by publishing in a semi-popular form. Now I shall + confidently defy the world. I have heard that Bentham and Oliver approve + of it; but I have heard the opinion of no one else whose opinion is worth + a farthing... No doubt my volume contains much error: how curiously + difficult it is to be accurate, though I try my utmost. Your notes have + interested me beyond measure. I can now afford to d— my critics with + ineffable complacency of mind. Cordial thanks for this benefit. It is + surprising to me that you should have strength of mind to care for + science, amidst the awful events daily occurring in your country. I daily + look at the "Times" with almost as much interest as an American could do. + When will peace come? it is dreadful to think of the desolation of large + parts of your magnificent country; and all the speechless misery suffered + by many. I hope and think it not unlikely that we English are wrong in + concluding that it will take a long time for prosperity to return to you. + It is an awful subject to reflect on... + </p> + <p> + [Dr. Asa Gray reviewed the book in 'Silliman's Journal' ('Silliman's + Journal,' volume xxiv. page 138. Here is given an account of the + fertilisation of Platanthera Hookeri. P. hyperborea is discussed in Dr. + Gray's 'Enumeration' in the same volume, page 259; also, with other + species, in a second notice of the Orchid-book at page 420.), where he + speaks, in strong terms, of the fascination which it must have for even + slightly instructed readers. He made, too, some original observations on + an American orchid, and these first-fruits of the subject, sent in MS. or + proof sheet to my father, were welcomed by him in a letter (July 23rd):— + </p> + <p> + "Last night, after writing the above, I read the great bundle of notes. + Little did I think what I had to read. What admirable observations! You + have distanced me on my own hobby-horse! I have not had for weeks such a + glow of pleasure as your observations gave me." + </p> + <p> + The next letter refers to the publication of the review:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, July 28 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I hardly know what to thank for first. Your stamps gave infinite + satisfaction. I took him (One of his boys who was ill.) first one lot, and + then an hour afterwards another lot. He actually raised himself on one + elbow to look at them. It was the first animation he showed. He said only: + "You must thank Professor Gray awfully." In the evening after a long + silence, there came out the oracular sentence: "He is awfully kind." And + indeed you are, overworked as you are, to take so much trouble for our + poor dear little man.—And now I must begin the "awfullys" on my own + account: what a capital notice you have published on the orchids! It could + not have been better; but I fear that you overrate it. I am very sure that + I had not the least idea that you or any one would approve of it so much. + I return your last note for the chance of your publishing any notice on + the subject; but after all perhaps you may not think it worth while; yet + in my judgment SEVERAL of your facts, especially Platanthera hyperborea, + are MUCH too good to be merged in a review. But I have always noticed that + you are prodigal in originality in your reviews... + </p> + <p> + [Sir Joseph Hooker reviewed the book in the "Gardeners' Chronicle", + writing in a successful imitation of the style of Lindley, the Editor. My + father wrote to Sir Joseph (November 12, 1862):— + </p> + <p> + "So you did write the review in the "Gardeners' Chronicle". Once or twice + I doubted whether it was Lindley; but when I came to a little slap at R. + Brown, I doubted no longer. You arch-rogue! I do not wonder you have + deceived others also. Perhaps I am a conceited dog; but if so, you have + much to answer for; I never received so much praise, and coming from you I + value it much more than from any other." + </p> + <p> + With regard to botanical opinion generally, he wrote to Dr. Gray, "I am + fairly astonished at the success of my book with botanists." Among + naturalists who were not botanists, Lyell was pre-eminent in his + appreciation of the book. I have no means of knowing when he read it, but + in later life, as I learn from Professor Judd, he was enthusiastic in + praise of the 'Fertilisation of Orchids,' which he considered "next to the + 'Origin,' as the most valuable of all Darwin's works." Among the general + public the author did not at first hear of many disciples, thus he wrote + to his cousin Fox in September 1862: "Hardly any one not a botanist, + except yourself, as far as I know, has cared for it." + </p> + <p> + A favourable notice appeared in the "Saturday Review", October 18th, 1862; + the reviewer points out that the book would escape the angry polemics + aroused by the 'Origin.' (Dr. Gray pointed out that if the Orchid-book + (with a few trifling omissions) had appeared before the 'Origin,' the + author would have been canonised rather than anathematised by the natural + theologians.) This is illustrated by a review in the "Literary Churchman", + in which only one fault found, namely, that Mr. Darwin's expression of + admiration at the contrivances in orchids is too indirect a way of saying, + "O Lord, how manifold are Thy works!" + </p> + <p> + A somewhat similar criticism occurs in the 'Edinburgh Review' (October + 1862). The writer points out that Mr. Darwin constantly uses phrases, such + as "beautiful contrivance," "the labellum is... IN ORDER TO attract," "the + nectar is PURPOSELY lodged." The Reviewer concludes his discussion thus: + "We know, too that these purposes and ideas are not our own, but the ideas + and purposes of Another." + </p> + <p> + The 'Edinburgh' reviewer's treatment of this subject was criticised in the + "Saturday Review", November 15th, 1862: With reference to this article my + father wrote to Sir Joseph Hooker (December 29th, 1862):— + </p> + <p> + "Here is an odd chance; my nephew Henry Parker, an Oxford Classic, and + Fellow of Oriel, came here this evening; and I asked him whether he knew + who had written the little article in the "Saturday", smashing the + [Edinburgh reviewer], which we liked; and after a little hesitation he + owned he had. I never knew that he wrote in the "Saturday"; and was it not + an odd chance?" + </p> + <p> + The 'Edinburgh' article was written by the Duke of Argyll, and has since + been made use of in his 'Reign of Law,' 1867. Mr. Wallace replied + ('Quarterly Journal of Science,' October 1867. Republished in 'Natural + Selection,' 1871.) to the Duke's criticisms, making some specially good + remarks on those which refer to orchids. He shows how, by a "beautiful + self-acting adjustment," the nectary of the orchid Angraecum (from 10 to + 14 inches in length), and the proboscis of a moth sufficiently long to + reach the nectar, might be developed by natural selection. He goes on to + point out that on any other theory we must suppose that the flower was + created with an enormously long nectary, and that then by a special act, + an insect was created fitted to visit the flower, which would otherwise + remain sterile. With regard to this point my father wrote (October 12 or + 13, 1867):— + </p> + <p> + "I forgot to remark how capitally you turn the tables on the Duke, when + you make him create the Angraecum and Moth by special creation." + </p> + <p> + If we examine the literature relating to the fertilisation of flowers, we + do not find that this new branch of study showed any great activity + immediately after the publication of the Orchid-book. There are a few + papers by Asa Gray, in 1862 and 1863, by Hildebrand in 1864, and by + Moggridge in 1865, but the great mass of work by Axell, Delpino, + Hildebrand, and the Mullers, did not begin to appear until about 1867. The + period during which the new views were being assimilated, and before they + became thoroughly fruitful, was, however, surprisingly short. The later + activity in this department may be roughly gauged by the fact that the + valuable 'Bibliography,' given by Prof. D'Arcy Thompson in his translation + of Muller's 'Befruchtung' (1883), contains references to 814 papers. + </p> + <p> + Besides the book on Orchids, my father wrote two or three papers on the + subject, which will be found mentioned in the Appendix. The earliest of + these, on the three sexual forms of Catasetum, was published in 1862; it + is an anticipation of part of the Orchid-book, and was merely published in + the Linnean Society's Journal, in acknowledgment of the use made of a + specimen in the Society's possession. The possibility of apparently + distinct species being merely sexual forms of a single species, suggested + a characteristic experiment, which is alluded to in the following letter + to one of his earliest disciples in the study of the fertilisation of + flowers:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. TRAHERNE MOGGRIDGE. (The late Mr. + Moggridge, author of 'Harvesting Ants and Trap-door Spiders,' 'Flora of + Mentone,' etc.) Down, October 13 [1865]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am especially obliged to you for your beautiful plates and letter-press; + for no single point in natural history interests and perplexes me so much + as the self-fertilisation (He once remarked to Dr. Norman Moore that one + of the things that made him wish to live a few thousand years, was his + desire to see the extinction of the Bee-orchis,—an end to which he + believed its self-fertilising habit was leading.) of the Bee-orchis. You + have already thrown some light on the subject, and your present + observations promise to throw more. + </p> + <p> + I formed two conjectures: first, that some insect during certain seasons + might cross the plants, but I have almost given up this; nevertheless, + pray have a look at the flowers next season. Secondly, I conjectured that + the Spider and Bee-orchis might be a crossing and self-fertile form of the + same species. Accordingly I wrote some years ago to an acquaintance, + asking him to mark some Spider-orchids, and observe whether they retained + the same character; but he evidently thought the request as foolish as if + I had asked him to mark one of his cows with a ribbon, to see if it would + turn next spring into a horse. Now will you be so kind as to tie a string + round the stem of a half-a-dozen Spider-orchids, and when you leave + Mentone dig them up, and I would try and cultivate them and see if they + kept constant; but I should require to know in what sort of soil and + situations they grow. It would be indispensable to mark the plant so that + there could be no mistake about the individual. It is also just possible + that the same plant would throw up, at different seasons different + flower-scapes, and the marked plants would serve as evidence. + </p> + <p> + With many thanks, my dear sir, Yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I send by this post my paper on climbing plants, parts of which + you might like to read. + </p> + <p> + [Sir Thomas Farrer and Dr. W. Ogle were also guided and encouraged by my + father in their observations. The following refers to a paper by Sir + Thomas Farrer, in the 'Annals and Magazine of Natural History,' 1868, on + the fertilisation of the Scarlet Runner:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. FARRER. Down, September 15, 1868. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Farrer, + </p> + <p> + I grieve to say that the MAIN features of your case are known. I am the + sinner and described them some ten years ago. But I overlooked many + details, as the appendage to the single stamen, and several other points. + I send my notes, but I must beg for their return, as I have NO OTHER COPY. + I quite agree, the facts are most striking, especially as you put them. + Are you sure that the Hive-bee is the cutter? it is against my experience. + If sure, make the point more prominent, or if not sure, erase it. I do not + think the subject is quite new enough for the Linnean Society; but I dare + say the 'Annals and Magazine of Natural History,' or "Gardeners' + Chronicle" would gladly publish your observations, and it is a great pity + they should be lost. If you like I would send your paper to either quarter + with a note. In this case you must give a title, and your name, and + perhaps it would be well to premise your remarks with a line of reference + to my paper stating that you had observed independently and more fully. + </p> + <p> + I have read my own paper over after an interval of several years, and am + amused at the caution with which I put the case that the final end was for + crossing distinct individuals, of which I was then as fully convinced as + now, but I knew that the doctrine would shock all botanists. Now the + opinion is becoming familiar. + </p> + <p> + To see penetration of pollen-tubes is not difficult, but in most cases + requires some practice with dissecting under a one-tenth of an inch focal + distance single lens; and just at first this will seem to you extremely + difficult. + </p> + <p> + What a capital observer you are—a first-rate Naturalist has been + sacrificed, or partly sacrificed to Public life. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—If you come across any large Salvia, look at it—the + contrivance is admirable. It went to my heart to tell a man who came here + a few weeks ago with splendid drawings and MS. on Salvia, that the work + had been all done in Germany. (Dr. W. Ogle, the observer of the + fertilisation of Salvia here alluded to, published his results in the + 'Pop. Science Review,' 1869. He refers both gracefully and gratefully to + his relationship with my father in the introduction to his translation of + Kerner's 'Flowers and their Unbidden Guests.') + </p> + <p> + [The following extract is from a letter, November 26th, 1868, to Sir + Thomas Farrer, written as I learn from him, "in answer to a request for + some advice as to the best modes of observation." + </p> + <p> + "In my opinion the best plan is to go on working and making copious notes, + without much thought of publication, and then if the results turn out + striking publish them. It is my impression, but I do not feel sure that I + am right, that the best and most novel plan would be, instead of + describing the means of fertilisation in particular plants, to investigate + the part which certain structures play with all plants or throughout + certain orders; for instance, the brush of hairs on the style, or the + diadelphous condition of the stamens, in the Leguminosae, or the hairs + within the corolla, etc. etc. Looking to your note, I think that this is + perhaps the plan which you suggest. + </p> + <p> + "It is well to remember that Naturalists value observations far more than + reasoning; therefore your conclusions should be as often as possible + fortified by noticing how insects actually do the work." + </p> + <p> + In 1869, Sir Thomas Farrer corresponded with my father on the + fertilisation of Passiflora and of Tacsonia. He has given me his + impressions of the correspondence:— + </p> + <p> + "I had suggested that the elaborate series of chevaux-de-frise, by which + the nectary of the common Passiflora is guarded, were specially calculated + to protect the flower from the stiff-beaked humming birds which would not + fertilise it, and to facilitate the access of the little proboscis of the + humble bee, which would do so; whilst, on the other hand, the long pendent + tube and flexible valve-like corona which retains the nectar of Tacsonia + would shut out the bee, which would not, and admit the humming bird which + would, fertilise that flower. The suggestion is very possibly worthless, + and could only be verified or refuted by examination of flowers in the + countries where they grow naturally... What interested me was to see that + on this as on almost any other point of detailed observation, Mr. Darwin + could always say, 'Yes; but at one time I made some observations myself on + this particular point; and I think you will find, etc. etc.' That he + should after years of interval remember that he had noticed the peculiar + structure to which I was referring in the Passiflora princeps struck me at + the time as very remarkable." + </p> + <p> + With regard to the spread of a belief in the adaptation of flowers for + cross-fertilisation, my father wrote to Mr. Bentham April 22, 1868: + </p> + <p> + "Most of the criticisms which I sometimes meet with in French works + against the frequency of crossing, I am certain are the result of mere + ignorance. I have never hitherto found the rule to fail that when an + author describes the structure of a flower as specially adapted for + self-fertilisation, it is really adapted for crossing. The Fumariaceae + offer a good instance of this, and Treviranus threw this order in my + teeth; but in Corydalis, Hildebrand shows how utterly false the idea of + self-fertilisation is. This author's paper on Salvia is really worth + reading, and I have observed some species, and know that he is accurate." + </p> + <p> + The next letter refers to Professor Hildebrand's paper on Corydalis, + published in the 'Proc. Internat. Hort. Congress,' London, 1866, and in + Pringsheim's 'Jahrbucher,' volume v. The memoir on Salvia alluded to is + contained in the previous volume of the same Journal:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. HILDEBRAND. (Professor of Botany at + Freiburg.) Down, May 16 [1866]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The state of my health prevents my attending the Hort. Congress; but I + forwarded yesterday your paper to the secretary, and if they are not + overwhelmed with papers, yours will be gladly received. I have made many + observations on the Fumariaceae, and convinced myself that they were + adapted for insect agency; but I never observed anything nearly so curious + as your most interesting facts. I hope you will repeat your experiments on + the Corydalis on a larger scale, and especially on several distinct + plants; for your plant might have been individually peculiar, like certain + individual plants of Lobelia, etc., described by Gartner, and of + Passiflora and Orchids described by Mr. Scott... + </p> + <p> + Since writing to you before, I have read your admirable memoir on Salvia, + and it has interested me almost as much as when I first investigated the + structure of Orchids. Your paper illustrates several points in my 'Origin + of Species,' especially the transition of organs. Knowing only two or + three species in the genus, I had often marvelled how one cell of the + anther could have been transformed into the movable plate or spoon; and + how well you show the gradations; but I am surprised that you did not more + strongly insist on this point. + </p> + <p> + I shall be still more surprised if you do not ultimately come to the same + belief with me, as shown by so many beautiful contrivances, that all + plants require, from some unknown cause, to be occasionally fertilized by + pollen from a distinct individual. With sincere respect, believe me, my + dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Yours very faithfully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to the late Hermann Muller's 'Befruchtung der + Blumen,' by far the most valuable of the mass of literature originating in + the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' An English translation, by Prof. D'Arcy + Thompson was published in 1883. My father's "Prefatory Notice" to this + work is dated February 6, 1882, and is therefore almost the last of his + writings:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H. MULLER. Down, May 5, 1873. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Owing to all sorts of interruptions and to my reading German so slowly, I + have read only to page 88 of your book; but I must have the pleasure of + telling you how very valuable a work it appears to me. Independently of + the many original observations, which of course form the most important + part, the work will be of the highest use as a means of reference to all + that has been done on the subject. I am fairly astonished at the number of + species of insects, the visits of which to different flowers you have + recorded. You must have worked in the most indefatigable manner. About + half a year ago the editor of 'Nature' suggested that it would be a grand + undertaking if a number of naturalists were to do what you have already + done on so large a scale with respect to the visits of insects. I have + been particularly glad to read your historical sketch, for I had never + before seen all the references put together. I have sometimes feared that + I was in error when I said that C.K. Sprengel did not fully perceive that + cross-fertilisation was the final end of the structure of flowers; but now + this fear is relieved, and it is a great satisfaction to me to believe + that I have aided in making his excellent book more generally known. + Nothing has surprised me more than to see in your historical sketch how + much I myself have done on the subject, as it never before occurred to me + to think of all my papers as a whole. But I do not doubt that your + generous appreciation of the labours of others has led you to + over-estimate what I have done. With very sincere thanks and respect, + believe me, + </p> + <p> + Yours faithfully, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—I have mentioned your book to almost every one who, as far as I + know, cares for the subject in England; and I have ordered a copy to be + send to our Royal Society. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter, to Dr. Behrens, refers to the same subject as the last:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. BEHRENS. Down, August 29 [1878]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am very much obliged to you for having sent me your 'Geschichte der + Bestaubungs-Theorie' (Progr. der K. Gewerbschule zu Elberfeld, 1877, + 1878.), and which has interested me much. It has put some things in a new + light, and has told me other things which I did not know. I heartily agree + with you in your high appreciation of poor old C. Sprengel's work; and one + regrets bitterly that he did not live to see his labours thus valued. It + rejoices me also to notice how highly you appreciate H. Muller, who has + always seemed to me an admirable observer and reasoner. I am at present + endeavouring to persuade an English publisher to bring out a translation + of his 'Befruchtung.' + </p> + <p> + Lastly, permit me to thank you for your very generous remarks on my works. + By placing what I have been able to do on this subject in systematic + order, you have made me think more highly of my own work than I ever did + before! Nevertheless, I fear that you have done me more than justice. + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Sir, yours faithfully and obliged, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The letter which follows was called forth by Dr. Gray's article in + 'Nature,' to which reference has already been made, and which appeared + June 4, 1874:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 3 [1874]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I was rejoiced to see your hand-writing again in your note of the 4th, of + which more anon. I was astonished to see announced about a week ago that + you were going to write in 'Nature' an article on me, and this morning I + received an advance copy. It is the grandest thing ever written about me, + especially as coming from a man like yourself. It has deeply pleased me, + particularly some of your side remarks. It is a wonderful thing to me to + live to see my name coupled in any fashion with that of Robert Brown. But + you are a bold man, for I am sure that you will be sneered at by not a few + botanists. I have never been so honoured before, and I hope it will do me + good and make me try to be as careful as possible; and good heavens, how + difficult accuracy is! I feel a very proud man, but I hope this won't + last... + </p> + <p> + [Fritz Muller has observed that the flowers of Hedychium are so arranged + that the pollen is removed by the wings of hovering butterflies. My + father's prediction of this observation is given in the following letter:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO H. MULLER. Down, August 7, 1876. + </p> + <p> + ... I was much interested by your brother's article on Hedychium; about + two years ago I was so convinced that the flowers were fertilized by the + tips of the wings of large moths, that I wrote to India to ask a man to + observe the flowers and catch the moths at work, and he sent me 20 to 30 + Sphin-moths, but so badly packed that they all arrived in fragments; and I + could make out nothing... + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following extract from a letter (February 25, 1864), to Dr. Gray + refers to another prediction fulfilled:— + </p> + <p> + "I have of course seen no one, and except good dear Hooker, I hear from no + one. He, like a good and true friend, though so overworked, often writes + to me. + </p> + <p> + "I have had one letter which has interested me greatly, with a paper, + which will appear in the Linnean Journal, by Dr. Cruger of Trinidad, which + shows that I am all right about Catasetum, even to the spot where the + pollinia adhere to the bees, which visit the flower, as I said, to gnaw + the labellum. Cruger's account of Coryanthes and the use of the + bucket-like labellum full of water beats everything: I SUSPECT that the + bees being well wetted flattens their hairs, and allows the viscid disc to + adhere."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO THE MARQUIS DE SAPORTA. Down, December 24, + 1877. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for your long and most interesting letter, which I + should have answered sooner had it not been delayed in London. I had not + heard before that I was to be proposed as a Corresponding Member of the + Institute. Living so retired a life as I do, such honours affect me very + little, and I can say with entire truth that your kind expression of + sympathy has given and will give me much more pleasure than the election + itself, should I be elected. + </p> + <p> + Your idea that dicotyledonous plants were not developed in force until + sucking insects had been evolved seems to me a splendid one. I am + surprised that the idea never occurred to me, but this is always the case + when one first hears a new and simple explanation of some mysterious + phenomenon... I formerly showed that we might fairly assume that the + beauty of flowers, their sweet odour and copious nectar, may be attributed + to the existence of flower-haunting insects, but your idea, which I hope + you will publish, goes much further and is much more important. With + respect to the great development of mammifers in the later Geological + periods following from the development of dicotyledons, I think it ought + to be proved that such animals as deer, cows, horses, etc. could not + flourish if fed exclusively on the gramineae and other anemophilous + monocotyledons; and I do not suppose that any evidence on this head + exists. + </p> + <p> + Your suggestion of studying the manner of fertilisation of the surviving + members of the most ancient forms of the dicotyledons is a very good one, + and I hope that you will keep it in mind yourself, for I have turned my + attention to other subjects. Delpino I think says that Magnolia is + fertilised by insects which gnaw the petals, and I should not be surprised + if the same fact holds good with Nymphaea. Whenever I have looked at the + flowers of these latter plants I have felt inclined to admit the view that + petals are modified stamens, and not modified leaves; though Poinsettia + seems to show that true leaves might be converted into coloured petals. I + grieve to say that I have never been properly grounded in Botany and have + studied only special points—therefore I cannot pretend to express + any opinion on your remarks on the origin of the flowers of the Coniferae, + Gnetaceae, etc.; but I have been delighted with what you say on the + conversion of a monoecious species into a hermaphrodite one by the + condensations of the verticils on a branch bearing female flowers near the + summit, and male flowers below. + </p> + <p> + I expect Hooker to come here before long, and I will then show him your + drawing, and if he makes any important remarks I will communicate with + you. He is very busy at present in clearing off arrears after his American + Expedition, so that I do not like to trouble him, even with the briefest + note. I am at present working with my son at some Physiological subjects, + and we are arriving at very curious results, but they are not as yet + sufficiently certain to be worth communicating to you... + </p> + <p> + [In 1877 a second edition of the 'Fertilisation of Orchids' was published, + the first edition having been for some time out of print. The new edition + was remodelled and almost re-written, and a large amount of new matter + added, much of which the author owed to his friend Fritz Muller. + </p> + <p> + With regard to this edition he wrote to Dr. Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "I do not suppose I shall ever again touch the book. After much doubt I + have resolved to act in this way with all my books for the future; that is + to correct them once and never touch them again, so as to use the small + quantity of work left in me for new matter." + </p> + <p> + He may have felt a diminution of his powers of reviewing large bodies of + facts, such as would be needed in the preparation of new editions, but his + powers of observation were certainly not diminished. He wrote to Mr. Dyer + on July 14, 1878:] + </p> + <p> + My dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + Thalia dealbata was sent me from Kew: it has flowered and after looking + casually at the flowers, they have driven me almost mad, and I have worked + at them for a week: it is as grand a case as that of Catasetum. + </p> + <p> + Pistil vigorously motile (so that whole flower shakes when pistil suddenly + coils up); when excited by a touch the two filaments [are] produced + laterally and transversely across the flower (just over the nectar) from + one of the petals or modified stamens. It is splendid to watch the + phenomenon under a weak power when a bristle is inserted into a YOUNG + flower which no insect has visited. As far as I know Stylidium is the sole + case of sensitive pistil and here it is the pistil + stamens. In Thalia + (Hildebrand has described an explosive arrangement in some of the + Maranteae—the tribe to which Thalia belongs.) cross-fertilisation is + ensured by the wonderful movement, if bees visit several flowers. + </p> + <p> + I have now relieved my mind and will tell the purport of this note—viz. + if any other species of Thalia besides T. dealbata should flower with you, + for the love of heaven and all the saints, send me a few in TIN BOX WITH + DAMP MOSS. + </p> + <p> + Your insane friend, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In 1878 Dr. Ogle's translation of Kerner's interesting book, 'Flowers and + their Unbidden Guests,' was published. My father, who felt much interest + in the translation (as appears in the following letter), contributed some + prefatory words of approval:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. OGLE. Down, December 16 [1878]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have now read Kerner's book, which is better even than I + anticipated. The translation seems to me as clear as daylight, and written + in forcible and good familiar English. I am rather afraid that it is too + good for the English public, which seems to like very washy food, unless + it be administered by some one whose name is well-known, and then I + suspect a good deal of the unintelligible is very pleasing to them. I hope + to heaven that I may be wrong. Anyhow, you and Mrs. Ogle have done a right + good service for Botanical Science. Yours very sincerely, + </p> + <p> + CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—You have done me much honour in your prefatory remarks. + </p> + <p> + [One of the latest references to his Orchid-work occurs in a letter to Mr. + Bentham, February 16, 1880. It shows the amount of pleasure which this + subject gave to my father, and (what is characteristic of him) that his + reminiscence of the work was one of delight in the observations which + preceded its publication. Not to the applause which followed it:— + </p> + <p> + "They are wonderful creatures, these Orchids, and I sometimes think with a + glow of pleasure, when I remember making out some little point in their + method of fertilisation."] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XI. — THE 'EFFECTS OF CROSS- AND SELF-FERTILISATION + </h2> + <h3> + IN THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM.' + </h3> + <p> + 1876. + </p> + <p> + [This book, as pointed out in the 'Autobiography,' is a complement to the + 'Fertilisation of Orchids,' because it shows how important are the results + of cross-fertilisation which are ensured by the mechanisms described in + that book. + </p> + <p> + By proving that the offspring of cross-fertilisation are more vigorous + than the offspring of self-fertilisation, he showed that one circumstance + which influences the fate of young plants in the struggle for life is the + degree to which their parents are fitted for cross-fertilisation. He thus + convinced himself that the intensity of the struggle (which he had + elsewhere shown to exist among young plants) is a measure of the strength + of a selective agency perpetually sifting out every modification in the + structure of flowers which can effect its capabilities for + cros-fertilisation. + </p> + <p> + The book is also valuable in another respect, because it throws light on + the difficult problems of the origin of sexuality. The increased vigour + resulting from cross-fertilisation is allied in the closest manner to the + advantage gained by change of conditions. So strongly is this the case, + that in some instances cross-fertilisation gives no advantage to the + offspring, unless the parents have lived under slightly different + conditions. So that the really important thing is not that two individuals + of different BLOOD shall unite, but two individuals which have been + subjected to different conditions. We are thus led to believe that + sexuality is a means for infusing vigour into the offspring by the + coalescence of differentiated elements, an advantage which could not + follow if reproductions were entirely asexual. + </p> + <p> + It is remarkable that this book, the result of eleven years of + experimental work, owed its origin to a chance observation. My father had + raised two beds of Linaria vulgaris—one set being the offspring of + cross- and the other of self-fertilisation. These plants were grown for + the sake of some observations on inheritance, and not with any view to + cross-breeding, and he was astonished to observe that the offspring of + self-fertilisation were clearly less vigorous than the others. It seemed + incredible to him that this result could be due to a single act of + self-fertilisation, and it was only in the following year when precisely + the same result occurred in the case of a similar experiment on + inheritance in Carnations, that his attention was "thoroughly aroused" and + that he determined to make a series of experiments specially directed to + the question. The following letters give some account of the work in + question.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. September 10, [1866?]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have just begun a large course of experiments on the germination of + the seed, and on the growth of the young plants when raised from a pistil + fertilised by pollen from the same flower, and from pollen from a distinct + plant of the same, or of some other variety. I have not made sufficient + experiments to judge certainly, but in some cases the difference in the + growth of the young plants is highly remarkable. I have taken every kind + of precaution in getting seed from the same plant, in germinating the seed + on my own chimney-piece, in planting the seedlings in the same flower-pot, + and under this similar treatment I have seen the young seedlings from the + crossed seed exactly twice as tall as the seedlings from the + sel-fertilised seed; both seeds having germinated on the same day. If I + can establish this fact (but perhaps it will all go to the dogs), in some + fifty cases, with plants of different orders, I think it will be very + important, for then we shall positively know why the structure of every + flower permits, or favours, or necessitates an occasional cross with a + distinct individual. But all this is rather cooking my hare before I have + caught it. But somehow it is a great pleasure to me to tell you what I am + about. Believe me, my dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + Ever yours most truly, and with cordial thanks, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO G. BENTHAM. April 22, 1868. + </p> + <p> + ... I am experimenting on a very large scale on the difference in power of + growth between plants raised from self-fertilised and crossed seeds; and + it is no exaggeration to say that the difference in growth and vigour is + sometimes truly wonderful. Lyell, Huxley and Hooker have seen some of my + plants, and been astonished; and I should much like to show them to you. I + always supposed until lately that no evil effects would be visible until + after several generations of self-fertilisation; but now I see that one + generation sometimes suffices; and the existence of dimorphic plants and + all the wonderful contrivances of orchids are quite intelligible to me. + </p> + <p> + With cordial thanks for your letter, which has pleased me greatly, + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [An extract from a letter to Dr. Gray (March 11, 1873) mentions the + progress of the work:— + </p> + <p> + "I worked last summer hard at Drosera, but could not finish till I got + fresh plants, and consequently took up the effects of crossing and + sel-fertilising plants, and am got so interested that Drosera must go to + the dogs till I finish with this, and get it published; but then I will + resume my beloved Drosera, and I heartily apologise for having sent the + precious little things even for a moment to the dogs." + </p> + <p> + The following letters give the author's impression of his own book.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. MURRAY. Down, September 16, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have just received proofs in sheet of five sheets, so you will have to + decide soon how many copies will have to be struck off. I do not know what + to advise. The greater part of the book is extremely dry, and the whole on + a special subject. Nevertheless, I am convinced that the book is of value, + and I am convinced that for MANY years copies will be occasionally sold. + Judging from the sale of my former books, and from supposing that some + persons will purchase it to complete the set of my works, I would suggest + 1500. But you must be guided by your larger experience. I will only repeat + that I am convinced the book is of some permanent value... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO VICTOR CARUS. Down, September 27, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I sent by this morning's post the four first perfect sheets of my new + book, the title of which you will see on the first page, and which will be + published early in November. + </p> + <p> + I am sorry to say that it is only shorter by a few pages than my + 'Insectivorous Plants.' The whole is now in type, though I have corrected + finally only half the volume. You will, therefore, rapidly receive the + remainder. The book is very dull. Chapters II. to VI., inclusive, are + simply a record of experiments. Nevertheless, I believe (though a man can + never judge his own books) that the book is valuable. You will have to + decide whether it is worth translating. I hope so. It has cost me very + great labour, and the results seem to me remarkable and well established. + </p> + <p> + If you translate it, you could easily get aid for Chapters II. to VI., as + there is here endless, but I have thought necessary repetition. I shall be + anxious to hear what you decide... + </p> + <p> + I most sincerely hope that your health has been fairly good this summer. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, yours very truly, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, October 28, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + I send by this post all the clean sheets as yet printed, and I hope to + send the remainder within a fortnight. Please observe that the first six + chapters are not readable, and the six last very dull. Still I believe + that the results are valuable. If you review the book, I shall be very + curious to see what you think of it, for I care more for your judgment + than for that of almost any one else. I know also that you will speak the + truth, whether you approve or disapprove. Very few will take the trouble + to read the book, and I do not expect you to read the whole, but I hope + you will read the latter chapters. + </p> + <p> + ... I am so sick of correcting the press and licking my horrid bad style + into intelligible English. + </p> + <p> + [The 'Effects of Cross and Self-fertilisation' was published on November + 10, 1876, and 1500 copies were sold before the end of the year. The + following letter refers to a review in 'Nature' (February 15, 1877.):] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. Down, February 16, 1877. + </p> + <p> + Dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + I must tell you how greatly I am pleased and honoured by your article in + 'Nature,' which I have just read. You are an adept in saying what will + please an author, not that I suppose you wrote with this express + intention. I should be very well contented to deserve a fraction of your + praise. I have also been much interested, and this is better than mere + pleasure, by your argument about the separation of the sexes. I dare say + that I am wrong, and will hereafter consider what you say more carefully: + but at present I cannot drive out of my head that the sexes must have + originated from two individuals, slightly different, which conjugated. But + I am aware that some cases of conjugation are opposed to any such views. + </p> + <p> + With hearty thanks, Yours sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XII. — 'DIFFERENT FORMS OF FLOWERS ON PLANTS OF THE SAME + SPECIES.' + </h2> + <h3> + 1877. + </h3> + <p> + [The volume bearing the above title was published in 1877, and was + dedicated by the author to Professor Asa Gray, "as a small tribute of + respect and affection." It consists of certain earlier papers re-edited, + with the addition of a quantity of new matter. The subjects treated in the + book are:— + </p> + <p> + 1. Heterostyled Plants. + </p> + <p> + 2. Polygamous, Dioecious, and Gynodioecious Plants. + </p> + <p> + 3. Cleistogamic Flowers. + </p> + <p> + The nature of heterostyled plants may be illustrated in the primrose, one + of the best known examples of the class. If a number of primroses be + gathered, it will be found that some plants yield nothing but "pin-eyed" + flowers, in which the style (or organ for the transmission of the pollen + to the ovule) is long, while the others yield only "thrum-eyed" flowers + with short styles. Thus primroses are divided into two sets or castes + differing structurally from each other. My father showed that they also + differ sexually, and that in fact the bond between the two castes more + nearly resembles that between separate sexes than any other known + relationship. Thus for example a long-styled primrose, though it can be + fertilised by its own pollen, is not FULLY fertile unless it is + impregnated by the pollen of a short-styled flower. Heterostyled plants + are comparable to hermaphrodite animals, such as snails, which require the + concourse of two individuals, although each possesses both the sexual + elements. The difference is that in the case of the primrose it is PERFECT + FERTILITY, and not simply FERTILITY, that depends on the mutual action of + the two sets of individuals. + </p> + <p> + The work on heterostyled plants has a special bearing, to which the author + attached much importance, on the problem of origin of species. (See + 'Autobiography,' volume i.) + </p> + <p> + He found that a wonderfully close parallelism exists between hybridisation + and certain forms of fertilisation among heterostyled plants. So that it + is hardly an exaggeration to say that the "illegitimately" reared + seedlings are hybrids, although both their parents belong to identically + the same species. In a letter to Professor Huxley, my father writes as if + his researches on heterostyled plants tended to make him believe that + sterility is a selected or acquired quality. But in his later + publications, e.g. in the sixth edition of the 'Origin,' he adheres to the + belief that sterility is an incidental rather than a selected quality. The + result of his work on heterostyled plants is of importance as showing that + sterility is no test of specific distinctness, and that it depends on + differentiation of the sexual elements which is independent of any racial + difference. I imagine that it was his instinctive love of making out a + difficulty which to a great extent kept him at work so patiently on the + heterostyled plants. But it was the fact that general conclusions of the + above character could be drawn from his results which made him think his + results worthy of publication. (See 'Forms of Flowers,' page 243.) + </p> + <p> + The papers which on this subject preceded and contributed to 'Forms of + Flowers' were the following:— + </p> + <p> + "On the two Forms or Dimorphic Condition in the Species of Primula, and on + their remarkable Sexual Relations." Linn. Soc. Journal, 1862.) + </p> + <p> + "On the Existence of Two Forms, and on their Reciprocal Sexual Relations, + in several Species of the Genus Linum." Linn. Soc. Journal, 1863. + </p> + <p> + "On the Sexual Relations of the Three Forms of Lythrum salicaria," Ibid. + 1864. + </p> + <p> + "On the Character and Hybrid-like Nature of the Offspring from the + Illegitimate Unions of Dimorphic and Trimorphic Plants." Ibid. 1869. + </p> + <p> + "On the Specific Differences between Primula veris, Brit. Fl. (var. + Officinalis, Linn.), P. vulgaris, Brit. Fl. (var. acaulis, Linn.) and P. + elatior, Jacq.; and on the Hybrid Nature of the Common Oxlip. With + Supplementary Remarks on Naturally Produced Hybrids in the Genus + Verbascum." Ibid. 1869. + </p> + <p> + The following letter shows that he began the work on heterostyled plants + with an erroneous view as to the meaning of the facts.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, May 7 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have this morning been looking at my experimental cowslips, and I + find some plants have all flowers with long stamens and short pistils, + which I will call "male plants," others with short stamens and long + pistils, which I will call "female plants." This I have somewhere seen + noticed, I think by Henslow; but I find (after looking at my two sets of + plants) that the stigmas of the male and female are of slightly different + shape, and certainly different degree of roughness, and what has + astonished me, the pollen of the so-called female plant, though very + abundant, is more transparent, and each granule is exactly only 2/3 of the + size of the pollen of the so-called male plant. Has this been observed? I + cannot help suspecting [that] the cowslip is in fact dioecious, but it may + turn out all a blunder, but anyhow I will mark with sticks the so-called + male and female plants and watch their seeding. It would be a fine case of + gradation between an hermaphrodite and unisexual condition. Likewise a + sort of case of balancement of long and short pistils and stamens. + Likewise perhaps throws light on oxlips... + </p> + <p> + I have now examined primroses and find exactly the same difference in the + size of the pollen, correlated with the same difference in the length of + the style and roughness of the stigmas. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. June 8 [1860]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have been making some little trifling observations which have + interested and perplexed me much. I find with primroses and cowslips, that + about an equal number of plants are thus characterised. + </p> + <p> + SO-CALLED (by me) MALE plant. Pistil much shorter than stamens; stigma + rather smooth,—POLLEN GRAINS LARGE, throat of corolla short. + </p> + <p> + SO-CALLED FEMALE plant. Pistil much longer than stamens, stigma rougher, + POLLEN-GRAINS SMALLER,—throat of corolla long. + </p> + <p> + I have marked a lot of plants, and expected to find the so-called male + plant barren; but judging from the feel of the capsules, this is not the + case, and I am very much surprised at the difference in the size of the + pollen... If it should prove that the so-called male plants produce less + seed than the so-called females, what a beautiful case of gradation from + hermaphrodite to unisexual condition it will be! If they produce about + equal number of seed, how perplexing it will be. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, December 17 [1860?]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have just been ordering a photograph of myself for a friend; and + have ordered one for you, and for heaven's sake oblige me, and burn that + now hanging up in your room.—It makes me look atrociously wicked. + </p> + <p> + ... In the spring I must get you to look for long pistils and short + pistils in the rarer species of Primula and in some allied Genera. It + holds with P. Sinensis. You remember all the fuss I made on this subject + last spring; well, the other day at last I had time to weigh the seeds, + and by Jove the plants of primroses and cowslip with short pistils and + large grained pollen (Thus the plants which he imagined to be tending + towards a male condition were more productive than the supposed females.) + are rather more fertile than those with long pistils, and small-grained + pollen. I find that they require the action of insects to set them, and I + never will believe that these differences are without some meaning. + </p> + <p> + Some of my experiments lead me to suspect that the large-grained pollen + suits the long pistils and the small-grained pollen suits the short + pistils; but I am determined to see if I cannot make out the mystery next + spring. + </p> + <p> + How does your book on plants brew in your mind? Have you begun it?... + </p> + <p> + Remember me most kindly to Oliver. He must be astonished at not having a + string of questions, I fear he will get out of practice! + </p> + <p> + [The Primula-work was finished in the autumn of 1861, and on November 8th + he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "I have sent my paper on dimorphism in Primula to the Linn. Soc. I shall + go up and read it whenever it comes on; I hope you may be able to attend, + for I do not suppose many will care a penny for the subject." + </p> + <p> + With regard to the reading of the paper (on November 21st), he wrote to + the same friend:— + </p> + <p> + "I by no means thought that I produced a "tremendous effect" in the Linn. + Soc., but by Jove the Linn. Soc. produced a tremendous effect on me, for I + could not get out of bed till late next evening, so that I just crawled + home. I fear I must give up trying to read any paper or speak; it is a + horrid bore, I can do nothing like other people." + </p> + <p> + To Dr. Gray he wrote, (December 1861):— + </p> + <p> + "You may rely on it, I will send you a copy of my Primula paper as soon as + I can get one; but I believe it will not be printed till April 1st, and + therefore after my Orchid Book. I care more for your and Hooker's opinion + than for that of all the rest of the world, and for Lyell's on geological + points. Bentham and Hooker thought well of my paper when read; but no one + can judge of evidence by merely hearing a paper." + </p> + <p> + The work on Primula was the means of bringing my father in contact with + the late Mr. John Scott, then working as a gardener in the Botanic Gardens + at Edinburgh,—an employment which he seems to have chosen in order + to gratify his passion for natural history. He wrote one or two excellent + botanical papers, and ultimately obtained a post in India. (While in India + he made some admirable observations on expression for my father.) He died + in 1880. + </p> + <p> + A few phrases may be quoted from letters to Sir J.D. Hooker, showing my + father's estimate of Scott:— + </p> + <p> + "If you know, do please tell me who is John Scott of the Botanical Gardens + of Edinburgh; I have been corresponding largely with him; he is no common + man." + </p> + <p> + "If he had leisure he would make a wonderful observer; to my judgment I + have come across no one like him." + </p> + <p> + "He has interested me strangely, and I have formed a very high opinion of + his intellect. I hope he will accept pecuniary assistance from me; but he + has hitherto refused." (He ultimately succeeded in being allowed to pay + for Mr. Scott's passage to India.) + </p> + <p> + "I know nothing of him excepting from his letters; these show remarkable + talent, astonishing perseverance, much modesty, and what I admire, + determined difference from me on many points." + </p> + <p> + So highly did he estimate Scott's abilities that he formed a plan (which + however never went beyond an early stage of discussion) of employing him + to work out certain problems connected with intercrossing. + </p> + <p> + The following letter refers to my father's investigations on Lythrum (He + was led to this, his first case of trimorphism by Lecoq's 'Geographie + Botanique,' and this must have consoled him for the trick this work played + him in turning out to be so much larger than he expected. He wrote to Sir + J.D. Hooker: "Here is a good joke: I saw an extract from Lecoq, 'Geograph. + Bot.,' and ordered it and hoped that it was a good sized pamphlet, and + nine thick volumes have arrived!"), a plant which reveals even a more + wonderful condition of sexual complexity than that of Primula. For in + Lythrum there are not merely two, but three castes, differing structurally + and physiologically from each other:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, August 9 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + It is late at night, and I am going to write briefly, and of course to beg + a favour. + </p> + <p> + The Mitchella very good, but pollen apparently equal-sized. I have just + examined Hottonia, grand difference in pollen. Echium vulgare, a humbug, + merely a case like Thymus. But I am almost stark staring mad over Lythrum + (On another occasion he wrote (to Dr. Gray) with regard to Lythrum: "I + must hold hard, otherwise I shall spend my life over dimorphism."); if I + can prove what I fully believe, it is a grand case of TRIMORPHISM, with + three different pollens and three stigmas; I have castrated and fertilised + above ninety flowers, trying all the eighteen distinct crosses which are + possible within the limits of this one species! I cannot explain, but I + feel sure you would think it a grand case. I have been writing to + Botanists to see if I can possibly get L. hyssopifolia, and it has just + flashed on me that you might have Lythrum in North America, and I have + looked to your Manual. For the love of heaven have a look at some of your + species, and if you can get me seed, do; I want much to try species with + few stamens, if they are dimorphic; Nesaea verticillata I should expect to + be trimorphic. Seed! Seed! Seed! I should rather like seed of Mitchella. + But oh, Lythrum! + </p> + <p> + Your utterly mad friend, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—There is reason in my madness, for I can see that to those who + already believe in change of species, these facts will modify to a certain + extent the whole view of Hybridity. (A letter to Dr. Gray (July, 1862) + bears on this point: "A few days ago I made an observation which has + surprised me more than it ought to do—it will have to be repeated + several times, but I have scarcely a doubt of its accuracy. I stated in my + Primula paper that the long-styled form of Linum grandiflorum was utterly + sterile with its own pollen; I have lately been putting the pollen of the + two forms on the stigma of the SAME flower; and it strikes me as truly + wonderful, that the stigma distinguishes the pollen; and is penetrated by + the tubes of the one and not by those of the other; nor are the tubes + exserted. Or (which is the same thing) the stigma of the one form acts on + and is acted on by pollen, which produces not the least effect on the + stigma of the other form. Taking sexual power as the criterion of + difference, the two forms of this one species may be said to be + generically distinct.") + </p> + <p> + [On the same subject he wrote to Sir Joseph Hooker in August 1862:— + </p> + <p> + "Is Oliver at Kew? When I am established at Bournemouth I am completely + mad to examine any fresh flowers of any Lythraceous plant, and I would + write and ask him if any are in bloom." + </p> + <p> + Again he wrote to the same friend in October:— + </p> + <p> + "If you ask Oliver, I think he will tell you I have got a real odd case in + Lythrum, it interests me extremely, and seems to me the strangest case of + propagation recorded amongst plants or animals, viz. a necessary triple + alliance between three hermaphrodites. I feel sure I can now prove the + truth of the case from a multitude of crosses made this summer." + </p> + <p> + In an article, 'Dimorphism in the Genitalia of Plants' ('Silliman's + Journal,' 1862, volume xxxiv. page 419), Dr. Gray pointed out that the + structural difference between the two forms of Primula had already been + defined in the 'Flora of North America,' as DIOECIO-DIMORPHISM. The use of + this term called forth the following remarks from my father. The letter + also alludes to a review of the 'Fertilisation of Orchids' in the same + volume of 'Silliman's Journal.'] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, November 26 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Gray, + </p> + <p> + The very day after my last letter, yours of November 10th, and the review + in 'Silliman,' which I feared might have been lost, reached me. We were + all very much interested by the political part of your letter; and in some + odd way one never feels that information and opinions painted in a + newspaper come from a living source; they seem dead, whereas all that you + write is full of life. The reviews interested me profoundly; you rashly + ask for my opinion, and you must consequently endure a long letter. First + for Dimorphism; I do not AT PRESENT like the term "Dioecio-dimorphism;" + for I think it gives quite a false notion, that the phenomena are + connected with a separation of the sexes. Certainly in Primula there is + unequal fertility in the two forms, and I suspect this is the case with + Linum; and, therefore I felt bound in the Primula paper to state that it + might be a step towards a dioecious condition; though I believe there are + no dioecious forms in Primulaceae or Linaceae. But the three forms in + Lythrum convince me that the phenomenon is in no way necessarily connected + with any tendency to separation of sexes. The case seems to me in result + or function to be almost identical with what old C.K. Sprengel called + "dichogamy," and which is so frequent in truly hermaphrodite groups; + namely, the pollen and stigma of each flower being mature at different + periods. If I am right, it is very advisable not to use the term + "dioecious," as this at once brings notions of separation of sexes. + </p> + <p> + ... I was much perplexed by Oliver's remarks in the 'Natural History + Review' on the Primula case, on the lower plants having sexes more often + separated than in the higher plants,—so exactly the reverse of what + takes place in animals. Hooker in his review of the 'Orchids' repeats this + remark. There seems to be much truth in what you say ("Forms which are low + in the scale as respects morphological completeness may be high in the + scale of rank founded on specialisation of structure and function."—Dr. + Gray, in 'Silliman's Journal.'), and it did not occur to me, about no + improbability of specialisation in CERTAIN lines in lowly organised + beings. I could hardly doubt that the hermaphrodite state is the + aboriginal one. But how is it in the conjugation of Confervae—is not + one of the two individuals here in fact male, and the other female? I have + been much puzzled by this contrast in sexual arrangements between plants + and animals. Can there be anything in the following consideration: By + ROUGHEST calculation about one-third of the British GENERA of aquatic + plants belong to the Linnean classes of Mono and Dioecia; whilst of + terrestrial plants (the aquatic genera being subtracted) only + one-thirteenth of the genera belong to these two classes. Is there any + truth in this fact generally? Can aquatic plants, being confined to a + small area or small community of individuals, require more free crossing, + and therefore have separate sexes? But to return to our point, does not + Alph. de Candolle say that aquatic plants taken as a whole are lowly + organised, compared with terrestrial; and may not Oliver's remark on the + separation of the sexes in lowly organised plants stand in some relation + to their being frequently aquatic? Or is this all rubbish? + </p> + <p> + ... What a magnificent compliment you end your review with! You and Hooker + seem determined to turn my head with conceit and vanity (if not already + turned) and make me an unbearable wretch. + </p> + <p> + With most cordial thanks, my good and kind friend, Farewell, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following passage from a letter (July 28, 1863), to Prof. Hildebrand, + contains a reference to the reception of the dimorphic work in France:— + </p> + <p> + "I am extremely much pleased to hear that you have been looking at the + manner of fertilisation of your native Orchids, and still more pleased to + hear that you have been experimenting on Linum. I much hope that you may + publish the result of these experiments; because I was told that the most + eminent French botanists of Paris said that my paper on Primula was the + work of imagination, and that the case was so improbable they did not + believe in my results."] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. April 19 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + ... I received a little time ago a paper with a good account of your + Herbarium and Library, and a long time previously your excellent review of + Scott's 'Primulaceae,' and I forwarded it to him in India, as it would + much please him. I was very glad to see in it a new case of Dimorphism (I + forget just now the name of the plant); I shall be grateful to hear of any + other cases, as I still feel an interest in the subject. I should be very + glad to get some seed of your dimorphic Plantagos; for I cannot banish the + suspicion that they must belong to a very different class like that of the + common Thyme. (In this prediction he was right. See 'Forms of Flowers,' + page 307.) How could the wind, which is the agent of fertilisation, with + Plantago, fertilise "reciprocally dimorphic" flowers like Primula? Theory + says this cannot be, and in such cases of one's own theories I follow + Agassiz and declare, "that nature never lies." I should even be very glad + to examine the two dried forms of Plantago. Indeed, any dried dimorphic + plants would be gratefully received... + </p> + <p> + Did my Lythrum paper interest you? I crawl on at the rate of two hours per + diem, with 'Variation under Domestication.' + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, November 26 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + ... You do not know how pleased I am that you have read my Lythrum paper; + I thought you would not have time, and I have for long years looked at you + as my Public, and care more for your opinion than that of all the rest of + the world. I have done nothing which has interested me so much as Lythrum, + since making out the complemental males of Cirripedes. I fear that I have + dragged in too much miscellaneous matter into the paper. + </p> + <p> + ... I get letters occasionally, which show me that Natural Selection is + making GREAT progress in Germany, and some amongst the young in France. I + have just received a pamphlet from Germany, with the complimentary title + of "Darwinische Arten-Enstehung-Humbug"! + </p> + <p> + Farewell, my best of old friends, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. September 10, [1867?]. + </p> + <p> + ... The only point which I have made out this summer, which could possibly + interest you, is that the common Oxlip found everywhere, more or less + commonly in England, is certainly a hybrid between the primrose and + cowslip; whilst the P. elatior (Jacq.), found only in the Eastern + Counties, is a perfectly distinct and good species; hardly distinguishable + from the common oxlip, except by the length of the seed-capsule relatively + to the calyx. This seems to me rather a horrid fact for all systematic + botanists... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. HILDEBRAND. Down, November 16, 1868. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote my last note in such a hurry from London, that I quite forgot what + I chiefly wished to say, namely to thank you for your excellent notices in + the 'Bot. Zeitung' of my paper on the offspring of dimorphic plants. The + subject is so obscure that I did not expect that any one would have + noticed my paper, and I am accordingly very much pleased that you should + have brought the subject before the many excellent naturalists of Germany. + </p> + <p> + Of all the German authors (but they are not many) whose works I have read, + you write by far the clearest style, but whether this is a compliment to a + German writer I do not know. + </p> + <p> + [The two following letters refer to the small bud-like "Cleistogamic" + flowers found in the violet and many other plants. They do not open and + are necessarily self-fertilised:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, May 30 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + ... What will become of my book on Variation? I am involved in a + multiplicity of experiments. I have been amusing myself by looking at the + small flowers of Viola. If Oliver (Shortly afterwards he wrote: "Oliver, + the omniscient, has sent me a paper in the 'Bot. Zeitung,' with most + accurate description of all that I saw in Viola.") has had time to study + them, he will have seen the curious case (as it seems to me) which I have + just made clearly out, viz. that in these flowers, the FEW pollen grains + are never shed, or never leave the anther-cells, but emit long pollen + tubes, which penetrate the stigma. To-day I got the anther with the + included pollen grain (now empty) at one end, and a bundle of tubes + penetrating the stigmatic tissue at the other end; I got the whole under a + microscope without breaking the tubes; I wonder whether the stigma pours + some fluid into the anther so as to excite the included grains. It is a + rather odd case of correlation, that in the double sweet violet the small + flowers are double; i.e., have a multitude of minute scales representing + the petals. What queer little flowers they are. + </p> + <p> + Have you had time to read poor dear Henslow's life? it has interested me + for the man's sake, and, what I did not think possible, has even exalted + his character in my estimation... + </p> + <p> + [The following is an extract from the letter given in part above, and + refers to Dr. Gray's article on the sexual differences of plants:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. NOVEMBER 26 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + ... You will think that I am in the most unpleasant, contradictory, + fractious humour, when I tell you that I do not like your term of + "precocious fertilisation" for your second class of dimorphism [i.e. for + cleistogamic fertilisation]. If I can trust my memory, the state of the + corolla, of the stigma, and the pollen-grains is different from the state + of the parts in the bud; that they are in a condition of special + modification. But upon my life I am ashamed of myself to differ so much + from my betters on this head. The TEMPORARY theory (This view is now + generally accepted.) which I have formed on this class of dimorphism, just + to guide experiment, is that the PERFECT flowers can only be perfectly + fertilised by insects, and are in this case abundantly crossed; but that + the flowers are not always, especially in early spring, visited enough by + insects, and therefore the little imperfect self-fertilising flowers are + developed to ensure a sufficiency of seed for present generations. Viola + canina is sterile, when not visited by insects, but when so visited forms + plenty of seed. I infer from the structure of three or four forms of + Balsamineae, that these require insects; at least there is almost as plain + adaptation to insects as in the Orchids. I have Oxalis acetosella ready in + pots for experiment next spring; and I fear this will upset my little + theory... Campanula carpathica, as I found this summer, is absolutely + sterile if insects are excluded. Specularia speculum is fairly fertile + when enclosed; and this seemed to me to be partially effected by the + frequent closing of the flower; the inward angular folds of the corolla + corresponding with the clefts of the open stigma, and in this action + pushing pollen from the outside of the stigma on to its surface. Now can + you tell me, does S. perfoliata close its flower like S. speculum, with + angular inward folds? if so, I am smashed without some fearful + "wriggling." Are the IMPERFECT flowers of your Specularia the early or the + later ones? very early or very late? It is rather pretty to see the + importance of the closing of flowers of S. speculum. + </p> + <p> + ['Forms of Flowers' was published in July; in June, 1877, he wrote to + Professor Carus with regard to the translation:— + </p> + <p> + "My new book is not a long one, viz. 350 pages, chiefly of the larger + type, with fifteen simple woodcuts. All the proofs are corrected except + the Index, so that it will soon be published. + </p> + <p> + "... I do not suppose that I shall publish any more books, though perhaps + a few more papers. I cannot endure being idle, but heaven knows whether I + am capable of any more good work." + </p> + <p> + The review alluded to in the next letter is at page 445 of the volume of + 'Nature' for 1878:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. Down, April 5, 1878. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + I have just read in 'Nature' the review of 'Forms of Flowers,' and I am + sure that it is by you. I wish with all my heart that it deserved one + quarter of the praises which you give it. Some of your remarks have + interested me greatly... Hearty thanks for your generous and most kind + sympathy, which does a man real good, when he is as dog-tired as I am at + this minute with working all day, so good-bye. + </p> + <p> + C. DARWIN. <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XIII. — CLIMBING AND INSECTIVOROUS PLANTS. + </h2> + <p> + [My father mentions in his 'Autobiography' (volume i.) that he was led to + take up the subject of climbing plants by reading Dr. Gray's paper, "Note + on the Coiling of the Tendrils of Plants." ('Proc. Amer. Acad. of Arts and + Sciences,' 1858.) This essay seems to have been read in 1862, but I am + only able to guess at the date of the letter in which he asks for a + reference to it, so that the precise date of his beginning this work + cannot be determined. + </p> + <p> + In June 1863 he was certainly at work, and wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker for + information as to previous publications on the subject, being then in + ignorance of Palm's and H. v. Mohl's works on climbing plants, both of + which were published in 1827.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down [June] 25 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I have been observing pretty carefully a little fact which has surprised + me; and I want to know from you and Oliver whether it seems new or odd to + you, so just tell me whenever you write; it is a very trifling fact, so do + not answer on purpose. + </p> + <p> + I have got a plant of Echinocystis lobata to observe the irritability of + the tendrils described by Asa Gray, and which of course, is plain enough. + Having the plant in my study, I have been surprised to find that the + uppermost part of each branch (i.e. the stem between the two uppermost + leaves excluding the growing tip) is CONSTANTLY and slowly twisting round + making a circle in from one-half to two hours; it will sometimes go round + two or three times, and then at the same rate untwists and twists in + opposite directions. It generally rests half an hour before it + retrogrades. The stem does not become permanently twisted. The stem + beneath the twisting portion does not move in the least, though not tied. + The movement goes on all day and all early night. It has no relation to + light for the plant stands in my window and twists from the light just as + quickly as towards it. This may be a common phenomenon for what I know, + but it confounded me quite, when I began to observe the irritability of + the tendrils. I do not say it is the final cause, but the result is + pretty, for the plant every one and a half or two hours sweeps a circle + (according to the length of the bending shoot and the length of the + tendril) of from one foot to twenty inches in diameter, and immediately + that the tendril touches any object its sensitiveness causes it + immediately to seize it; a clever gardener, my neighbour, who saw the + plant on my table last night, said: "I believe, Sir, the tendrils can see, + for wherever I put a plant it finds out any stick near enough." I believe + the above is the explanation, viz. that it sweeps slowly round and round. + The tendrils have some sense, for they do not grasp each other when young. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, July 14 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + I am getting very much amused by my tendrils, it is just the sort of + niggling work which suits me, and takes up no time and rather rests me + whilst writing. So will you just think whether you know any plant, which + you could give or lend me, or I could buy, with tendrils, remarkable in + any way for development, for odd or peculiar structure, or even for an odd + place in natural arrangement. I have seen or can see Cucurbitaceae, + Passion-flower, Virginian-creeper, Cissus discolor, Common-pea and + Everlasting-pea. It is really curious the diversification of irritability + (I do not mean the spontaneous movement, about which I wrote before and + correctly, as further observation shows): for instance, I find a slight + pinch between the thumb and finger at the end of the tendril of the + Cucurbitaceae causes prompt movement, but a pinch excites no movement in + Cissus. The cause is that one side alone (the concave) is irritable in the + former; whereas both sides are irritable in Cissus, so if you excite at + the same time both OPPOSITE sides there is no movement, but by touching + with a pencil the two branches of the tendril, in any part whatever, you + cause movement towards that point; so that I can mould, by a mere touch, + the two branches into any shape I like... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, August 4 [1863]. + </p> + <p> + My present hobby-horse I owe to you, viz. the tendrils: their irritability + is beautiful, as beautiful in all its modifications as anything in + Orchids. About the SPONTANEOUS movement (independent of touch) of the + tendrils and upper internodes, I am rather taken aback by your saying, "is + it not wel-known?" I can find nothing in any book which I have... The + spontaneous movement of the tendrils is independent of the movement of the + upper internodes, but both work harmoniously together in sweeping a circle + for the tendrils to grasp a stick. So with all climbing plants (without + tendrils) as yet examined, the upper internodes go on night and day + sweeping a circle in one fixed direction. It is surprising to watch the + Apocyneae with shoots 18 inches long (beyond the supporting stick), + steadily searching for something to climb up. When the shoot meets a + stick, the motion at that point is arrested, but in the upper part is + continued; so that the climbing of all plants yet examined is the simple + result of the spontaneous circulatory movement of the upper internodes. + Pray tell me whether anything has been published on this subject? I hate + publishing what is old; but I shall hardly regret my work if it is old, as + it has much amused me... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. May 28, 1864. + </p> + <p> + ... An Irish nobleman on his death-bed declared that he could + conscientiously say that he had never throughout life denied himself any + pleasure; and I can conscientiously say that I have never scrupled to + trouble you; so here goes.—Have you travelled South, and can you + tell me whether the trees, which Bignonia capreolata climbs, are covered + with moss or filamentous lichen or Tillandsia? (He subsequently learned + from Dr. Gray that Polypodium incanum abounds on the trees in the + districts where this species of Bignonia grows. See 'Climbing Plants,' + page 103.) I ask because its tendrils abhor a simple stick, do not much + relish rough bark, but delight in wool or moss. They adhere in a curious + manner by making little disks, like the Ampelopsis... By the way, I will + enclose some specimens, and if you think it worth while, you can put them + under the simple microscope. It is remarkable how specially adapted some + tendrils are; those of Eccremocarpus scaber do not like a stick, will have + nothing to say to wool; but give them a bundle of culms of grass, or a + bundle of bristles and they seize them well. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, June 10 [1864]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have now read two German books, and all I believe that has been + written on climbers, and it has stirred me up to find that I have a good + deal of new matter. It is strange, but I really think no one has explained + simple twining plants. These books have stirred me up, and made me wish + for plants specified in them. I shall be very glad of those you mention. I + have written to Veitch for young Nepenthes and Vanilla (which I believe + will turn out a grand case, though a root creeper), if I cannot buy young + Vanilla I will ask you. I have ordered a leaf-climbing fern, Lygodium. All + this work about climbers would hurt my conscience, did I think I could do + harder work. (He was much out of health at this time.) + </p> + <p> + [He continued his observations on climbing plants during the prolonged + illness from which he suffered in the autumn of 1863, and in the following + spring. He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker, apparently in March 1864:— + </p> + <p> + "For several days I have been decidedly better, and what I lay much stress + on (whatever doctors say), my brain feels far stronger, and I have lost + many dreadful sensations. The hot-house is such an amusement to me, and my + amusement I owe to you, as my delight is to look at the many odd leaves + and plants from Kew... The only approach to work which I can do is to look + at tendrils and climbers, this does not distress my weakened brain. Ask + Oliver to look over the enclosed queries (and do you look) and amuse a + broken-down brother naturalist by answering any which he can. If you ever + lounge through your houses, remember me and climbing plants." + </p> + <p> + On October 29, 1864, he wrote to Dr. Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "I have not been able to resist doing a little more at your godchild, my + climbing paper, or rather in size little book, which by Jove I will have + copied out, else I shall never stop. This has been new sort of work for + me, and I have been pleased to find what a capital guide for observations + a full conviction of the change of species is." + </p> + <p> + On January 19, 1865, he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "It is working hours, but I am trying to take a day's holiday, for I + finished and despatched yesterday my climbing paper. For the last ten days + I have done nothing but correct refractory sentences, and I loathe the + whole subject." + </p> + <p> + A letter to Dr. Gray, April 9, 1865, has a word or two on the subject:— + </p> + <p> + "I have begun correcting proofs of my paper on 'Climbing Plants.' I + suppose I shall be able to send you a copy in four or five weeks. I think + it contains a good deal new and some curious points, but it is so + fearfully long, that no one will ever read it. If, however, you do not + SKIM through it, you will be an unnatural parent, for it is your child." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Gray not only read it but approved of it, to my father's great + satisfaction, as the following extracts show:— + </p> + <p> + "I was much pleased to get your letter of July 24th. Now that I can do + nothing, I maunder over old subjects, and your approbation of my climbing + paper gives me VERY great satisfaction. I made my observations when I + could do nothing else and much enjoyed it, but always doubted whether they + were worth publishing. I demur to its not being necessary to explain in + detail about the spires in CAUGHT tendrils running in opposite directions; + for the fact for a long time confounded me, and I have found it difficult + enough to explain the cause to two or three persons." (August 15, 1865.) + </p> + <p> + "I received yesterday your article (In the September number of 'Silliman's + Journal,' concluded in the January number, 1866.) on climbers, and it has + pleased me in an extraordinary and even silly manner. You pay me a superb + compliment, and as I have just said to my wife, I think my friends must + perceive that I like praise, they give me such hearty doses. I always + admire your skill in reviews or abstracts, and you have done this article + excellently and given the whole essence of my paper... I have had a letter + from a good Zoologist in S. Brazil, F. Muller, who has been stirred up to + observe climbers and gives me some curious cases of BRANCH-climbers, in + which branches are converted into tendrils, and then continue to grow and + throw out leaves and new branches, and then lose their tendril character." + (October 1865.) + </p> + <p> + The paper on Climbing Plants was republished in 1875, as a separate book. + The author had been unable to give his customary amount of care to the + style of the original essay, owing to the fact that it was written during + a period of continued ill-health, and it was now found to require a great + deal of alteration. He wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker (March 3, 1875): "It is + lucky for authors in general that they do not require such dreadful work + in merely licking what they write into shape." And to Mr. Murray in + September he wrote: "The corrections are heavy in 'Climbing Plants,' and + yet I deliberately went over the MS. and old sheets three times." The book + was published in September 1875, an edition of 1500 copies was struck off; + the edition sold fairly well, and 500 additional copies were printed in + June of the following year.] + </p> + <p> + INSECTIVOROUS PLANTS. + </p> + <p> + [In the summer of 1860 he was staying at the house of his sister-in-law, + Miss Wedgwood, in Ashdown Forest, whence he wrote (July 29, 1860), to Sir + Joseph Hooker;— + </p> + <p> + "Latterly I have done nothing here; but at first I amused myself with a + few observations on the insect-catching power of Drosera; and I must + consult you some time whether my 'twaddle' is worth communicating to the + Linnean Society." + </p> + <p> + In August he wrote to the same friend:— + </p> + <p> + "I will gratefully send my notes on Drosera when copied by my copier: the + subject amused me when I had nothing to do." + </p> + <p> + He has described in the 'Autobiography' (volume i.), the general nature of + these early experiments. He noticed insects sticking to the leaves, and + finding that flies, etc., placed on the adhesive glands were held fast and + embraced, he suspected that the leaves were adapted to supply nitrogenous + food to the plant. He therefore tried the effect on the leaves of various + nitrogenous fluids—with results which, as far as they went, verified + his surmise. In September, 1860, he wrote to Dr. Gray:— + </p> + <p> + "I have been infinitely amused by working at Drosera: the movements are + really curious; and the manner in which the leaves detect certain + nitrogenous compounds is marvellous. You will laugh; but it is, at + present, my full belief (after endless experiments) that they detect (and + move in consequence of) the 1/2880 part of a single grain of nitrate of + ammonia; but the muriate and sulphate of ammonia bother their chemical + skill, and they cannot make anything of the nitrogen in these salts! I + began this work on Drosera in relation to GRADATION as throwing light on + Dionaea." + </p> + <p> + Later in the autumn he was again obliged to leave home for Eastbourne, + where he continued his work on Drosera. The work was so new to him that he + found himself in difficulties in the preparation of solutions, and became + puzzled over fluid and solid ounces, etc. etc. To a friend, the late Mr. + E. Cresy, who came to his help in the matter of weights and measures, he + wrote giving an account of the experiments. The extract (November 2, 1860) + which follows illustrates the almost superstitious precautions he often + applied to his researches:— + </p> + <p> + "Generally I have scrutinised every gland and hair on the leaf before + experimenting; but it occurred to me that I might in some way affect the + leaf; though this is almost impossible, as I scrutinised with equal care + those that I put into distilled water (the same water being used for + dissolving the carbonate of ammonia). I then cut off four leaves (not + touching them with my fingers), and put them in plain water, and four + other leaves into the weak solution, and after leaving them for an hour + and a half, I examined every hair on all eight leaves; no change on the + four in water; every gland and hair affected in those in ammonia. + </p> + <p> + "I had measured the quantity of weak solution, and I counted the glands + which had absorbed the ammonia, and were plainly affected; the result + convinced me that each gland could not have absorbed more than 1/64000 or + 1/65000 of a grain. I have tried numbers of other experiments all pointing + to the same result. Some experiments lead me to believe that very + sensitive leaves are acted on by much smaller doses. Reflect how little + ammonia a plant can get growing on poor soil—yet it is nourished. + The really surprising part seems to me that the effect should be visible, + and not under very high power; for after trying a high power, I thought it + would be safer not to consider any effect which was not plainly visible + under a two-thirds object glass and middle eye-piece. The effect which the + carbonate of ammonia produces is the segregation of the homogeneous fluid + in the cells into a cloud of granules and colourless fluid; and + subsequently the granules coalesce into larger masses, and for hours have + the oddest movements—coalescing, dividing, coalescing ad infinitum. + I do not know whether you will care for these ill-written details; but, as + you asked, I am sure I am bound to comply, after all the very kind and + great trouble which you have taken." + </p> + <p> + On his return home he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker (November 21, 1860):— + </p> + <p> + "I have been working like a madman at Drosera. Here is a fact for you + which is certain as you stand where you are, though you won't believe it, + that a bit of hair 1/78000 of one grain in weight placed on gland, will + cause ONE of the gland-bearing hairs of Drosera to curve inwards, and will + alter the condition of the contents of every cell in the foot-stalk of the + gland." + </p> + <p> + And a few days later to Lyell:— + </p> + <p> + "I will and must finish my Drosera MS., which will take me a week, for, at + the present moment, I care more about Drosera than the origin of all the + species in the world. But I will not publish on Drosera till next year, + for I am frightened and astounded at my results. I declare it is a certain + fact, that one organ is so sensitive to touch, that a weight seventy-eight + times less than that, viz., 1/1000 of a grain, which will move the best + chemical balance, suffices to cause a conspicuous movement. Is it not + curious that a plant should be far more sensitive to the touch than any + nerve in the human body? Yet I am perfectly sure that this is true. When I + am on my hobby-horse, I never can resist telling my friends how well my + hobby goes, so you must forgive the rider." + </p> + <p> + The work was continued, as a holiday task, at Bournemouth, where he stayed + during the autumn of 1862. The discussion in the following letter on + "nervous matter" in Drosera is of interest in relation to recent + researches on the continuity of protoplasm from cell to cell:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Cliff Cottage, Bournemouth. + September 26 [1862]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, + </p> + <p> + Do not read this till you have leisure. If that blessed moment ever comes, + I should be very glad to have your opinion on the subject of this letter. + I am led to the opinion that Drosera must have diffused matter in organic + connection, closely analogous to the nervous matter of animals. When the + glands of one of the papillae or tentacles, in its natural position is + supplied with nitrogenised fluid and certain other stimulants, or when + loaded with an extremely slight weight, or when struck several times with + a needle, the pedicel bends near its base in under one minute. These + varied stimulants are conveyed down the pedicel by some means; it cannot + be vibration, for drops of fluid put on quite quietly cause the movement; + it cannot be absorption of the fluid from cell to cell, for I can see the + rate of absorption, which though quick, is far slower, and in Dionaea the + transmission is instantaneous; analogy from animals would point to + transmission through nervous matter. Reflecting on the rapid power of + absorption in the glands, the extreme sensibility of the whole organ, and + the conspicuous movement caused by varied stimulants, I have tried a + number of substances which are not caustic or corrosive,... but most of + which are known to have a remarkable action on the nervous matter of + animals. You will see the results in the enclosed paper. As the nervous + matter of different animals are differently acted on by the same poisons, + one would not expect the same action on plants and animals; only if plants + have diffused nervous matter, some degree of analogous action. And this is + partially the case. Considering these experiments, together with the + previously made remarks on the functions of the parts, I cannot avoid the + conclusion, that Drosera possesses matter at least in some degree + analogous in constitution and function to nervous matter. Now do tell me + what you think, as far as you can judge from my abstract; of course many + more experiments would have to be tried; but in former years I tried on + the whole leaf, instead of on separate glands, a number of innocuous (This + line of investigation made him wish for information on the action of + poisons on plants; as in many other cases he applied to Professor Oliver, + and in reference to the result wrote to Hooker: "Pray thank Oliver + heartily for his heap of references on poisons.") substances, such as + sugar, gum, starch, etc., and they produced no effect. Your opinion will + aid me in deciding some future year in going on with this subject. I + should not have thought it worth attempting, but I had nothing on earth to + do. + </p> + <p> + My dear Hooker, Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—We return home on Monday 28th. Thank Heaven! + </p> + <p> + [A long break now ensued in his work on insectivorous plants, and it was + not till 1872 that the subject seriously occupied him again. A passage in + a letter to Dr. Asa Gray, written in 1863 or 1864, shows, however, that + the question was not altogether absent from his mind in the interim:— + </p> + <p> + "Depend on it you are unjust on the merits of my beloved Drosera; it is a + wonderful plant, or rather a most sagacious animal. I will stick up for + Drosera to the day of my death. Heaven knows whether I shall ever publish + my pile of experiments on it." + </p> + <p> + He notes in his diary that the last proof of the 'Expression of the + Emotions' was finished on August 22, 1872, and that he began to work on + Drosera on the following day.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. [Sevenoaks], October 22 [1872]. + </p> + <p> + ... I have worked pretty hard for four or five weeks on Drosera, and then + broke down; so that we took a house near Sevenoaks for three weeks (where + I now am) to get complete rest. I have very little power of working now, + and must put off the rest of the work on Drosera till next spring, as my + plants are dying. It is an endless subject, and I must cut it short, and + for this reason shall not do much on Dionaea. The point which has + interested me most is tracing the NERVES! which follow the vascular + bundles. By a prick with a sharp lancet at a certain point, I can paralyse + one-half the leaf, so that a stimulus to the other half causes no + movement. It is just like dividing the spinal marrow of a frog:—no + stimulus can be sent from the brain or anterior part of the spine to the + hind legs; but if these latter are stimulated, they move by reflex action. + I find my old results about the astonishing sensitiveness of the nervous + system (!?)of Drosera to various stimulants fully confirmed and + extended... + </p> + <p> + [His work on digestion in Drosera and other points in the physiology of + the plant soon led him into regions where his knowledge was defective, and + here the advice and assistance which he received from Dr. Burdon Sanderson + was of much value:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J. BURDON SANDERSON. Down, July 25, 1873. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dr. Sanderson, + </p> + <p> + I should like to tell you a little about my recent work with Drosera, to + show that I have profited by your suggestions, and to ask a question or + two. + </p> + <p> + 1. It is really beautiful how quickly and well Drosera and Dionaea + dissolve little cubes of albumen and gelatine. I kept the same sized cubes + on wet moss for comparison. When you were here I forgot that I had tried + gelatine, but albumen is far better for watching its dissolution and + absorption. Frankland has told me how to test in a rough way for pepsin; + and in the autumn he will discover what acid the digestive juice contains. + </p> + <p> + 2. A decoction of cabbage-leaves and green peas causes as much inflection + as an infusion of raw meat; a decoction of grass is less powerful. Though + I hear that the chemists try to precipitate all albumen from the extract + of belladonna, I think they must fail, as the extract causes inflection, + whereas a new lot of atropine, as well as the valerianate [of atropine], + produce no effect. + </p> + <p> + 3. I have been trying a good many experiments with heated water... Should + you not call the following case one of heat rigor? Two leaves were heated + to 130 deg, and had every tentacle closely inflected; one was taken out + and placed in cold water, and it re-expanded; the other was heated to 145 + deg, and had not the least power of re-expansion. Is not this latter case + heat rigor? If you can inform me, I should very much like to hear at what + temperature cold-blooded and invertebrate animals are killed. + </p> + <p> + 4. I must tell you my final result, of which I am sure, [as to] the + sensitiveness of Drosera. I made a solution of one part of phosphate of + ammonia by weight to 218,750 of water; of this solution I gave so much + that a leaf got 1/8000 of a grain of the phosphate. I then counted the + glands, and each could have got only 1/1552000 of a grain; this being + absorbed by the glands, sufficed to cause the tentacles bearing these + glands to bend through an angle of 180 deg. Such sensitiveness requires + hot weather, and carefully selected young yet mature leaves. It strikes me + as a wonderful fact. I must add that I took every precaution, by trying + numerous leaves at the same time in the solution and in the same water + which was used for making the solution. + </p> + <p> + 5. If you can persuade your friend to try the effects of carbonate of + ammonia on the aggregation of the white blood corpuscles, I should very + much like to hear the result. + </p> + <p> + I hope this letter will not have wearied you. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. Down, 24 [December 1873?]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Dyer, + </p> + <p> + I fear that you will think me a great bore, but I cannot resist telling + you that I have just found out that the leaves of Pinguicula possess a + beautifully adapted power of movement. Last night I put on a row of little + flies near one edge of two YOUNGISH leaves; and after 14 hours these edges + are beautifully folded over so as to clasp the flies, thus bringing the + glands into contact with the upper surfaces of the flies, and they are now + secreting copiously above and below the flies and no doubt absorbing. The + acid secretion has run down the channelled edge and has collected in the + spoon-shaped extremity, where no doubt the glands are absorbing the + delicious soup. The leaf on one side looks just like the helix of a human + ear, if you were to stuff flies within the fold. Yours most sincerely, + </p> + <p> + CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 3 [1874]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am now hard at work getting my book on Drosera & Co. ready for + the printers, but it will take some time, for I am always finding out new + points to observe. I think you will be interested by my observations on + the digestive process in Drosera; the secretion contains an acid of the + acetic series, and some ferment closely analogous to, but not identical + with, pepsin; for I have been making a long series of comparative trials. + No human being will believe what I shall publish about the smallness of + the doses of phosphate of ammonia which act. + </p> + <p> + ... I began reading the Madagascar squib (A description of a carnivorous + plant supposed to subsist on human beings.) quite gravely, and when I + found it stated that Felis and Bos inhabited Madagascar, I thought it was + a false story, and did not perceive it was a hoax till I came to the + woman... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F.C. DONDERS. (Professor Donders, the + well-known physiologist of Utrecht.) Down, July 7, 1874. + </p> + <p> + My dear Professor Donders, + </p> + <p> + My son George writes to me that he has seen you, and that you have been + very kind to him, for which I return to you my cordial thanks. He tells me + on your authority, of a fact which interests me in the highest degree, and + which I much wish to be allowed to quote. It relates to the action of one + millionth of a grain of atropine on the eye. Now will you be so kind, + whenever you can find a little leisure, to tell me whether you yourself + have observed this fact, or believe it on good authority. I also wish to + know what proportion by weight the atropine bore to the water solution, + and how much of the solution was applied to the eye. The reason why I am + so anxious on this head is that it gives some support to certain facts + repeatedly observed by me with respect to the action of phosphate of + ammonia on Drosera. The 1/4000000 of a grain absorbed by a gland clearly + makes the tentacle which bears this gland become inflected; and I am fully + convinced that 1/20000000 of a grain of the crystallised salt (i.e. + containing about one-third of its weight of water of crystallisation) does + the same. Now I am quite unhappy at the thought of having to publish such + a statement. It will be of great value to me to be able to give any + analogous facts in support. The case of Drosera is all the more + interesting as the absorption of the salt or any other stimulant applied + to the gland causes it to transmit a motor influence to the base of the + tentacle which bears the gland. + </p> + <p> + Pray forgive me for troubling you, and do not trouble yourself to answer + this until your health is fully re-established. + </p> + <p> + Pray believe me, Yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [During the summer of 1874 he was at work on the genus Utricularia, and he + wrote (July 16th) to Sir J.D. Hooker giving some account of the progress + of his work:— + </p> + <p> + "I am rather glad you have not been able to send Utricularia, for the + common species has driven F. and me almost mad. The structure is MOST + complex. The bladders catch a multitude of Entomostraca, and larvae of + insects. The mechanism for capture is excellent. But there is much that we + cannot understand. From what I have seen to-day, I strongly suspect that + it is necrophagous, i.e. that it cannot digest, but absorbs decaying + matter." + </p> + <p> + He was indebted to Lady Dorothy Nevill for specimens of the curious + Utricularia montana, which is not aquatic like the European species, but + grows among the moss and debris on the branches of trees. To this species + the following letter refers:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO LADY DOROTHY NEVILL. Down September 18 [1874]. + </p> + <p> + Dear Lady Dorothy Nevill, + </p> + <p> + I am so much obliged to you. I was so convinced that the bladders were + with the leaves that I never thought of removing the moss, and this was + very stupid of me. The great solid bladder-like swellings almost on the + surface are wonderful objects, but are not the true bladders. These I + found on the roots near the surface, and down to a depth of two inches in + the sand. They are as transparent as glass, from 1/20 to 1/100 of an inch + in size, and hollow. They have all the important points of structure of + the bladders of the floating English species, and I felt confident I + should find captured prey. And so I have to my delight in two bladders, + with clear proof that they had absorbed food from the decaying mass. For + Utricularia is a carrion-feeder, and not strictly carnivorous like + Drosera. + </p> + <p> + The great solid bladder-like bodies, I believe, are reservoirs of water + like a camel's stomach. As soon as I have made a few more observations, I + mean to be so cruel as to give your plant no water, and observe whether + the great bladders shrink and contain air instead of water; I shall then + also wash all earth from all roots, and see whether there are true + bladders for capturing subterranean insects down to the very bottom of the + pot. Now shall you think me very greedy, if I say that supposing the + species is not very precious, and you have several, will you give me one + more plant, and if so, please to send it to "Orpington Station, S.E.R., to + be forwarded by foot messenger." + </p> + <p> + I have hardly ever enjoyed a day more in my life than I have this day's + work; and this I owe to your Ladyship's great kindness. + </p> + <p> + The seeds are very curious monsters; I fancy of some plant allied to + Medicago, but I will show them to Dr. Hooker. + </p> + <p> + Your ladyship's very gratefully, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER. Down, September 30, 1874. + </p> + <p> + My dear H., + </p> + <p> + Your magnificent present of Aldrovanda has arrived quite safe. I have + enjoyed greatly a good look at the shut leaves, one of which I cut open. + It is an aquatic Dionaea, which has acquired some structures identical + with those of Utricularia! + </p> + <p> + If the leaves open and I can transfer them open under the microscope, I + will try some experiments, for mortal man cannot resist the temptation. If + I cannot transfer, I will do nothing, for otherwise it would require + hundreds of leaves. + </p> + <p> + You are a good man to give me such pleasure. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The manuscript of 'Insectivorous Plants' was finished in March 1875. He + seems to have been more than usually oppressed by the writing of this + book, thus he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker in February:— + </p> + <p> + "You ask about my book, and all that I can say is that I am ready to + commit suicide; I thought it was decently written, but find so much wants + rewriting, that it will not be ready to go to printers for two months, and + will then make a confoundedly big book. Murray will say that it is no use + publishing in the middle of summer, so I do not know what will be the + upshot; but I begin to think that every one who publishes a book is a + fool." + </p> + <p> + The book was published on July 2nd, 1875, and 2700 copies were sold out of + the edition of 3000.] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XIV. — THE 'POWER OF MOVEMENT IN PLANTS.' + </h2> + <h3> + 1880. + </h3> + <p> + [The few sentences in the autobiographical chapter give with sufficient + clearness the connection between the 'Power of Movement,' and one of the + author's earlier books, that on 'Climbing Plants.' The central idea of the + book is that the movements of plants in relation to light, gravitation, + etc., are modifications of a spontaneous tendency to revolve or + circumnutate, which is widely inherent in the growing parts of plants. + This conception has not been generally adopted, and has not taken a place + among the canons of orthodox physiology. The book has been treated by + Professor Sachs with a few words of professorial contempt; and by + Professor Wiesner it has been honoured by careful and generously expressed + criticism. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thiselton Dyer ('Charles Darwin' ('Nature' Series), page 41.) has well + said: "Whether this masterly conception of the unity of what has hitherto + seemed a chaos of unrelated phenomena will be sustained, time alone will + show. But no one can doubt the importance of what Mr. Darwin has done, in + showing that for the future the phenomena of plant movement can and indeed + must be studied from a single point of view." + </p> + <p> + The work was begun in the summer of 1877, after the publication of + 'Different Forms of Flowers,' and by the autumn his enthusiasm for the + subject was thoroughly established, and he wrote to Mr. Dyer: "I am all on + fire at the work." At this time he was studying the movements of + cotyledons, in which the sleep of plants is to be observed in its simplest + form; in the following spring he was trying to discover what useful + purpose these sleep-movements could serve, and wrote to Sir Joseph Hooker + (March 25th, 1878):— + </p> + <p> + "I think we have PROVED that the sleep of plants is to lessen the injury + to the leaves from radiation. This has interested me much, and has cost us + great labour, as it has been a problem since the time of Linnaeus. But we + have killed or badly injured a multitude of plants: N.B.—Oxalis + carnosa was most valuable, but last night was killed." + </p> + <p> + His letters of this period do not give any connected account of the + progress of the work. The two following are given as being characteristic + of the author:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. Down, June 2, 1878. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + I remember saying that I should die a disgraced man if I did not observe a + seedling Cactus and Cycas, and you have saved me from this horrible fate, + as they move splendidly and normally. But I have two questions to ask: the + Cycas observed was a huge seed in a broad and very shallow pot with + cocoa-nut fibre as I suppose. It was named only Cycas. Was it Cycas + pectinata? I suppose that I cannot be wrong in believing that what first + appears above ground is a true leaf, for I can see no stem or axis. + Lastly, you may remember that I said that we could not raise Opuntia + nigricans; now I must confess to a piece of stupidity; one did come up, + but my gardener and self stared at it, and concluded that it could not be + a seedling Opuntia, but now that I have seen one of O. basilaris, I am + sure it was; I observed it only casually, and saw movements, which makes + me wish to observe carefully another. If you have any fruit, will Mr. + Lynch (Mr. R.I. Lynch, now Curator of the Botanic Garden at Cambridge was + at this time in the Royal Gardens, Kew.) be so kind as to send one more? + </p> + <p> + I am working away like a slave at radicles [roots] and at movements of + true leaves, for I have pretty well done with cotyledons... + </p> + <p> + That was an EXCELLENT letter about the Gardens (This refers to an attempt + to induce the Government to open the Royal Gardens at Kew in the + morning.): I had hoped that the agitation was over. Politicians are a poor + truckling lot, for [they] must see the wretched effects of keeping the + gardens open all day long. + </p> + <p> + Your ever troublesome friend, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. 4 Bryanston St., Portman + Square, November 21 [1878]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + I must thank you for all the wonderful trouble which you have taken about + the seeds of Impatiens, and on scores of other occasions. It in truth + makes me feel ashamed of myself, and I cannot help thinking: "Oh Lord, + when he sees our book he will cry out, is this all for which I have helped + so much!" In seriousness, I hope that we have made out some points, but I + fear that we have done very little for the labour which we have expended + on our work. We are here for a week for a little rest, which I needed. + </p> + <p> + If I remember right, November 30th, is the anniversary at the Royal, and I + fear Sir Joseph must be almost at the last gasp. I shall be glad when he + is no longer President. + </p> + <p> + Yours very sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [In the spring of the following year, 1879. When he was engaged in putting + his results together, he wrote somewhat despondingly to Mr. Dyer: "I am + overwhelmed with my notes, and almost too old to undertake the job which I + have in hand—i.e. movements of all kinds. Yet it is worse to be + idle." + </p> + <p> + Later on in the year, when the work was approaching completion, he wrote + to Prof. Carus (July 17, 1879), with respect to a translation:— + </p> + <p> + "Together with my son Francis, I am preparing a rather large volume on the + general movements of Plants, and I think that we have made out a good many + new points and views. + </p> + <p> + "I fear that our views will meet a good deal of opposition in Germany; but + we have been working very hard for some years at the subject. + </p> + <p> + "I shall be MUCH pleased if you think the book worth translating, and + proof-sheets shall be sent you, whenever they are ready." + </p> + <p> + In the autumn he was hard at work on the manuscript, and wrote to Dr. Gray + (October 24, 1879):— + </p> + <p> + "I have written a rather big book—more is the pity—on the + movements of plants, and I am now just beginning to go over the MS. for + the second time, which is a horrid bore." + </p> + <p> + Only the concluding part of the next letter refers to the 'Power of + Movements':] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO A. DE CANDOLLE. May 28, 1880. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am particularly obliged to you for having so kindly send me your + 'Phytographie' (A book on the methods of botanical research, more + especially of systematic work.); for if I had merely seen it advertised, I + should not have supposed that it could have concerned me. As it is, I have + read with very great interest about a quarter, but will not delay longer + thanking you. All that you say seems to me very clear and convincing, and + as in all your writings I find a large number of philosophical remarks new + to me, and no doubt shall find many more. They have recalled many a puzzle + through which I passed when monographing the Cirripedia; and your book in + those days would have been quite invaluable to me. It has pleased me to + find that I have always followed your plan of making notes on separate + pieces of paper; I keep several scores of large portfolios, arranged on + very thin shelves about two inches apart, fastened to the walls of my + study, and each shelf has its proper name or title; and I can thus put at + once every memorandum into its proper place. Your book will, I am sure, be + very useful to many young students, and I shall beg my son Francis (who + intends to devote himself to the physiology of plants) to read it + carefully. + </p> + <p> + As for myself I am taking a fortnight's rest, after sending a pile of MS. + to the printers, and it was a piece of good fortune that your book arrived + as I was getting into my carriage, for I wanted something to read whilst + away from home. My MS. relates to the movements of plants, and I think + that I have succeeded in showing that all the more important great classes + of movements are due to the modification of a kind of movement common to + all parts of all plants from their earliest youth. + </p> + <p> + Pray give my kind remembrances to your son, and with my highest respect + and best thanks, + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Sir, yours very sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—It always pleases me to exalt plants in the organic scale, and + if you will take the trouble to read my last chapter when my book (which + will be sadly too big) is published and sent to you, I hope and think that + you also will admire some of the beautiful adaptations by which seedling + plants are enabled to perform their proper functions. + </p> + <p> + [The book was published on November 6, 1880, and 1500 copies were disposed + of at Mr. Murray's sale. With regard to it he wrote to Sir J.D. Hooker + (November 23):— + </p> + <p> + "Your note has pleased me much—for I did not expect that you would + have had time to read ANY of it. Read the last chapter, and you will know + the whole result, but without the evidence. The case, however, of radicles + bending after exposure for an hour to geotropism, with their tips (or + brains) cut off is, I think, worth your reading (bottom of page 525); it + astounded me. The next most remarkable fact, as it appeared to me (page + 148), is the discrimination of the tip of the radicle between a slightly + harder and softer object affixed on opposite sides of tip. But I will + bother you no more about my book. The sensitiveness of seedlings to light + is marvellous." + </p> + <p> + To another friend, Mr. Thiselton Dyer, he wrote (November 28, 1880):— + </p> + <p> + "Very many thanks for your most kind note, but you think too highly of our + work, not but what this is very pleasant... Many of the Germans are very + contemptuous about making out the use of organs; but they may sneer the + souls out of their bodies, and I for one shall think it the most + interesting part of Natural History. Indeed you are greatly mistaken if + you doubt for one moment on the very great value of your constant and most + kind assistance to us." + </p> + <p> + The book was widely reviewed, and excited much interest among the general + public. The following letter refers to a leading article in the "Times", + November 20, 1880:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO MRS. HALIBURTON. (Mrs. Haliburton was a + daughter of my father's early friend, the late Mr. Owen, of Woodhouse.) + Down, November 22, 1880. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sarah, + </p> + <p> + You see how audaciously I begin; but I have always loved and shall ever + love this name. Your letter has done more than please me, for its kindness + has touched my heart. I often think of old days and of the delight of my + visits to Woodhouse, and of the deep debt of gratitude I owe to your + father. It was very good of you to write. I had quite forgotten my old + ambition about the Shrewsbury newspaper (Mrs. Haliburton had reminded him + of his saying as a boy that if Eddowes' newspaper ever alluded to him as + "our deserving fellow-townsman," his ambition would be amply gratified.); + but I remember the pride which I felt when I saw in a book about beetles + the impressive words "captured by C. Darwin." Captured sounded so grand + compared with caught. This seemed to me glory enough for any man! I do not + know in the least what made the "Times" glorify me (The following is the + opening sentence of the leading article:—"Of all our living men of + science none have laboured longer and to more splendid purpose than Mr. + Darwin."), for it has sometimes pitched into me ferociously. + </p> + <p> + I should very much like to see you again, but you would find a visit here + very dull, for we feel very old and have no amusement, and lead a solitary + life. But we intend in a few weeks to spend a few days in London, and then + if you have anything else to do in London, you would perhaps come and + lunch with us. (My father had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Haliburton at + his brother's house in Queen Anne Street.) + </p> + <p> + Believe me, my dear Sarah, Yours gratefully and affectionately, CHARLES + DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter was called forth by the publication of a volume + devoted to the criticism of the 'Power of Movement in Plants' by an + accomplished botanist, Dr. Julius Wiesner, Professor of Botany in the + University of Vienna:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO JULIUS WIESNER. Down, October 25th, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now finished your book ('Das Bewegungsvermogen der Pflanzen.' + Vienna, 1881.), and have understood the whole except a very few passages. + In the first place, let me thank you cordially for the manner in which you + have everywhere treated me. You have shown how a man may differ from + another in the most decided manner, and yet express his difference with + the most perfect courtesy. Not a few English and German naturalists might + learn a useful lesson from your example; for the coarse language often + used by scientific men towards each other does no good, and only degrades + science. + </p> + <p> + I have been profoundly interested by your book, and some of your + experiments are so beautiful, that I actually felt pleasure while being + vivisected. It would take up too much space to discuss all the important + topics in your book. I fear that you have quite upset the interpretation + which I have given of the effects of cutting off the tips of horizontally + extended roots, and of those laterally exposed to moisture; but I cannot + persuade myself that the horizontal position of lateral branches and roots + is due simply to their lessened power of growth. Nor when I think of my + experiments with the cotyledons of Phalaris, can I give up the belief of + the transmission of some stimulus due to light from the upper to the lower + part. At page 60 you have misunderstood my meaning, when you say that I + believe that the effects from light are transmitted to a part which is not + itself heliotropic. I never considered whether or not the short part + beneath the ground was heliotropic; but I believe that with young + seedlings the part which bends NEAR, but ABOVE the ground is heliotropic, + and I believe so from this part bending only moderately when the light is + oblique, and bending rectangularly when the light is horizontal. + Nevertheless the bending of this lower part, as I conclude from my + experiments with opaque caps, is influenced by the action of light on the + upper part. My opinion, however, on the above and many other points, + signifies very little, for I have no doubt that your book will convince + most botanists that I am wrong in all the points on which we differ. + </p> + <p> + Independently of the question of transmission, my mind is so full of facts + leading me to believe that light, gravity, etc., act not in a direct + manner on growth, but as stimuli, that I am quite unable to modify my + judgment on this head. I could not understand the passage at page 78, + until I consulted my son George, who is a mathematician. He supposes that + your objection is founded on the diffused light from the lamp illuminating + both sides of the object, and not being reduced, with increasing distance + in the same ratio as the direct light; but he doubts whether this + NECESSARY correction will account for the very little difference in the + heliotropic curvature of the plants in the successive pots. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the sensitiveness of the tips of roots to contact, I + cannot admit your view until it is proved that I am in error about bits of + card attached by liquid gum causing movement; whereas no movement was + caused if the card remained separated from the tip by a layer of the + liquid gum. The fact also of thicker and thinner bits of card attached on + opposite sides of the same root by shellac, causing movement in one + direction, has to be explained. You often speak of the tip having been + injured; but externally there was no sign of injury: and when the tip was + plainly injured, the extreme part became curved TOWARDS the injured side. + I can no more believe that the tip was injured by the bits of card, at + least when attached by gum-water, than that the glands of Drosera are + injured by a particle of thread or hair placed on it, or that the human + tongue [is so] when it feels any such object. + </p> + <p> + About the most important subject in my book, namely circumnutation, I can + only say that I feel utterly bewildered at the difference in our + conclusions; but I could not fully understand some parts which my son + Francis will be able to translate to me when he returns home. The greater + part of your book is beautifully clear. + </p> + <p> + Finally, I wish that I had enough strength and spirit to commence a fresh + set of experiments, and publish the results, with a full recantation of my + errors when convinced of them; but I am too old for such an undertaking, + nor do I suppose that I shall be able to do much, or any more, original + work. I imagine that I see one possible source of error in your beautiful + experiment of a plant rotating and exposed to a lateral light. + </p> + <p> + With high respect and with sincere thanks for the kind manner in which you + have treated me and my mistakes, I remain, my dear Sir, yours sincerely, + </p> + <p> + CHARLES DARWIN. <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XV. — MISCELLANEOUS BOTANICAL LETTERS. + </h2> + <h3> + 1873-1882. + </h3> + <p> + [The present chapter contains a series of miscellaneous letters on + botanical subjects. Some of them show my father's varied interests in + botanical science, and others give account of researches which never + reached completion.] + </p> + <p> + BLOOM ON LEAVES AND FRUIT. + </p> + <p> + [His researches into the meaning of the "bloom," or waxy coating found on + many leaves, was one of those inquiries which remained unfinished at the + time of his death. He amassed a quantity of notes on the subject, part of + which I hope to publish at no distant date. (A small instalment on the + relation between bloom and the distribution of the stomata on leaves has + appeared in the 'Journal of the Linnean Society,' 1886. Tschirsch + ("Linnaea", 1881) has published results identical with some which my + father and myself obtained, viz. that bloom diminishes transpiration. The + same fact was previously published by Garreau in 1850.) + </p> + <p> + One of his earliest letters on this subject was addressed in August, 1873, + to Sir Joseph Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "I want a little information from you, and if you do not yourself know, + please to enquire of some of the wise men of Kew. + </p> + <p> + "Why are the leaves and fruit of so many plants protected by a thin layer + of waxy matter (like the common cabbage), or with fine hair, so that when + such leaves or fruit are immersed in water they appear as if encased in + thin glass? It is really a pretty sight to put a pod of the common pea, or + a raspberry into water. I find several leaves are thus protected on the + under surface and not on the upper. + </p> + <p> + "How can water injure the leaves if indeed this is at all the case?" + </p> + <p> + On this latter point he wrote to Sir Thomas Farrer:— + </p> + <p> + "I am now become mad about drops of water injuring leaves. Please ask Mr. + Paine (Sir Thomas Farrer's gardener.) whether he believes, FROM HIS OWN + EXPERIENCE, that drops of water injure leaves or fruit in his + conservatories. It is said that the drops act as burning-glasses; if this + is true, they would not be at all injurious on cloudy days. As he is so + acute a man, I should very much like to hear his opinion. I remember when + I grew hot-house orchids I was cautioned not to wet their leaves; but I + never then thought on the subject. + </p> + <p> + "I enjoyed my visit greatly with you, and I am very sure that all England + could not afford a kinder and pleasanter host." + </p> + <p> + Some years later he took up the subject again, and wrote to Sir Joseph + Hooker (May 25, 1877):— + </p> + <p> + "I have been looking over my old notes about the "bloom" on plants, and I + think that the subject is well worth pursuing, though I am very doubtful + of any success. Are you inclined to aid me on the mere chance of success, + for without your aid I could do hardly anything?"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO ASA GRAY. Down, June 4 [1877]. + </p> + <p> + ... I am now trying to make out the use or function of "bloom," or the + waxy secretion on the leaves and fruit of plants, but am VERY doubtful + whether I shall succeed. Can you give me any light? Are such plants + commoner in warm than in colder climates? I ask because I often walk out + in heavy rain, and the leaves of very few wild dicotyledons can be here + seen with drops of water rolling off them like quick-silver. Whereas in my + flower garden, greenhouse, and hot-houses there are several. Again, are + bloo-protected plants common on your DRY western plains? Hooker THINKS + that they are common at the Cape of Good Hope. It is a puzzle to me if + they are common under very dry climates, and I find bloom very common on + the Acacias and Eucalypti of Australia. Some of the Eucalypti which do not + appear to be covered with bloom have the epidermis protected by a layer of + some substance which is dissolved in boiling alcohol. Are there any + bloo-protected leaves or fruit in the Arctic regions? If you can + illuminate me, as you so often have done, pray do so; but otherwise do not + bother yourself by answering. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, C. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO W. THISELTON DYER. Down, September 5 [1877]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Dyer, + </p> + <p> + One word to thank you. I declare had it not been for your kindness, we + should have broken down. As it is we have made out clearly that with some + plants (chiefly succulent) the bloom checks evaporation—with some + certainly prevents attacks of insects; with SOME sea-shore plants prevents + injury from salt-water, and, I believe, with a few prevents injury from + pure water resting on the leaves. This latter is as yet the most doubtful + and the most interesting point in relation to the movements of plants... + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO F. MULLER. Down, July 4 [1881]. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your kindness is unbounded, and I cannot tell you how much your last + letter (May 31) has interested me. I have piles of notes about the effect + of water resting on leaves, and their movements (as I supposed) to shake + off the drops. But I have not looked over these notes for a long time, and + had come to think that perhaps my notion was mere fancy, but I had + intended to begin experimenting as soon as I returned home; and now with + your INVALUABLE letter about the position of the leaves of various plants + during rain (I have one analogous case with Acacia from South Africa), I + shall be stimulated to work in earnest. + </p> + <p> + VARIABILITY. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter refers to a subject on which my father felt the + strongest interest:—the experimental investigation of the causes of + variability. The experiments alluded to were to some extent planned out, + and some preliminary work was begun in the direction indicated below, but + the research was ultimately abandoned.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO J.H. GILBERT. (Dr. Gilbert, F.R.S., joint + author with Sir John Bennett Lawes of a long series of valuable researches + in Scientific Agriculture.) Down, February 16, 1876. + </p> + <p> + My dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + When I met you at the Linnean Society, you were so kind as to say that you + would aid me with advice, and this will be of the utmost value to me and + my son. I will first state my object, and hope that you will excuse a long + letter. It is admitted by all naturalists that no problem is so perplexing + as what causes almost every cultivated plant to vary, and no experiments + as yet tried have thrown any light on the subject. Now for the last ten + years I have been experimenting in crossing and self-fertilising plants; + and one indirect result has surprised me much; namely, that by taking + pains to cultivate plants in pots under glass during several successive + generations, under nearly similar conditions, and by self-fertilising them + in each generation, the colour of the flowers often changes, and, what is + very remarkable, they became in some of the most variable species, such as + Mimulus, Carnation, etc., quite constant, like those of a wild species. + </p> + <p> + This fact and several others have led me to the suspicion that the cause + of variation must be in different substances absorbed from the soil by + these plants when their powers of absorption are not interfered with by + other plants with which they grow mingled in a state of nature. Therefore + my son and I wish to grow plants in pots in soil entirely, or as nearly + entirely as is possible, destitute of all matter which plants absorb, and + then to give during several successive generations to several plants of + the same species as different solutions as may be compatible with their + life and health. And now, can you advise me how to make soil approximately + free of all the substances which plants naturally absorb? I suppose white + silver sand, sold for cleaning harness, etc., is nearly pure silica, but + what am I to do for alumina? Without some alumina I imagine that it would + be impossible to keep the soil damp and fit for the growth of plants. I + presume that clay washed over and over again in water would still yield + mineral matter to the carbonic acid secreted by the roots. I should want a + good deal of soil, for it would be useless to experimentise unless we + could fill from twenty to thirty moderately sized flower-pots every year. + Can you suggest any plan? for unless you can it would, I fear, be useless + for us to commence an attempt to discover whether variability depends at + all on matter absorbed from the soil. After obtaining the requisite kind + of soil, my notion is to water one set of plants with nitrate of + potassium, another set with nitrate of sodium, and another with nitrate of + lime, giving all as much phosphate of ammonia as they seemed to support, + for I wish the plants to grow as luxuriantly as possible. The plants + watered with nitrate of Na and of Ca would require, I suppose, some K; but + perhaps they would get what is absolutely necessary from such soil as I + should be forced to employ, and from the rain-water collected in tanks. I + could use hard water from a deep well in the chalk, but then all the + plants would get lime. If the plants to which I give Nitrate of Na and of + Ca would not grow I might give them a little alum. + </p> + <p> + I am well aware how very ignorant I am, and how crude my notions are; and + if you could suggest any other solutions by which plants would be likely + to be affected it would be a very great kindness. I suppose that there are + no organic fluids which plants would absorb, and which I could procure? + </p> + <p> + I must trust to your kindness to excuse me for troubling you at such + length, and, + </p> + <p> + I remain, dear Sir, yours sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [The next letter to Professor Semper (Professor of Zoology at Wurzburg.) + bears on the same subject:] + </p> + <p> + FROM <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO K. SEMPER. Down, July 19, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Professor Semper, + </p> + <p> + I have been much pleased to receive your letter, but I did not expect you + to answer my former one... I cannot remember what I wrote to you, but I am + sure that it must have expressed the interest which I felt in reading your + book. (Published in the 'International Scientific Series,' in 1881, under + the title, 'The Natural Conditions of Existence as they affect Animal + Life.') I thought that you attributed too much weight to the DIRECT action + of the environment; but whether I said so I know not, for without being + asked I should have thought it presumptuous to have criticised your book, + nor should I now say so had I not during the last few days been struck + with Professor Hoffmann's review of his own work in the 'Botanische + Zeitung,' on the variability of plants; and it is really surprising how + little effect he produced by cultivating certain plants under unnatural + conditions, as the presence of salt, lime, zinc, etc., etc., during + SEVERAL generations. Plants, moreover, were selected which were the most + likely to vary under such conditions, judging from the existence of + closely-allied forms adapted for these conditions. No doubt I originally + attributed too little weight to the direct action of conditions, but + Hoffmann's paper has staggered me. Perhaps hundreds of generations of + exposure are necessary. It is a most perplexing subject. I wish I was not + so old, and had more strength, for I see lines of research to follow. + Hoffmann even doubts whether plants vary more under cultivation than in + their native home and under their natural conditions. If so, the + astonishing variations of almost all cultivated plants must be due to + selection and breeding from the varying individuals. This idea crossed my + mind many years ago, but I was afraid to publish it, as I thought that + people would say, "how he does exaggerate the importance of selection." + </p> + <p> + I still MUST believe that changed conditions give the impulse to + variability, but that they act IN MOST CASES in a very indirect manner. + But, as I said, it is a most perplexing problem. Pray forgive me for + writing at such length; I had no intention of doing so when I sat down to + write. + </p> + <p> + I am extremely sorry to hear, for your own sake and for that of Science, + that you are so hard worked, and that so much of your time is consumed in + official labour. + </p> + <p> + Pray believe me, dear Professor Semper, Yours sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + GALLS. + </p> + <p> + [Shortly before his death, my father began to experimentise on the + possibility of producing galls artificially. A letter to Sir J.D. Hooker + (November 3, 1880) shows the interest which he felt in the question:— + </p> + <p> + "I was delighted with Paget's Essay ('Disease in Plants,' by Sir James + Paget.—See "Gardeners' Chronicle", 1880.); I hear that he has + occasionally attended to this subject from his youth... I am very glad he + has called attention to galls: this has always seemed to me a profoundly + interesting subject; and if I had been younger would take it up." + </p> + <p> + His interest in this subject was connected with his ever-present wish to + learn something of the causes of variation. He imagined to himself + wonderful galls caused to appear on the ovaries of plants, and by these + means he thought it possible that the seed might be influenced, and thus + new varieties arise. He made a considerable number of experiments by + injecting various reagents into the tissues of leaves, and with some + slight indications of success.] + </p> + <p> + AGGREGATION. + </p> + <p> + [The following letter gives an idea of the subject of the last of his + published papers. ('Journal of the Linnean Society.' volume xix, 1882, + pages 239 and 262.) The appearances which he observed in leaves and roots + attracted him, on account of their relation to the phenomena of + aggregation which had so deeply interested him when he was at work on + Drosera:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO S.H. VINES. (Reader in Botany in the + University of Cambridge.) Down, November 1, 1881. + </p> + <p> + My dear Mr. Vines, + </p> + <p> + As I know how busy you are, it is a great shame to trouble you. But you + are so rich in chemical knowledge about plants, and I am so poor, that I + appeal to your charity as a pauper. My question is—Do you know of + any solid substance in the cells of plants which glycerine and water + dissolves? But you will understand my perplexity better if I give you the + facts: I mentioned to you that if a plant of Euphorbia peplus is gently + dug up and the roots placed for a short time in a weak solution (1 to + 10,000 of water, suffices in 24 hours) of carbonate of ammonia the + (generally) alternate longitudinal rows of cells in every rootlet, from + the root-cap up to the very top of the root (but not as far as I have yet + seen in the green stem) become filled with translucent, brownish grains of + matter. These rounded grains often cohere and even become confluent. Pure + phosphate and nitrate of ammonia produce (though more slowly) the same + effect, as does pure carbonate of soda. + </p> + <p> + Now, if slices of root under a cover-glass are irrigated with glycerine + and water, every one of the innumerable grains in the cells disappear + after some hours. What am I to think of this.?... + </p> + <p> + Forgive me for bothering you to such an extent; but I must mention that if + the roots are dipped in boiling water there is no deposition of matter, + and carbonate of ammonia afterwards produces no effect. I should state + that I now find that the granular matter is formed in the cells + immediately beneath the thin epidermis, and a few other cells near the + vascular tissue. If the granules consisted of living protoplasm (but I can + see no traces of movement in them), then I should infer that the glycerine + killed them and aggregation ceased with the diffusion of invisibly minute + particles, for I have seen an analogous phenomenon in Drosera. + </p> + <p> + If you can aid me, pray do so, and anyhow forgive me. Yours very + sincerely, CH. DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + MR. TORBITT'S EXPERIMENTS ON THE POTATO-DISEASE. + </p> + <p> + [Mr. James Torbitt, of Belfast, has been engaged for the last twelve years + in the difficult undertaking, in which he has been to a large extent + successful, of raising fungus-proof varieties of the potato. My father + felt great interest in Mr. Torbitt's work, and corresponded with him from + 1876 onwards. The following letter, giving a clear account of Mr. + Torbitt's method and of my father's opinion of the probability of its + success, was written with the idea that Government aid for the work might + possibly be obtainable:] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br />CHARLES DARWIN TO T.H. FARRER. Down, March 2, 1878. + </p> + <p> + My dear Farrer, + </p> + <p> + Mr. Torbitt's plan of overcoming the potato-disease seems to me by far the + best which has ever been suggested. It consists, as you know from his + printed letter, of rearing a vast number of seedlings from + cross-fertilised parents, exposing them to infection, ruthlessly + destroying all that suffer, saving those which resist best, and repeating + the process in successive seminal generations. My belief in the + probability of good results from this process rests on the fact of all + characters whatever occasionally varying. It is known, for instance, that + certain species and varieties of the vine resist phylloxera better than + others. Andrew Knight found in one variety or species of the apple which + was not in the least attacked by coccus, and another variety has been + observed in South Australia. Certain varieties of the peach resist mildew, + and several other such cases could be given. Therefore there is no great + improbability in a new variety of potato arising which would resist the + fungus completely, or at least much better than any existing variety. With + respect to the cross-fertilisation of two distinct seedling plants, it has + been ascertained that the offspring thus raised inherit much more vigorous + constitutions and generally are more prolific than seedlings from + self-fertilised parents. It is also probable that cross-fertilisation + would be especially valuable in the case of the potato, as there is reason + to believe that the flowers are seldom crossed by our native insects; and + some varieties are absolutely sterile unless fertilised with pollen from a + distinct variety. There is some evidence that the good effects from a + cross are transmitted for several generations; it would not, therefore be + necessary to cross-fertilise the seedlings in each generation, though this + would be desirable, as it is almost certain that a greater number of seeds + would thus be obtained. It should be remembered that a cross between + plants raised from the tubers of the same plant, though growing on + distinct roots, does no more good than a cross between flowers on the same + individual. Considering the whole subject, it appears to me that it would + be a national misfortune if the cros-fertilised seeds in Mr. Torbitt's + possession produced by parents which have already shown some power of + resisting the disease, are not utilised by the Government, or some public + body, and the process of selection continued during several more + generations. + </p> + <p> + Should the Agricultural Society undertake the work, Mr. Torbitt's + knowledge gained by experience would be especially valuable; and an + outline of the plan is given in his printed letter. It would be necessary + that all the tubers produced by each plant should be collected separately, + and carefully examined in each succeeding generation. + </p> + <p> + It would be advisable that some kind of potato eminently liable to the + disease should be planted in considerable numbers near the seedlings so as + to infect them. + </p> + <p> + Altogether the trial would be one requiring much care and extreme + patience, as I know from experience with analogous work, and it may be + feared that it would be difficult to find any one who would pursue the + experiment with sufficient energy. It seems, therefore, to me highly + desirable that Mr. Torbitt should be aided with some small grant so as to + continue the work himself. + </p> + <p> + Judging from his reports, his efforts have already been crowned in so + short a time with more success than could have been anticipated; and I + think you will agree with me, that any one who raises a fungus-proof + potato will be a public benefactor of no common kind. + </p> + <p> + My dear Farrer, yours sincerely, CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + [After further consultation with Sir Thomas Farrer and with Mr. Caird, my + father became convinced that it was hopeless to attempt to obtain + Government aid. He wrote to Mr. Torbitt to this effect, adding, "it would + be less trouble to get up a subscription from a few rich leading + agriculturists than from Government. This plan I think you cannot object + to, as you have asked nothing, and will have nothing whatever to do with + the subscription. In fact, the affair is, in my opinion, a compliment to + you." The idea here broached was carried out, and Mr. Torbitt was enabled + to continue his work by the aid of a sum to which Sir T. Farrer, Mr. + Caird, my father, and a few friends, subscribed. + </p> + <p> + My father's sympathy and encouragement were highly valued by Mr. Torbitt, + who tells me that without them he should long ago have given up his + attempt. A few extracts will illustrate my father's fellow feeling with + Mr. Torbitt's energy and perseverance:— + </p> + <p> + "I admire your indomitable spirit. If any one ever deserved success, you + do so, and I keep to my original opinion that you have a very good chance + of raising a fungus-proof variety of the potato. + </p> + <p> + "A pioneer in a new undertaking is sure to meet with many disappointments, + so I hope that you will keep up your courage, though we have done so very + little for you." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Torbitt tells me that he still (1887) succeeds in raising varieties + possessing well-marked powers of resisting disease; but this immunity is + not permanent, and, after some years, the varieties become liable to the + attacks of the fungus.] + </p> + <p> + THE KEW INDEX OF PLANT-NAMES, OR 'NOMENCLATOR DARWINIANUS.' + </p> + <p> + [Some account of my father's connection with the Index of Plant-names now + (1887) in course of preparation at Kew will be found in Mr. B. Daydon + Jackson's paper in the 'Journal of Botany,' 1887, page 151. Mr. Jackson + quotes the following statement by Sir J.D. Hooker:— + </p> + <p> + "Shortly before his death, Mr. Charles Darwin informed Sir Joseph Hooker + that it was his intention to devote a considerable sum of money annually + for some years in aid or furtherance of some work or works of practical + utility to biological science, and to make provisions in his will in the + event of these not being completed during his lifetime. + </p> + <p> + "Amongst other objects connected with botanical science, Mr. Darwin + regarded with especial interest the importance of a complete index to the + names and authors of the genera and species of plants known to botanists, + together with their native countries. Steudel's 'Nomenclator' is the only + existing work of this nature, and although now nearly half a century old, + Mr. Darwin had found it of great aid in his own researches. It has been + indispensable to every botanical institution, whether as a list of all + known flowering plants, as an indication of their authors, or as a digest + of botanical geography." + </p> + <p> + Since 1840, when the 'Nomenclator' was published, the number of described + plants may be said to have doubled, so that the 'Nomenclator' is now + seriously below the requirements of botanical work. To remedy this want, + the 'Nomenclator' has been from time to time posted up in an interleaved + copy in the Herbarium at Kew, by the help of "funds supplied by private + liberality." (Kew Gardens Report, 1881, page 62.) + </p> + <p> + My father, like other botanists, had as Sir Joseph Hooker points out, + experienced the value of Steudel's work. He obtained plants from all sorts + of sources, which were often incorrectly named, and he felt the necessity + of adhering to the accepted nomenclature, so that he might convey to other + workers precise indications as to the plants which he had studied. It was + also frequently a matter of importance to him to know the native country + of his experimental plants. Thus it was natural that he should recognize + the desirability of completing and publishing the interleaved volume at + Kew. The wish to help in this object was heightened by the admiration he + felt for the results for which the world has to thank the Royal Gardens at + Kew, and by his gratitude for the invaluable aid which for so many years + he received from its Director and his staff. He expressly stated that it + was his wish "to aid in some way the scientific work carried on at the + Royal Gardens" (Kew Gardens Report, 1881, page 62.)—which induced + him to offer to supply funds for the completion of the Kew 'Nomenclator.' + </p> + <p> + The following passage, for which I am indebted to Professor Judd, is of + much interest, as illustrating the motives that actuated my father in this + matter. Professor Judd writes:— + </p> + <p> + "On the occasion of my last visit to him, he told me that his income + having recently greatly increased, while his wants remained the same, he + was most anxious to devote what he could spare to the advancement of + Geology or Biology. He dwelt in the most touching manner on the fact that + he owed so much happiness and fame to the natural-history sciences, which + had been the solace of what might have been a painful existence;—and + he begged me, if I knew of any research which could be aided by a grant of + a few hundreds of pounds, to let him know, as it would be a delight to him + to feel that he was helping in promoting the progress of science. He + informed me at the same time that he was making the same suggestion to Sir + Joseph Hooker and Professor Huxley with respect to Botany and Zoology + respectively. I was much impressed by the earnestness, and, indeed, deep + emotion, with which he spoke of his indebtedness to Science, and his + desire to promote its interests." + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph Hooker was asked by my father "to take into consideration, with + the aid of the botanical staff at Kew and the late Mr. Bentham, the extent + and scope of the proposed work, and to suggest the best means of having it + executed. In doing this, Sir Joseph had further the advantage of the great + knowledge and experience of Professor Asa Gray, of Cambridge, U.S.A., and + of Mr. John Ball, F.R.S." ('Journal of Botany,' loc. cit.) + </p> + <p> + The plan of the proposed work having been carefully considered, Sir Joseph + Hooker was able to confide its elaboration in detail to Mr. B. Daydon + Jackson, Secretary of the Linnean Society, whose extensive knowledge of + botanical literature qualifies him for the task. My father's original idea + of producing a modern edition of Steudel's 'Nomenclator' has been + practically abandoned, the aim now kept in view is rather to construct a + list of genera and species (with references) founded on Bentham and + Hooker's 'Genera Plantarum.' The colossal nature of the work in progress + at Kew may be estimated by the fact that the manuscript of the 'Index' is + at the present time (1887) believed to weigh more than a ton. Under Sir + Joseph Hooker's supervision the work goes steadily forward, being carried + out with admirable zeal by Mr. Jackson, who devotes himself unsparingly to + the enterprise, in which, too, he has the advantage of the active interest + in the work felt by Professor Oliver and Mr. Thiselton Dyer. + </p> + <p> + The Kew 'Index,' which will, in all probability, be ready to go to press + in four or five years, will be a fitting memorial of my father: and his + share in its completion illustrates a part of his character—his + ready sympathy with work outside his own lines of investigation—and + his respect for minute and patient labour in all branches of science.] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2.XVI. — CONCLUSION. + </h2> + <p> + Some idea of the general course of my father's health may have been + gathered from the letters given in the preceding pages. The subject of + health appears more prominently than is often necessary in a Biography, + because it was, unfortunately, so real an element in determining the + outward form of his life. + </p> + <p> + During the last ten years of his life the condition of his health was a + cause of satisfaction and hope to his family. His condition showed signs + of amendment in several particulars. He suffered less distress and + discomfort, and was able to work more steadily. Something has been already + said of Dr. Bence Jones's treatment, from which my father certainly + derived benefit. In later years he became a patient of Sir Andrew Clark, + under whose care he improved greatly in general health. It was not only + for his generously rendered service that my father felt a debt of + gratitude towards Sir Andrew Clark. He owed to his cheering personal + influence an ofte-repeated encouragement, which laterally added something + real to his happiness, and he found sincere pleasure in Sir Andrew's + friendship and kindness towards himself and his children. + </p> + <p> + Scattered through the past pages are one or two references to pain or + uneasiness felt in the region of the heart. How far these indicate that + the heart was affected early in life, I cannot pretend to say; in any case + it is certain that he had no serious or permanent trouble of this nature + until shortly before his death. In spite of the general improvement in his + health, which has been above alluded to, there was a certain loss of + physical vigour occasionally apparent during the last few years of his + life. This is illustrated by a sentence in a letter to his old friend Sir + James Sulivan, written on January 10, 1879: "My scientific work tires me + more than it used to do, but I have nothing else to do, and whether one is + worn out a year or two sooner or later signifies but little." + </p> + <p> + A similar feeling is shown in a letter to Sir J.D. Hooker of June 15, + 1881. My father was staying at Patterdale, and wrote: "I am rather + despondent about myself... I have not the heart or strength to begin any + investigation lasting years, which is the only thing which I enjoy, and I + have no little jobs which I can do." + </p> + <p> + In July, 1881, he wrote to Mr. Wallace, "We have just returned home after + spending five weeks on Ullswater; the scenery is quite charming, but I + cannot walk, and everything tires me, even seeing scenery... What I shall + do with my few remaining years of life I can hardly tell. I have + everything to make me happy and contented, but life has become very + wearisome to me." He was, however, able to do a good deal of work, and + that of a trying sort (On the action of carbonate of ammonia on roots and + leaves.), during the autumn of 1881, but towards the end of the year he + was clearly in need of rest; and during the winter was in a lower + condition than was usual with him. + </p> + <p> + On December 13 he went for a week to his daughter's house in Bryanston + Street. During his stay in London he went to call on Mr. Romanes, and was + seized when on the door-step with an attack apparently of the same kind as + those which afterwards became so frequent. The rest of the incident, which + I give in Mr. Romanes' words, is interesting too from a different point of + view, as giving one more illustration of my father's scrupulous + consideration for others:— + </p> + <p> + "I happened to be out, but my butler, observing that Mr. Darwin was ill, + asked him to come in, he said he would prefer going home, and although the + butler urged him to wait at least until a cab could be fetched, he said he + would rather not give so much trouble. For the same reason he refused to + allow the butler to accompany him. Accordingly he watched him walking with + difficulty towards the direction in which cabs were to be met with, and + saw that, when he had got about three hundred yards from the house, he + staggered and caught hold of the park-railings as if to prevent himself + from falling. The butler therefore hastened to his assistance, but after a + few seconds saw him turn round with the evident purpose of retracing his + steps to my house. However, after he had returned part of the way he seems + to have felt better, for he again changed his mind, and proceeded to find + a cab." + </p> + <p> + During the last week of February and in the beginning of March, attacks of + pain in the region of the heart, with irregularity of the pulse, became + frequent, coming on indeed nearly every afternoon. A seizure of this sort + occurred about March 7, when he was walking alone at a short distance from + the house; he got home with difficulty, and this was the last time that he + was able to reach his favourite 'Sand-walk.' Shortly after this, his + illness became obviously more serious and alarming, and he was seen by Sir + Andrew Clark, whose treatment was continued by Dr. Norman Moore, of St. + Bartholomew's Hospital, and Mr. Alfrey, of St. Mary Cray. He suffered from + distressing sensations of exhaustion and faintness, and seemed to + recognise with deep depression the fact that his working days were over. + He gradually recovered from this condition, and became more cheerful and + hopeful, as is shown in the following letter to Mr. Huxley, who was + anxious that my father should have closer medical supervision than the + existing arrangements allowed: + </p> + <p> + Down, March 27, 1882. + </p> + <p> + My dear Huxley, + </p> + <p> + Your most kind letter has been a real cordial to me. I have felt better + to-day than for three weeks, and have felt as yet no pain. Your plan seems + an excellent one, and I will probably act upon it, unless I get very much + better. Dr. Clark's kindness is unbounded to me, but he is too busy to + come here. Once again, accept my cordial thanks, my dear old friend. I + wish to God there were more automata (The allusion is to Mr. Huxley's + address 'On the Hypothesis that Animals are Automata, and its History,' + given at the Belfast meeting of the British Association in 1874, and + republished in 'Science and Culture.') in the world like you. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, CH. DARWIN." + </p> + <p> + The allusion to Sir Andrew Clark requires a word of explanation. Sir + Andrew Clark himself was ever ready to devote himself to my father, who, + however, could not endure the thought of sending for him, knowing how + severely his great practice taxed his strength. + </p> + <p> + No especial change occurred during the beginning of April, but on Saturday + 15th he was seized with giddiness while sitting at dinner in the evening, + and fainted in an attempt to reach his sofa. On the 17th he was again + better, and in my temporary absence recorded for me the progress of an + experiment in which I was engaged. During the night of April 18th, about a + quarter to twelve, he had a severe attack and passed into a faint, from + which he was brought back to consciousness with great difficulty. He + seemed to recognise the approach of death, and said, "I am not the least + afraid to die." All the next morning he suffered from terrible nausea and + faintness, and hardly rallied before the end came. + </p> + <p> + He died at about four o'clock on Wednesday, April 19th, 1882, in the + seventy-fourth year of his age. + </p> + <p> + I close the record of my father's life with a few words of retrospect + added to the manuscript of his 'Autobiography' in 1879:— + </p> + <p> + "As for myself, I believe that I have acted rightly in steadily following, + and devoting my life to Science. I feel no remorse from having committed + any great sin, but have often and often regretted that I have not done + more direct good to my fellow creatures." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE1" id="link2H_APPE1"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX I. + </h2> + <h3> + THE FUNERAL IN WESTMINSTER ABBEY. + </h3> + <p> + On the Friday succeeding my father's death, the following letter, signed + by twenty members of Parliament, was addressed to Dr. Bradley, Dean of + Westminster:— + </p> + <p> + HOUSE OF COMMONS, April 21, 1882. + </p> + <p> + Very Rev. Sir, + </p> + <p> + We hope you will not think we are taking a liberty if we venture to + suggest that it would be acceptable to a very large number of our + fellow-countrymen of all classes and opinions that our illustrious + countryman, Mr. Darwin, should be buried in Westminster Abbey. + </p> + <p> + We remain, your obedient servants, + </p> + <p> + JOHN LUBBOCK, NEVIL STOREY MASKELYNE, A.J. MUNDELLA, G.O. TREVELYAN, LYON + PLAYFAIR, CHARLES W. DILKE, DAVID WEDDERBURN, ARTHUR RUSSEL, HORACE DAVEY, + BENJAMIN ARMITAGE, RICHARD B. MARTIN, FRANCIS W. BUXTON, E.L. STANLEY, + HENRY BROADHURST, JOHN BARRAN, F.J. CHEETHAM, H.S. HOLLAND, H. + CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN, CHARLES BRUCE, RICHARD FORT. + </p> + <p> + The Dean was abroad at the time, and telegraphed his cordial acquiescence. + </p> + <p> + The family had desired that my father should be buried at Down: with + regard to their wishes, Sir John Lubbock wrote:— + </p> + <p> + HOUSE OF COMMONS, April 25, 1882. + </p> + <p> + My dear Darwin, + </p> + <p> + I quite sympathise with your feeling, and personally I should greatly have + preferred that your father should have rested in Down amongst us all. It + is, I am sure, quite understood that the initiative was not taken by you. + Still, from a national point of view, it is clearly right that he should + be buried in the Abbey. I esteem it a great privilege to be allowed to + accompany my dear master to the grave. + </p> + <p> + Believe me, yours most sincerely, + </p> + <p> + JOHN LUBBOCK. W.E. DARWIN, ESQ. + </p> + <p> + The family gave up their first-formed plans, and the funeral took place in + Westminster Abbey on April 26th. The pall-bearers were:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + SIR JOHN LUBBOCK, + MR. HUXLEY, + MR. JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL (American Minister), + MR. A.R. WALLACE, + THE DUKE OF DEVONSHIRE, + CANON FARRAR, + SIR J.D. HOOKER, + MR. WM. SPOTTISWOODE (President of the Royal Society), + THE EARL OF DERBY, + THE DUKE OF ARGYLL. +</pre> + <p> + The funeral was attended by the representatives of France, Germany, Italy, + Spain, Russia, and by those of the Universities, and learned Societies, as + well as by large numbers of personal friends and distinguished men. + </p> + <p> + The grave is in the North aisle of the Nave close to the angle of the + choir-screen, and a few feet from the grave of Sir Isaac Newton. The stone + bears the inscription— + </p> + <p> + CHARLES ROBERT DARWIN. Born 12 February, 1809. Died 19 April, 1882. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE2" id="link2H_APPE2"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX II. + </h2> + <h3> + I.—LIST OF WORKS BY CHARLES DARWIN. + </h3> + <p> + Narrative of the Surveying Voyages of Her Majesty's Ships 'Adventure' and + 'Beagle' between the years 1826 and 1836, describing their examination of + the Southern shores of South America, and the 'Beagle's' circumnavigation + of the globe. Volume iii. Journal and Remarks, 1832-1836. By Charles + Darwin. 8vo. London, 1839. + </p> + <p> + Journal of Researches into the Natural History and Geology of the + countries visited during the Voyage of H.M.S. 'Beagle' round the world, + under the command of Captain Fitz-Roy, R.N. 2nd edition, corrected, with + additions. 8vo. London, 1845. (Colonial and Home Library.) + </p> + <p> + A Naturalist's Voyage. Journal of Researches, etc., 8vo. London, 1860. + [Contains a postscript dated February 1, 1860.] + </p> + <p> + Zoology of the Voyage of H.M.S. 'Beagle.' Edited and superintended by + Charles Darwin. Part I. Fossil Mammalia, by Richard Owen. With a + Geological Introduction, by Charles Darwin. 4to. London, 1840. + </p> + <p> + —Part II. Mammalia, by George R. Waterhouse. With a notice of their + habits and ranges, by Charles Darwin. 4to. London, 1839. + </p> + <p> + —Part III. Birds, by John Gould. An "Advertisement" (2 pages) states + that in consequence of Mr. Gould's having left England for Australia, many + descriptions were supplied by Mr. G.R. Gray of the British Museum. 4to. + London, 1841. + </p> + <p> + —Part IV. Fish, by Rev. Leonard Jenyns. 4to. London, 1842. + </p> + <p> + —Part V. Reptiles, by Thomas Bell. 4to. London, 1843. + </p> + <p> + The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs. Being the First Part of the + Geology of the Voyage of the 'Beagle.' 8vo. London, 1842. + </p> + <p> + The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs. 2nd edition. 8vo. London, + 1874. + </p> + <p> + Geological Observations on the Volcanic Islands, visited during the Voyage + of H.M.S. 'Beagle.' Being the Second Part of the Geology of the Voyage of + the 'Beagle.' 8vo. London, 1844. + </p> + <p> + Geological Observations on South America. Being the Third Part of the + Geology of the Voyage of the 'Beagle.' 8vo. London, 1846. + </p> + <p> + Geological Observations on the Volcanic Islands and parts of South America + visited during the Voyage of H.M.S. 'Beagle.' 2nd edition. 8vo. London, + 1876. + </p> + <p> + A Monograph of the Fossil Lepadidae; or, Pedunculated Cirripedes of Great + Britain. 4to. London, 1851. (Palaeontographical Society.) + </p> + <p> + A Monograph of the Sub-class Cirripedia, with Figures of all the Species. + The Lepadidae; or, Pedunculated Cirripedes. 8vo. London, 1851. (Ray + Society.) + </p> + <p> + —The Balanidae (or Sessile Cirripedes); the Verrucidae, etc. 8vo. + London, 1854. (Ray Society.) + </p> + <p> + A Monograph of the Fossil Balanidae and Verrucidae of Great Britain. 4to. + London, 1854. (Palaeontographical Society.) + </p> + <p> + On the Origin of Species by means of Natural Selection, or the + Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life. 8vo. London, + 1859. (Dated October 1st, 1859, published November 24, 1859.) + </p> + <p> + —Fifth thousand. 8vo. London, 1860. + </p> + <p> + —Third edition, with additions and corrections. (Seventh thousand.) + 8vo. London, 1861. (Dated March, 1861.) + </p> + <p> + —Fourth edition with additions and corrections. (Eighth thousand.) + 8vo. London, 1866. (Dated June, 1866.) + </p> + <p> + —Fifth edition, with additions and corrections. (Tenth thousand.) + 8vo. London, 1869. (Dated May, 1869.) + </p> + <p> + —Sixth edition, with additions and corrections to 1872. + (Twenty-fourth thousand.) 8vo. London, 1882. (Dated January, 1872.) + </p> + <p> + On the various contrivances by which Orchids are fertilised by Insects. + 8vo. London, 1862. + </p> + <p> + —Second edition. 8vo. London, 1877. [In the second edition the word + "On" is omitted from the title.] + </p> + <p> + The Movements and Habits of Climbing Plants. Second edition. 8vo. London, + 1875. [First appeared in the ninth volume of the 'Journal of the Linnean + Society.'] + </p> + <p> + The Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication. 2 volumes. 8vo. + London, 1868. + </p> + <p> + —Second edition, revised. 2 volumes. 8vo. London, 1875. + </p> + <p> + The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex. 2 volumes. 8vo. + London, 1871. + </p> + <p> + —Second edition. 8vo. London, 1874. (In 1 volume.) + </p> + <p> + The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. 8vo. London, 1872. + </p> + <p> + Insectivorous Plants. 8vo. London, 1875. + </p> + <p> + The Effects of Cross and Self Fertilisation in the Vegetable Kingdom. 8vo. + London, 1876. + </p> + <p> + —Second edition. 8vo. London, 1878. + </p> + <p> + The different Forms of Flowers on Plants of the same Species. 8vo. London, + 1877. + </p> + <p> + —Second edition. 8vo. London, 1880. + </p> + <p> + The Power of Movement in Plants. By Charles Darwin, assisted by Francis + Darwin. 8vo. London, 1880. + </p> + <p> + The Formation of Vegetable Mould, through the Action of Worms, with + Observations on their Habits. 8vo. London, 1881. + </p> + <p> + II.—LIST OF BOOKS CONTAINING CONTRIBUTIONS BY CHARLES DARWIN. + </p> + <p> + A Manual of scientific enquiry; prepared for the use of Her Majesty's + Navy: and adapted for travellers in general. Edited by Sir John F.W. + Herschel, Bart. 8vo. London, 1849. (Section VI. Geology. By Charles + Darwin.) + </p> + <p> + Memoir of the Rev. John Stevens Henslow. By the Rev. Leonard Jenyns. 8vo. + London, 1862. [In Chapter III., Recollections by Charles Darwin.] + </p> + <p> + A letter (1876) on the 'Drift' near Southampton published in Prof. J. + Geikie's 'Prehistoric Europe.' + </p> + <p> + Flowers and their unbidden guests. By A. Kerner. With a Prefatory Letter + by Charles Darwin. The translation revised and edited by W. Ogle. 8vo. + London, 1878. + </p> + <p> + Erasmus Darwin. By Ernst Krause. Translated from the German by W.S. + Dallas. With a preliminary notice by Charles Darwin. 8vo. London, 1879. + </p> + <p> + Studies in the Theory of Descent. By August Weismann. Translated and + edited by Raphael Meldola. With a Prefatory Notice by Charles Darwin. 8vo. + London, 1880—. + </p> + <p> + The Fertilisation of Flowers. By Hermann Muller. Translated and edited by + D'Arcy W. Thompson. With a Preface by Charles Darwin. 8vo. London, 1883. + </p> + <p> + Mental Evolution in Animals. By G.J. Romanes. With a posthumous essay on + instinct by Charles Darwin, 1883. [Also published in the Journal of the + Linnean Society.] + </p> + <p> + Some Notes on a curious habit of male humble bees were sent to Prof. + Hermann Muller, of Lippstadt, who had permission from Mr. Darwin to make + what use he pleased of them. After Muller's death the Notes were given by + his son to Dr. E. Krause, who published them under the title, "Ueber die + Wege der Hummel-Mannchen" in his book, 'Gesammelte kleinere Schriften von + Charles Darwin.' (1886). + </p> + <p> + III.—LIST OF SCIENTIFIC PAPERS, INCLUDING A SELECTION OF LETTERS AND + SHORT COMMUNICATIONS TO SCIENTIFIC JOURNALS. + </p> + <p> + Letters to Professor Henslow, read by him at the meeting of the Cambridge + Philosophical Society, held November 16, 1835. 31 pages. 8vo. Privately + printed for distribution among the members of the Society. + </p> + <p> + Geological Notes made during a survey of the East and West Coasts of South + America in the years 1832, 1833, 1834, and 1835; with an account of a + transverse section of the Cordilleras of the Andes between Valparaiso and + Mendoza. [Read November 18, 1835.] Geology Society Proc. ii. 1838, pages + 210-212. [This Paper is incorrectly described in Geology Society Proc. + ii., page 210 as follows:—"Geological notes, etc., by F. Darwin, + Esq., of St. John's College, Cambridge: communicated by Prof. Sedgwick." + It is Indexed under C. Darwin.] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE" id="link2H_NOTE"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Notes upon the Rhea Americana. Zoology Society Proc., Part v. 1837. + </h2> + <p> + pages 35-36. + </p> + <p> + Observations of proofs of recent elevation on the coast of Chili, made + during the survey of H.M.S. "Beagle," commanded by Captain Fitz-Roy. + [1837.] Geological Society Proc. ii.1838, pages 446-449. + </p> + <p> + A sketch of the deposits containing extinct Mammalia in the neighbourhood + of the Plata. [1837.] Geological Society Proc. ii. 1838, pages 542-544. + </p> + <p> + On certain areas of elevation and subsidence in the Pacific and Indian + oceans, as deduced from the study of coral formations. [1837.] Geological + Society Proc. ii. 1838, pages 552-554. + </p> + <p> + On the Formation of Mould. [Read November 1, 1837.] Geological Society + Proc. ii. 1838, pages 574-576; Geological Society Transactions v. 1840, + pages 505-510. + </p> + <p> + On the Connexion of certain Volcanic Phenomena and on the formation of + mountain-chains and the effects of continental elevations. [Read March 7, + 1838.] Geological Society Proc. ii. 1838, pages 654-660; Geological + Society Transactions v. 1840, pages 601-632. [In the Society's + Transactions the wording of the title is slightly different.] + </p> + <p> + Origin of saliferous deposits. Salt Lakes of Patagonia and La Plata. + Geological Society Journal ii. (Part ii.), 1838, pages 127-128. + </p> + <p> + Note on a Rock seen on an Iceberg in 16 deg South Latitude. Geographical + Society Journal ix. 1839, pages 528-529. + </p> + <p> + Observations on the Parallel Roads of Glen Roy, and of other parts of + Lochaber in Scotland, with an attempt to prove that they are of marine + origin. Phil. Trans. 1839, pages 39-82. + </p> + <p> + On a remarkable Bar of Sandstone off Pernambuco, on the Coast of Brazil. + Phil. Mag. xix. 1841, pages 257-260. + </p> + <p> + On the Distribution of the Erratic Boulders and on the Contemporaneous + Unstratified Deposits of South America. [1841.] Geological Society Proc. + iii. 1842, pages 425-430; Geological Society Transactions vi. 1842, pages + 415-432. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE2" id="link2H_NOTE2"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Notes on the Effects produced by the Ancient Glaciers of + </h2> + <p> + Caernarvonshire, and on the Boulders transported by Floating Ice. London + Philosophical Magazine volume xxi. page 180. 1842. + </p> + <p> + Remarks on the preceding paper, in a Letter from Charles Darwin, Esq., to + Mr. Maclaren. Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal xxxiv. 1843, pages 47- + 50. [The "preceding" paper is: "On Coral Islands and Reefs as described by + Mr. Darwin. By Charles Maclaren, Esq., F.R.S.E."] + </p> + <p> + Observations on the Structure and Propagation of the genus Sagitta. Annals + and Magazine of Natural History xiii. 1844, pages 1-6. + </p> + <p> + Brief descriptions of several Terrestrial Planariae, and of some + remarkable Marine Species, with an Account of their Habits. Annals and + Magazine of Natural History xiv. 1844, pages 241-251. + </p> + <p> + An account of the Fine Dust which often falls on Vessels in the Atlantic + Ocean. Geological Society Journal ii. 1846, pages 26-30. + </p> + <p> + On the Geology of the Falkland Islands. Geological Society Journal ii. + 1846, pages 267-274. + </p> + <p> + A review of Waterhouse's 'Natural History of the Mammalia.' [Not signed.] + Annals and Magazine of Natural History 1847. Volume xix. page 53. + </p> + <p> + On the Transportal of Erratic Boulders from a lower to a higher level. + Geological Society Journal iv. 1848, pages 315-323. + </p> + <p> + On British fossil Lepadidae. Geological Society Journal vi. 1850, pages + 439-440. [The G.S.J. says "This paper was withdrawn by the author with the + permission of the Council."] + </p> + <p> + Analogy of the Structure of some Volcanic Rocks with that of Glaciers. + Edinburgh Royal Society Proc. ii. 1851, pages 17-18. + </p> + <p> + On the power of Icebergs to make rectilinear, uniformly-directed Grooves + across a Submarine Undulatory Surface. Philosophical Magazine x. 1855, + pages 96-98. + </p> + <p> + Vitality of Seeds. "Gardeners' Chronicle", November 17, 1855, page 758. + </p> + <p> + On the action of Sea-water on the Germination of Seeds. [1856.] Linnean + Society Journal i. 1857 ("Botany"), pages 130-140. + </p> + <p> + On the Agency of Bees in the Fertilisation of Papilionaceous Flowers. + "Gardeners' Chronicle", page 725, 1857. + </p> + <p> + On the Tendency of Species to form Varieties; and on the Perpetuation of + Varieties and Species by Natural Means of Selection. By Charles Darwin, + Esq., F.R.S., F.L.S., and F.G.S., and Alfred Wallace, Esq. [Read July 1st, + 1858.] Journal of the Linnean Society 1859, volume iii. ("Zoology"), page + 45. + </p> + <p> + Special titles of Charles Darwin's contributions to the foregoing:— + </p> + <p> + i. Extract from an unpublished work on Species by Charles Darwin Esq., + consisting of a portion of a chapter entitled, "On the Variation of + Organic Beings in a State of Nature; on the Natural Means of Selection; on + the Comparison of Domestic Races and true Species." + </p> + <p> + ii. Abstract of a Letter from C. Darwin, Esq., to Professor Asa Gray, of + Boston U.S., dated September 5, 1857. + </p> + <p> + On the Agency of Bees in the Fertilisation of Papilionaceous Flowers, and + on the Crossing of Kidney Beans. "Gardeners' Chronicle", 1858, page 828 + and Annals of Natural History 3rd series ii. 1858, pages 459-465. + </p> + <p> + Do the Tineina or other small Moths suck Flowers, and if so what Flowers? + "Entomological Weekly Intelligencer" volume viii. 1860, page 103. + </p> + <p> + Note on the achenia of Pumilio Argyrolepis. "Gardeners' Chronicle", + January 5, 1861, page 4. + </p> + <p> + Fertilisation of Vincas. "Gardeners' Chronicle", pages 552, 831, 832. + 1861. + </p> + <p> + On the Two Forms, or Dimorphic Condition, in the species of Primula, and + on their remarkable Sexual Relations. Linnean Society Journal vi. 1862 + ("Botany"), pages 77-96. + </p> + <p> + On the Three remarkable Sexual Forms of Catasetum tridentatum, an Orchid + in the possession of the Linnean Society. Linnean Society Journal vi. 1862 + ("Botany"), pages 151-157. + </p> + <p> + Yellow Rain. "Gardeners' Chronicle", July 18, 1863, page 675. + </p> + <p> + On the thickness of the Pampean formation near Buenos Ayres. Geological + Society Journal xix. 1863, pages 68-71. + </p> + <p> + On the so-called "Auditory-sac" of Cirripedes. Natural History Review, + 1863, pages 115-116. + </p> + <p> + A review of Mr. Bates' paper on 'Mimetic Butterflies.' Natural History + Review, 1863, page 221-. [Not signed.] + </p> + <p> + On the existence of two forms, and on their reciprocal sexual relation, in + several species of the genus Linum. Linnean Society Journal vii. 1864 + ("Botany"), pages 69-83. + </p> + <p> + On the Sexual Relations of the Three Forms of Lythrum salicaria. [1864.] + Linnean Society Journal viii. 1865 ("Botany"), pages 169-196. + </p> + <p> + On the Movement and Habits of Climbing Plants. [1865.] Linnean Society + Journal ix. 1867 ("Botany"), pages 1-118. + </p> + <p> + Note on the Common Broom (Cytisus scoparius). [1866.] Linnean Society + Journal ix. 1867 ("Botany"), page 358. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE3" id="link2H_NOTE3"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Notes on the Fertilization of Orchids. Annals and Magazine of Natural + </h2> + <p> + History, 4th series, iv. 1869, pages 141-159. + </p> + <p> + On the Character and Hybrid-like Nature of the Offspring from the + Illegitimate Unions of Dimorphic and Trimorphic Plants. [1868.] Linnean + Society Journal x. 1869 ("Botany"), pages 393-437. + </p> + <p> + On the Specific Difference between Primula veris, British Fl. (var. + officinalis, of Linn.), P. vulgaris, British Fl. (var. acaulis, Linn.), + and P. elatior, Jacq.; and on the Hybrid Nature of the common Oxlip. With + Supplementary Remarks on naturally produced Hybrids in the genus + Verbascum. [1868.] Linnean Society Journal x. 1869 ("Botany"), pages + 437-454. + </p> + <p> + Note on the Habits of the Pampas Woodpecker (Colaptes campestris). + Zoological Society Proceedings November 1, 1870, pages 705-706. + </p> + <p> + Fertilisation of Leschenaultia. "Gardeners' Chronicle", page 1166, 1871. + </p> + <p> + The Fertilisation of Winter-flowering Plants. 'Nature,' November 18, 1869, + volume i. page 85. + </p> + <p> + Pangenesis. 'Nature,' April 27, 1871, volume iii. page 502. + </p> + <p> + A new view of Darwinism. 'Nature,' July 6, 1871, volume iv. page 180. + </p> + <p> + Bree on Darwinism. 'Nature,' August 8, 1872, volume vi. page 279. + </p> + <p> + Inherited Instinct. 'Nature,' February 13, 1873, volume vii. page 281. + </p> + <p> + Perception in the Lower Animals. 'Nature,' March 13, 1873, volume vii. + page 360. + </p> + <p> + Origin of certain instincts. 'Nature,' April 3, 1873, volume vii. page + 417. + </p> + <p> + Habits of Ants. 'Nature,' July 24, 1873, volume viii. page 244. + </p> + <p> + On the Males and Complemental Males of Certain Cirripedes, and on + Rudimentary Structures. 'Nature,' September 25, 1873, volume viii. page + 431. + </p> + <p> + Recent researches on Termites and Honey-bees. 'Nature,' February 19, 1874, + volume ix. page 308. + </p> + <p> + Fertilisation of the Fumariaceae. 'Nature,' April 16, 1874, volume ix. + page 460. + </p> + <p> + Flowers of the Primrose destroyed by Birds. 'Nature,' April 23, 1874, + volume ix. page 482; May 14, 1874, volume x. page 24. + </p> + <p> + Cherry Blossoms. 'Nature,' May 11, 1876, volume xiv. page 28. + </p> + <p> + Sexual Selection in relation to Monkeys. 'Nature,' November 2, 1876, + volume xv. page 18. Reprinted as a supplement to the 'Descent of Man,' + 18.. + </p> + <p> + Fritz Muller on Flowers and Insects. 'Nature,' November 29, 1877, volume + xvii. page 78. + </p> + <p> + The Scarcity of Holly Berries and Bees. "Gardeners' Chronicle", January + 20, 1877, page 83. + </p> + <p> + Note on Fertilization of Plants. "Gardeners' Chronicle", volume vii. page + 246, 1877. + </p> + <p> + A biographical sketch of an infant. 'Mind,' No.7, July, 1877. + </p> + <p> + Transplantation of Shells. 'Nature,' May 30, 1878, volume xviii. page 120. + </p> + <p> + Fritz Muller on a Frog having Eggs on its back—on the abortion of + the hairs on the legs of certain Caddis-Flies, etc. 'Nature,' March 20, + 1879, volume xix. page 462. + </p> + <p> + Rats and Water-Casks. 'Nature,' March 27, 1879, volume xix. page 481. + </p> + <p> + Fertility of Hybrids from the common and Chinese Goose. 'Nature,' January + 1, 1880, volume xxi. page 207. + </p> + <p> + The Sexual Colours of certain Butterflies. 'Nature,' January 8, 1880, + volume xxi. page 237. + </p> + <p> + The Omori Shell Mounds. 'Nature,' April 15, 1880, volume xxi. page 561. + </p> + <p> + Sir Wyville Thomson and Natural Selection. 'Nature,' November 11, 1880, + volume xxiii. page 32. + </p> + <p> + Black Sheep. 'Nature,' December 30, 1880, volume xxiii. page 193. + </p> + <p> + Movements of Plants. 'Nature,' March 3, 1881, volume xxiii. page 409. + </p> + <p> + The Movements of Leaves. 'Nature,' April 28, 1881, volume xxiii. page 603. + </p> + <p> + Inheritance. 'Nature,' July 21, 1881, volume xxiv. page 257. + </p> + <p> + Leaves injured at Night by Free Radiation. 'Nature,' September 15, 1881, + volume xxiv. page 459. + </p> + <p> + The Parasitic Habits of Molothrus. 'Nature,' November 17, 1881, volume + xxv. page 51. + </p> + <p> + On the Dispersal of Freshwater Bivalves. 'Nature,' April 6, 1882, volume + xxv. page 529. + </p> + <p> + The Action of Carbonate of Ammonia on the Roots of certain Plants. [Read + March 16, 1882.] Linnean Society Journal ("Botany"), volume xix. 1882, + pages 239-261. + </p> + <p> + The Action of Carbonate of Ammonia on Chlorophyll-bodies. [Read March 6, + 1882.] Linnean Society Journal ("Botany"), volume xix. 1882, pages 262- + 284. + </p> + <p> + On the modification of a Race of Syrian Street-Dogs by means of Sexual + Selection. By W. Van Dyck. With a preliminary notice by Charles Darwin. + [Read April 18, 1882.] Proceedings of the Zoological Society 1882, pages + 367-370. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE3" id="link2H_APPE3"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX III. + </h2> + <h3> + PORTRAITS. + </h3> + <p> + 1838: Water-colour by G. Richmond in the possession of The Family. + </p> + <p> + 1851: Lithograph by Ipswich British Association Series. + </p> + <p> + 1853: Chalk Drawing by Samuel Lawrence in the possession of The Family. + </p> + <p> + 1853?: Chalk Drawing (Probably a sketch made at one of the sittings for + the last mentioned.) by Samuel Lawrence in the possession of Prof. Hughes, + Cambridge. + </p> + <p> + 1869: Bust, marble, by T. Woolner, R.A. in the possession of The Family. + </p> + <p> + 1875: Oil Painting (A replica by the artist is in the possession of + Christ's College, Cambridge.) by W. Ouless, R.A., etched by P. Rajon, in + the possession of The Family. + </p> + <p> + 1879: Oil Painting by W.B. Richmond in the possession of The University of + Cambridge. + </p> + <p> + 1881: Oil Painting (A replica by the artist is in the possession of W.E. + Darwin, Esq., Southampton.) by the Hon. John Collier, in the possession of + The Linnaean Society, etched by Leopold Flameng. + </p> + <p> + CHIEF PORTRAITS AND MEMORIALS NOT TAKEN FROM LIFE. + </p> + <p> + Statue by Joseph Boehm, R.A., in the possession of Museum, South + Kensington. + </p> + <p> + Bust by Chr. Lehr, Junr. + </p> + <p> + Plaque by T. Woolner, R.A., and Josiah Wedgwood and Sons in the possession + of Christ's College, in Charles Darwin's Room. + </p> + <p> + Deep Medallion by J. Boehm, R.A. to be placed in Westminster Abbey. + </p> + <p> + CHIEF ENGRAVINGS FROM PHOTOGRAPHS. + </p> + <p> + 1854?: By Messrs. Maull and Fox, engraved on wood for 'Harper's Magazine' + (October 1884). + </p> + <p> + 1870?: By O.J. Rejlander, engraved on steel by C.H. Jeens for 'Nature' + (June 4, 1874). + </p> + <p> + 1874?: By Captain Darwin, R.E., engraved on wood for the 'Century + Magazine' (January 1883). Frontispiece, volume i. + </p> + <p> + (The dates of these photographs must, from various causes, remain + uncertain. Owing to a loss of books by fire, Messrs. Maull and Fox can + give only an approximate date. Mr. Rejlander died some years ago, and his + business was broken up. My brother, captain Darwin, has no record of the + date at which his photograph was taken.) + </p> + <p> + 1881: By Messrs. Elliott and Fry, engraved on wood by G. Kruells, for the + present work. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE4" id="link2H_APPE4"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX IV. + </h2> + <h3> + HONOURS, DEGREES, SOCIETIES, ETC. + </h3> + <p> + (The list has been compiled from the diplomas and letters in my father's + possession, and is no doubt incomplete, as he seems to have lost or + mislaid some of the papers received from foreign Societies. Where the name + of a foreign Society (excluding those in the United States) is given in + English, it is a translation of the Latin (or in one case Russian) of the + original Diploma.) + </p> + <p> + ORDER.—Prussian Order, 'Pour le Merite.' 1867. + </p> + <p> + OFFICE.—County Magistrate. 1857. + </p> + <p> + DEGREES. + </p> + <p> + Cambridge: B.A. 1831 [1832]. See volume i. M.A. 1837. Hon. LL.D. 1877. + </p> + <p> + Breslau: Hon. Doctor in Medicine and Surgery. 1862. + </p> + <p> + Bonn: Hon. Doctor in Medicine and Surgery. 1868. + </p> + <p> + Leyden: Hon. M.D. 1875. + </p> + <p> + SOCIETIES.—London: + </p> + <p> + Zoological. Corresponding Member. 1831. (He afterwards became a Fellow of + the Society.) Entomological. 1833, Original Member. Geological. 1836. + Wollaston Medal, 1859. Royal Geographical. 1838. Royal. 1839. Royal Medal, + 1853. Copley Medal, 1864. Linnean. 1854. Ethnological. 1861. + Medico-Chirurgical. Hon. Member. 1868. Baly Medal of the Royal College of + Physicians, 1879. + </p> + <p> + SOCIETIES.—PROVINCIAL, COLONIAL, AND INDIAN. + </p> + <p> + Royal Society of Edinburgh, 1865. Royal Medical Society of Edinburgh, + 1826. Hon. Member, 1861. Royal Irish Academy. Hon. Member, 1866. Literary + and Philosophical Society of Manchester. Hon. Member, 1868. Watford + Natural History Society. Hon. Member, 1877. Asiatic Society of Bengal. + Hon. Member, 1871. Royal Society of New South Wales. Hon. Member, 1879. + Philosophical Institute of Canterbury, New Zealand. Hon. Member, 1863. New + Zealand Institute. Hon. Member, 1872. + </p> + <p> + FOREIGN SOCIETIES.—AMERICA. + </p> + <p> + Sociedad Cientifica Argentina. Hon. Member, 1877. Academia Nacional de + Ciencias, Argentine Republic. Hon. Member, 1878. Sociedad Zoologica + Arjentina. Hon. Member, 1874. Boston Society of Natural History. Hon. + Member, 1873. American Academy of Arts and Sciences (Boston). Foreign Hon. + Member, 1874. California Academy of Sciences. Hon. Member, 1872. + California State Geological Society. Corresponding Member, 1877. Franklin + Literary Society, Indiana. Hon. Member, 1878. Sociedad de Naturalistas + Neo-Granadinos. Hon. Member, 1860. New York Academy of Sciences. Hon. + Member, 1879. Gabinete Portuguez de Leitura em Pernambuco. Corresponding + Member, 1879. Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. Correspondent, + 1860. American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia. Member, 1869. + </p> + <p> + AUSTRIA-HUNGARY. + </p> + <p> + Imperial Academy of Sciences of Vienna. Foreign Corresponding Member, + 1871; Hon. Foreign Member, 1875. Anthropologische Gesellschaft in Wien. + Hon. Member, 1872. K. k. Zoologisch-botanische Gesellschaft in Wien. + Member, 1867. Magyar Tudomanyos Akademia, Pest, 1872. + </p> + <p> + BELGIUM. + </p> + <p> + Societe Royale des Sciences Medicales et Naturelles de Bruxelles. Hon. + Member, 1878. Societie Royale de Botanique de Belgique. 'Membre Associe,' + 1881. Academie Royale des Sciences, etc., de Belgique. 'Associe de la + Classe des Sciences.' 1870. + </p> + <p> + DENMARK. + </p> + <p> + Royal Society of Copenhagen. Fellow, 1879. + </p> + <p> + FRANCE. + </p> + <p> + Societe d'Anthropologie de Paris. Foreign Member, 1871. Societe + Entomologique de France. Hon. Member, 1874. Societe Geologique de France + (Life Member), 1837. Institut de France. 'Correspondant' Section of + Botany, 1878. + </p> + <p> + GERMANY. + </p> + <p> + Royal Prussian Academy of Sciences (Berlin). Corresponding Member, 1863; + Fellow, 1878. Berliner Gesellschaft fur Anthropologie, etc. Corresponding + Member, 1877. Schlesische Gesellschaft fur Vaterlandische Cultur + (Breslau). Hon. Member 1878. Caesarea Leopoldino-Carolina Academia Naturae + Curiosorum (Dresden). 1857. (The diploma contains the words "accipe... ex + antiqua nostra consuetudine cognomen Forster." It was formerly the custom + in the "Caesarea Leopoldin-Carolina Academia", that each new member should + receive as a 'cognomen,' a name celebrated in that branch of science to + which he belonged. Thus a physician might be christened Boerhave, or an + astronomer, Kepler. My father seems to have been named after the traveller + John Reinhold Forster.) Senkenbergische Naturforschende Gesellschaft zu + Frankfurt am Main. Corresponding Member, 1873. Naturforschende + Gesellschaft zu Halle. Member 1879. Siebenburgische Verein fur + Naturwissenschaften (Hermannstadt). Hon. Member, 1877. + Medicinisch-naturwissenschaftliche Gesellschaft zu Jena. Hon. Member, + 1878. Royal Bavarian Academy of Literature and Science (Munich). Foreign + Member, 1878. + </p> + <p> + HOLLAND. + </p> + <p> + Koninklijke Natuurkundige Vereeniging in Nederlandsch-Indie (Batavia). + Corresponding Member, 1880. Societe Hollandaise des Sciences a Harlem. + Foreign Member, 1877. Zeeuwsch Genootschap der Wetenschappen te + Middelburg. Foreign Member, 1877. + </p> + <p> + ITALY. + </p> + <p> + Societa Geografica Italiana (Florence). 1870. Societa Italiana di + Antropologia e di Etnologia (Florence). Hon. Member, 1872. Societa dei + Naturalisti in Modena. Hon. Member, 1875. Academia de' Lincei di Roma. + Foreign Member, 1875. La Scuola Italica, Academia Pitagorica, Reale ed + Imp. Societa (Rome). "Presidente Onoraria degli Anziani Pitagorici," 1880. + Royal Academy of Turin. 1873. "Bressa" Prize, 1879. + </p> + <p> + PORTUGAL. + </p> + <p> + Sociedade de Geographia de Lisboa (Lisbon). Corresponding Member, 1877. + </p> + <p> + RUSSIA. + </p> + <p> + Society of Naturalists of the Imperial Kazan University. Hon. Member, + 1875. Societas Caesarea Naturae Curiosorum (Moscow). Hon. Member, 1870. + Imperial Academy of Sciences (St. Petersburg). Corresponding Member, 1867. + </p> + <p> + SPAIN. + </p> + <p> + Institucion Libre de Ensenanza (Madrid). Hon. Professor, 1877. + </p> + <p> + SWEDEN. + </p> + <p> + Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (Stockholm). Foreign Member, 1865. Royal + Society of Sciences (Upsala). Fellow, 1860. + </p> + <p> + SWITZERLAND. + </p> + <p> + Societe des Sciences Naturelles de Neuchatel. Corresponding Member, 1863. + </p> + <p> + INDEX. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ABBOT, F.E., letter to. + + ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES (Philadelphia) elects Darwin a member. + + AGASSIZ, Alexander, letter to. + + AGASSIZ, Louis, Darwin's estimate of. + Letters to. + His attitude toward the 'Origin of Species.' + Reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + AGGREGATION, studied by Darwin. + + 'ALMANACK, THE NATURALISTS' POCKET,' mentioned. + + ANDES, Darwin crosses the. + + 'ANNALS AND MAGAZINE OF NATURAL HISTORY,' mentioned. + + ANTICIPATION of Darwin's views. + + ANTS, observations on. + + APPLETON, D., & CO., publish 'Origin of Species' in America. + + ARGYLL, Duke of, criticises the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin's comments on his criticisms. + Darwin on his 'Reign of Law.' + Reviews the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + + ARISTOTLE, Darwin's estimate of. + + ARRANGEMENT of leaves on the stems of plants. + + 'ATHENAEUM,' Darwin on its review of the 'Origin of Species.' + Reports British Association discussion. + Darwin's letters to, in his own defence. + Criticises Darwin. + + AUSTRALIA, development of animals in. + + AUSTRALIAN flora. + + AUSTRIAN expedition. + + AUTOBIOGRAPHY, extracts from. + + AVELING, Dr., on Darwin's religious views. + Note. + + BAIN, Alexander, letter to. + + BALFOUR, Francis M., Darwin's estimate of. + + BALY medal presented to Darwin. + + BAER, K.E. von, agrees with Darwin. + + BASTIAN, H.C., Darwin on his 'Beginnings of Life.' + + BATES, H.W., Darwin on his insect fauna of the Amazon valley. + Letters to. + Darwin on his mimetic variations of butterflies. + + BATS. + + "BEAGLE", voyage of. + Darwin offered an appointment to the. + Her equipments. + Object of her voyage. + Her crew. + + BEETLES, collecting. + + BEHRENS, W., letter to. + + BELL, T., describes Darwin's reptiles. + + BELL-STONE of Shrewsbury mentioned. + + BELT, Thomas, Darwin on his 'Naturalist in Nicaragua.' + + BEMMELEN, A. van, letter to. + + BENTHAM, George, his silence on natural selection. + Letter to Francis Darwin on his adoption of Darwin's views. + His view of natural selection. + Letters to. + + BERKELEY, Rev. M.J., reviews the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + + BERLIN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES elects Darwin corresponding member. + + BET made by Darwin. + + BLOMEFIELD (JENYNS), Rev. Leonard, Darwin becomes acquainted with. + Letters to. + Darwin on his 'Observations in Natural History.' + + BLOOM on leaves and fruit, Darwin's work on. + + BLYTH, Edward, mentioned. + + BOOLE, Mrs., her letter on natural selection and religion. + Letter to. + + BOOTT, Francis, mentioned. + + BOTANY, Darwin's work on, and its relation to natural selection. + + BOWEN, Francis, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + BRACE, C.L., and wife, Darwin on their philanthropic work. + + BRAZIL, Emperor of, wishes to meet Darwin. + + BREE, C.R., his work 'Species not Transmutable.' + Accuses Wallace of blundering, and is answered by Darwin. + + BREEDING, sources of information on. + + BRESSA prize presented to Darwin. + + BRITISH ASSOCIATION discusses the 'Origin of Species.' + Oxford meeting of, allegorized. + Belfast meeting. + + BRONN, H.G., edits the 'Origin of Species' in German. + Letters to. + Criticisms on the 'Origin of Species.' + + BROWN, Robert, mentioned. + + BRUNTON, T. Lauder, letter to. + + BUCKLE, his system of collecting facts. + Darwin on his 'History of Civilisation.' + + BUCKLEY, Miss A.B., letters to. + + BUFFON, Darwin on. + + BUNBURY, Sir C., mentioned. + + BUTLER, Samuel, charges Darwin of falsehood. + + BUTLER, Dr., his school at Shrewsbury. + + BUTTON, Jemmy, a visit to. + + CAIRNS, J.E., his lecture on 'The Slave Power.' + + CAM BRIDGE, University of, makes Darwin LL.D. + Obtains memorial portrait of him. + + CAMERON, Mrs., makes a photograph of Darwin. + + CANARY ISLANDS, projected trip to. + + CANDOLLE, Alphonse de, letters to. + His view of the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin on his 'Histoire des Sciences et des Savants.' + + CARLYLE, Thomas, on Erasmus A. Darwin. + His interesting talk. + + CARPENTER, W.B., letters to. + Reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + His work on 'Foraminifera.' + + CARUS, J. Victor, letters to. + + CATON, John D., letter to. + + CHAMBERS, R., Darwin on his geological views. + + CHANCE, not implied in evolution. + + CHIMNEY-SWEEPS, Darwin's efforts for. + + CIRRIPEDIA, monograph of the. + Nomenclature of. + Work on. + The so-called auditory sac of. + + CIVIL WAR in the United States. + Darwin on. + + CLARK, William, mentioned. + + CLARK, Sir Andrew, is Darwin's physician. + + CLIMATE and migration. + + 'CLIMBING PLANTS,' written and published. + Work on. + Republished in book-form. + + COAL, discussion on submarine. + + COHN, Prof., describes a visit to Darwin. + + COLENSO, Bishop, his 'Pentateuch and the Book of Joshua.' + + COLLECTING, Darwin on. + Butterflies. + + COLLIER, John, paints Darwin's portrait. + + COLOURS OF INSECTS. + + CONTINENTAL EXTENSION, Darwin's reasons against. + + CONTINENTS, permanence of. + + COPE, E.D., Darwin on his theory of acceleration. + + COPLEY MEDAL presented to Darwin. + + 'CORAL REEFS,' at work upon. + Opinions on. + Criticised by Semper. + Darwin's answer to Semper. + Darwin on Murray's criticisms of. + Second edition. + + CRAWFORD, John, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + CREATIVE POWER. + + 'CREED OF SCIENCE,' read by Darwin. + + CRESY, E., letter to. + + CRICK, W.D., communicates to Darwin a mode of dispersal of bivalve shells. + + CUTTING EDGES OF BOOKS, Darwin on. + + DANA, Prof., sends Darwin 'Geology of U.S. Expedition.' + + DARESTE, Camille, letter to. + + DARWIN FAMILY. + + DARWIN, Annie, Darwin's account of. + Death of. + + DARWIN, Miss C., letter to. + + DARWIN, Catherine, letters to. + + DARWIN, Charles, studies medicine at Edinburgh. + Young man of great promise. + + DARWIN, Charles Robert (1809-1882). + Table of relationship. + Ancestors. + Personal characteristics as traced from his forefathers. + Love and respect for his father's memory. + His affection for his brother Erasmus. + Autobiography. + Mother dies. + Taste for natural history. + School-boy experiences. + Humane disposition toward animals. + Goes to Dr. Butler's school at Shrewsbury. + Taste for long, solitary walks. + Inability to master a language. + Leaves school with strong and diversified tastes. + Fondness for poetry in early life. + A wish to travel first roused by reading 'Wonders of the World.' + Fondness for shooting. + Collects minerals and becomes interested in insects and birds. + Studies chemistry. + Goes to Edinburgh University. + And attends medical lectures. + Collects and dissects marine animals. + Attends meetings of the Plinian Royal Medical and Wernerian societies. + Attends lectures on geology and zoology. + Meets Sir J. Mackintosh. + Spends three years at Cambridge studying for the ministry. + Phrenological characteristics. + Reads Paley with delight. + Attends Henslow's lectures on botany. + His taste for pictures and music. + His interest in entomology. + Friendship of Prof. Henslow and its influence upon his career. + Meets Dr. Whewell. + Reads Humboldt's 'Personal Narrative' and Herschel's 'Introduction to the + Study of Natural History.' + Begins the study of geology. + Field-work in North Wales. + Voyage of the "Beagle". + Receives a proposal to sail in the "Beagle". + Starts for Cambridge and thence to London. + 'Voyage of the "Beagle" the most important event in my life.' + Sails in the "Beagle". + His letters read before the Philosophical Society of Cambridge. + Returns to England. + Begins his 'Journal of Travels.' + Takes lodgings in London. + Begins preparing MS. for his 'Geological Observations.' + Arranges for publication of 'Zoology of the Voyage of the "Beagle". + Opens first note-book of 'Origin of Species.' + Meets Lyell and Robert Brown. + Marries. + Works on his 'Coral Reefs.' + Reads papers before Geological Society. + Acts as secretary of the Geological Society. + Residence at Down. + His absorption in science. + His publications. + 'Geological Observations' published. + Success of the 'Journal of Researches.' + Begins work on 'Cirripedia.' + visits to water-cure establishments. + Work on the 'Origin of Species.' + Reads 'Malthus on Population.' + Begins notes on 'Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication.' + Becomes interested in cross-fertilisation of flowers. + Publishes papers on dimorphic and trimorphic plants. + Publishes 'Descent of Man.' + First child born. + Publishes translation and sketch of 'Life of Erasmus Darwin.' + Methods of work. + Mental qualities. + Fond of novel reading. + A good observer. + Habits and personal appearance. + Ill health. + Fondness for dogs. + Correspondence. + Business habits. + Scientific reading. + Wide interest in science. + Journals of daily events. + Holidays. + Relation to his family and friends. + His account of his little daughter Annie. + How he brought up his children. + Manner towards servants. + As a host. + Modesty. + Not quick at argument. + Intercourse with strangers. + Use of simple methods and few instruments. + Perseverance. + Theorizing power. + Books used only as tools. + Use of note-books and portfolios. + Courteous tone toward his reader. + Illustration of his books. + Consideration for other authors. + His wife's tender care. + Cambridge life. + His character. + Intention of going into the church. + Appointment to the "Beagle". + The voyage. + Life at sea. + Views on slavery. + Excursion across the Andes. + Meets Sir J. Herschel. + Reaches home. + Life at London and Cambridge. + Residence at Cambridge. + Works on his 'Journal of Researches.' + Appointed secretary of Geological Society. + Visits Glen Roy. + Admiration for Lyell's 'Elements.' + Increasing ill-health. + At work on 'Coral Reefs.' + His religious views. + Life at Down, 1842-1854. + Reasons for leaving London. + Early impressions of Down. + Theory of coral islands. + Time spent on geological books. + Purchases farm in Lincolnshire. + Dines with Lord Mahon. + Daughter Annie dies. + His children. + Growth of views on 'Origin of Species.' + Plan for publishing 'Sketch of 1844,' in case of his sudden death. + Pigeon fancying enterprise. + Collecting plants. + General acceptance of his work. + Publishes 'Origin of Species.' + Elected correspondent of the Academy of Natural Sciences (Philadelphia). + His views on the civil war in the United States. + At Bournemouth. + His view of Lyell's 'Antiquity of Man.' + Receives the Copley medal. + Elected to Royal Society of Edinburgh. + His conscientiousness in argument. + His intercourse with horticulturists and stock-raisers. + Elected to the Royal Society of Holland. + Made a knight of the Prussian order Pour le Merite. + Sits for a bust. + Declines a nomination for the degree of D.C.L. because of ill-health. + His connection with the South American Missionary Society. + His answers to Galton's questions on nature and nurture. + Sits for portrait to W. Ouless. + Elected to Physiological Society. + Replies to Miss Cobbe on vivisection in the "Times". + Publishes the 'Life of Erasmus Darwin.' + Sits for memorial portraits. + Receives various honours. + Makes a present to the Naples Zoological Station. + His answers to Galton's questions on the faculty of visualising. + Offers aid to Fritz Muller. + Replies to Sir W. Thomson on abyssal fauna. + His botanical work. + Builds a greenhouse. + Publishes work on the fertilisation of orchids. + Studies the bloom on leaves and fruit. + Studies the causes of variability. + Studies the production of galls. + Studies aggregation. + Encourages Torbitt's work on the potato disease. + Aids the preparation of the Kew 'Index of Plant-names.' + Death. + Burial in Westminster Abbey. + List of works. + + DARWIN & Wallace's joint paper on variation. + + DARWIN, Edward, author of 'Gamekeeper's Manual.' + + DARWIN, Mrs. Emma (Wedgwood), letter to. + + DARWIN, Erasmus (born 1731), poet and philosopher. + Character of. + Life published in English. + + DARWIN, Erasmus (born 1759). + + DARWIN, Erasmus Alvey (1804-1881), educated as a physician. + Character of. + Carlyle's sketch of his character. + Miss Wedgwood's letter on his character. + Letter from. + His death. + + DARWIN, Robert, of Elston Hall. + Charles Darwin's estimate of. + + DARWIN, Robert Waring, (born 1724), publishes 'Principia Botanica.' + + DARWIN, Robert Waring, (born 1767), studies medicine at Leyden. + Settles in Shrewsbury. + Marries Susannah Wedgwood. + His son Charles's description of him. + His six children. + Letters to. + + DARWIN, Susan, letters to. + + DARWIN, William, of Marton, first known ancestor of Charles. + + DARWIN, William, son of Richard, appointed yeoman of the Royal Armoury. + + DARWIN, William (1655). + + DARWYN, Richard, of Marton, mentioned. + + DAVIDSON, Thomas, letter to, asking him to investigate brachiopods. + Letter to. + On British brachiopoda. + + DE CANDOLLE, A., see Candolle, A. De. + + DESCENT, doctrine of. + + DESCENT OF ANIMALS. + + 'DESCENT OF MAN,' published. + Work on. + Reviews of. + Reception in Germany. + Wallace's views on. + Second edition. + Connected with socialism. + + DESIGN IN NATURE, doctrine of. + + DIAGRAMS OF DESCENT OF MAMMALS. + + 'DIFFERENT FORMS OF FLOWERS,' published. + Reviewed in 'Nature.' + + DIGESTION OF PLANTS, Darwin's work on. + + DISTRIBUTION OF ANIMALS. + + DIVERGENCE OF CHARACTER, principle of. + + DOGS, multiple origin of. + + DOHRN, Anton, letter to. + + DONDERS, F.C., letters to. + + DOWN, description of. + + DRIFT near Southampton, stones standing on end in. + + DU BOIS-REYMOND agrees with Darwin. + + DYCK, W.T. van, letter to. + + DYER, W. Thiselton, on Darwin's botanical work. + Letters to. + + EAR, human, infolded point of. + + Earthquakes, paper read on. + + EATON, J., extract from his book on 'Pigeons.' + + 'EDINBURGH REVIEW,' Darwin's criticisms on. + + EDUCATION, Darwin on. + + 'EFFECTS OF CROSS And SELF-FERTILISATION,' published. + Work on. + + ELECTRICAL ORGANS in fish. + + ERRATIC BOULDERS of South America, paper on, read. + + EVOLUTION, doctrine of, objections to, answered. + Not a doctrine of chance. + And teleology. + Neither anti-theistic nor theistic. + Mental. + + EXPRESSION, facial, origin of. + + 'EXPRESSION OF The EMOTIONS,' published. + Work on. + Reviews of. + + EYRE, Gov., Darwin's views on the prosecution of. + + FABRE, J.H., letter to. + + FALCONER, Hugh, letters to. + Mentioned. + Letter to Darwin. + Views on the origin of elephants. + Reclamation from Lyell's 'Antiquity of Man.' + + FARRER, F.W., letter to. + + FARRER, Sir Thomas H., aids Darwin's researches on earthworms. + Letters to. + + FAWCETT, Henry, defends Darwin's reasoning. + + 'FERTILISATION OF ORCHIDS,' published. + + FISKE, John, letter to. + + FISHER, Mrs., letters to. + + FITTON, W.H., mentioned. + + FITZ-ROY, R.,captain of the "Beagle". + His character. + Meets Darwin. + Letters to. + His intention of resigning. + + FLINT instruments. + + FLOURENS, P.,on the 'Origin of Species.' + + FLOWERS, fertilisation of. + + FORBES, David, praises Darwin's work on Chile. + + FORBES, Edward, his theory of change of level. + + FORDYCE, J.,letter to. + + FOREL, Aug., letter to. + + 'FORMATION OF VEGETABLE MOULD,' paper read on. + Published. + Work on. + Its reception. + + FOX, William Darwin, Darwin's friendship with. + Letters to. + + FRANCE, Institute of, elects Darwin corresponding member. + + FRAUDS, scientific. + + FREE-WILL, doctrine of. + + FREKE, Dr., his 'Origin of Species by Means of Organic Affinity.' + + FEUGIANS, Darwin's impressions of. + + GALAPAGOS animals and plants. + + GALLS, production of, studied by Darwin. + + GALTON, Francis, mentioned. + His questions on nature and nurture, and Darwin's answers. + His questions on the faculty of visualising, and Darwin's answers. + + 'GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,' Darwin answers Mr. Westwood in. + + GAUDRY, A., letter to. + + GEIKIE, Archibald, his opinion of Darwin's geological works. + + GEIKIE, James, letter to. + + GENERA, varying of large. + + GENERATION, spontaneous. + + GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. + + 'GEOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,' MS. begun. + + 'GEOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS ON VOLCANIC ISLANDS' published. + Opinions on. + Second edition. + + 'GEOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS ON SOUTH AMERICA,' opinions on. + + GEOLOGICAL RECORD, imperfection of. + Succession in. + + GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY, Darwin wishes to become a member. + Papers contributed to. + + GEOLOGICAL SPECIMENS secured during voyage. + Disposed of. + + GEOLOGICAL, importance of. + Of St. Jago. + Article on, in 'Admiralty Manual.' + Darwin on the progress of. + + GERMANY, progress of natural selection in. + + GERMINATION, experiments in. + + GILBERT, J.H., letter to. + + GLACIAL period, its effect on species. + Phenomena at Cwm Idwal. + + GLACIERS, paper on ancient, in Wales. + + GLEN ROY, Darwin visits. + 'Observations' on, published. + Work criticised by D. Milne. + + GOURMET CLUB and its members. + + GOVERNMENT AID in publication of 'Zoology of Voyage of "Beagle".' + + GRAHAM, W., letter to. + + GRAY, Asa, his papers on natural selection and natural theology. + Letters to. + Letter to Hooker on the 'Origin of Species.' + On the 'Origin of Species.' + Reviews the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + Reviews the 'Variation of Animals and Plants.' + + GRAY, J.E., mentioned. + + GUNTHER, A., letters to. + + GURNEY, E., letter to. + + HAAST, Sir Julius von, letter to. + + HAECKEL, E., his views on the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin's friendship with. + His work for natural selection in Germany. + Letters to. + + HALIBURTON, Mrs., letters to. + + HARVEY, W.H., criticises the 'Origin of Species.' + + HAUGHTON, Rev. S., criticises Darwin and Wallace's joint paper. + + HENSLOW, J.S., his friendship with Darwin. + His character. + Letter from. + Letters to. + Presides at the Oxford discussion on the 'Origin of Species.' + His views on natural selection. + His death. + + HERBERT, John Maurice, Darwin's friendship with. + Letters to. + + HERSCHEL, Sir J., Darwin's opinion of. + Meets Darwin. + + HETEROGENY, Darwin on. + + HIGGINSON, T.W., letter to. + + HILDEBRAND, F., letters to. + + HIPPOCRATES anticipates Darwin on pangenesis. + + HOLMGREN, Frithiof, letter to. + + HOLLAND, Royal Society of, elects Darwin a member. + + HOLLAND, Sir Henry, his view of the 'Origin of Species.' + + HOMOEOPATHY, Darwin's estimate of. + + HONOURS conferred on Darwin, list of. + + HOOKER, Sir Joseph D., Darwin's friendship for. + Letters to. + Letter from. + His reminiscences of Darwin. + On the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin on his 'Australian Flora.' + Answers Harvey. + Memorial on his treatment by the First Commissioner of Works. + Reviews the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + + HOOKER, Sir William, mentioned. + + HOPKINS, William, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + HUDSON, Darwin's reply to. + + HUMBOLDT, Darwin's estimate of. + + HUTTON, F.W., reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + HUXLEY, Thomas Henry, mentioned. + His opinion of Darwin's work on 'Cirripedes.' + On the 'Vestiges of Creation.' + On the 'Philosophie Zoologique.' + On the 'Principles of Geology.' + On the reception of the 'Origin of Species.' + Letters to. + On the 'Origin of Species.' + Reviews the 'Origin of Species' in 'Westminster Review.' + Defends Darwin before the British Association. + Contradicts R. Owen. + Letter from. + Lectures to workingmen on natural selection. + Asked by Darwin to write a text-book on zoology. + Replies to the 'Quarterly' reviewer on the 'Descent of Man.' + + HYATT, Alpheus, letter to, on his theory of acceleration. + + HYBRID GEESE, fertility of. + + HYBRIDISM. + + IMMORTALITY, Darwin's views upon. + + 'INFANT, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF AN.' + + INFERIORITY inherited by the forms which are beaten. + + INNES, Rev. J. Brodie, on Darwin's interest in village affairs. + On the 'Origin of Species' and the Bible. + On Darwin's conscientiousness. + Letter to. + + 'INSECTIVOROUS PLANTS,' published. + Work on. + + INSECTS, instinct of. + As carriers of pollen. + + INSTINCT, Darwin on. + + ISLANDS, animals of. + + ISOLATION, effect of, on the origin of species. + + JARDINE, Sir W., mentioned. + + JEFFREYS, Gwyn, mentioned. + + JENKINS, Fleeming, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin on his criticisms. + + JENYNS (BLOMEFIELD), Rev. Leonard, mentioned. + Letters to. + Letter from. + His 'Observations in Natural History.' + + JONES, Dr. Bence, is Darwin's physician. + + 'JOURNAL OF RESEARCHES,' work on. + Lyell's opinion of. + The German translation and its reception. + Second edition published. + Dedication of. + Condemned in manuscript. + + JUDD, Prof., his paper on 'Volcanoes of the Hebrides.' + On Darwin's desire to promote the progress of science. + + JUKES, Joseph B., mentioned. + + KEW, 'Index of Plant Names.' + + KINGSLEY, Rev C., letter from, on the 'Origin of Species.' + + KOCH'S RESEARCHES on splenic fever. + Darwin on. + + KOLLIKER, Prof., is reviewed by Huxley. + + KRAUSE, Ernst, criticises Bronn's German edition of the 'Origin of + Species.' + His essay on Erasmus Darwin published. + + KROHN, Aug., finds mistakes in the 'Origin of Species.' + + LAMARCK's discussion of the species question, its insufficiency. + Darwin on. + + LANE, Dr., his recollections of Darwin. + + LANGEL reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + LANKESTER, E. Ray, letter to. + + LANSDOWNE, Marquis of, anecdote of. + + LEE, Samuel, mentioned. + + LESQUEREUX, Leo, accepts the doctrine of natural selection. + + LEWES, G.H., reviews the 'Variation of Animals and Plants.' + + LINDLEY, John, mentioned. + + LINNEAN SOCIETY obtains memorial portrait of Darwin. + + LITCHFIELD, Mrs., on Darwin's style. + Letter to. + + LIZARDS. + + LONSDALE, William, mentioned. + + LOWELL, J.A., reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + LUBBOCK, Sir John, letters to. + On the burial of Darwin. + + LYELL, Sir Charles, estimate of his character as a geologist. + Letters to. + Letters from. + Opinion of 'Coral Reefs.' + His views of the 'Origin of Species.' + On the origin of species by natural causes. + Admission of the doctrine of natural selection. + Darwin on his 'Antiquity of Man.' + Falconer's reclamation from his 'Antiquity of Man.' + Darwin on his 'Elements of Geology.' + His death. + Darwin's opinion of. + + MACAULAY and his memory. + + MCDONNELL, R., his study of electrical organs in fish. + + MACKINTOSH, D., his work on erratic blocks. + + MACLEAY, W.S., mentioned. + + MADEIRA AND BERMUDA birds not peculiar. + + MALAY ARCHIPELAGO,' Wallace's 'Zoological Geography of. + + MAMMALS, descent of, from a single type. + + MAN, all races of, descended from one type. + Antiquity of. + Origin of. + Relationship to apes. + + MARRIAGES, consanguineous. + + MARSH, O.C., letter to. + + MASTERS, Maxwell, letter to. + + MATTHEW, Patrick, anticipates the doctrine of natural selection. + + MAW, George, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + MEDAL of Royal Society awarded to Darwin. + + MEGATHERIUM sent down from heaven. + + MESMERISM, Darwin's estimate of. + + MILNE, D., criticises Glen Roy paper. + + MIMETIC MODIFICATIONS in plants. + + MIVART, St. G., Darwin on his 'Genesis of Species.' + His 'Genesis of Species' reviewed by Chauncey Wright. + Criticised by Huxley. + His 'Lessons from Nature' reviewed in the 'Academy.' + + MODIFICATION. + + MODIFICATIONS, absence of. + + MOGGRIDGE, J.T., letter to. + + MOJSISOVIC, E. von, Darwin on 'Dolomit Riffe.' + + MONADS, persistence of. + + MONSTERS. + + MONSTROSITIES are sterile. + + MORSE, E.S., letter to. + + MOSELEY, H.N., letters to. + + MULLER, Fritz, letters to. + His 'Fur Darwin' translated. + Receives offer of aid from Darwin. + + MULLER, Hermann, letters to. + + MULLER, Max, his 'Lectures on the Science of Language.' + + MURRAY, Andrew, quoted on the 'Origin of Species.' + + MURRAY, John, letters to. + + MUSIC OF INSECTS. + + MUTABILITY OF SPECIES. + + NAGELI, C., his 'Entstehung und Begriff der Naturhistorischen Art.' + Letter to. + + NAPLES Zoological Station receives a present from Darwin. + + NATURAL HISTORY, Darwin's passion for. + + NATURAL SELECTION, see Selection, natural. + + NAUDIN, Darwin on. + + NEUMAYR, Melchior, letter to. + + NEVILL, Lady Dorothy, letter to. + + NEWTON, A., letter to. + Reviews the 'Variation of Animals and Plants.' + + NEW ZEALAND, animals of. + Plants of. + + NOBILITY, natural selection among. + + NOMENCLATURE of species, discussion on. + + NORMAN, E., Darwin's secretary. + + NOVARA expedition. + + 'OBSERVATIONS ON PARALLEL ROADS OF GLEN ROY,' published. + Extract from. + + OGLE, William, letter to. + + 'ORCHIDS, FERTILISATION OF,' work on. + Published. + Reviews of. + Second edition published. + + 'ORCHIS BANK' described. + + ORGANS, rudimentary. + + 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES,' first note-book of, opened. + Growth of the. + Published. + Its success. + Second edition. + Darwin's change of views upon. + Description of sketch of 1844. + Huxley's view of sketch of 1844. + Prof. Newton's view of same. + The writing of. + Abstract book. + Unorthodoxy of. + Faults of style. + Lyell on. + Huxley on. + Bishop Wilberforce on. + Huxley's summary of reviews of. + Answer to Lyell on. + H.C. Watson on. + Jos. D. Hooker on. + French translation proposed. + First German edition. + Reviewed in the "Times". + First American edition. + Asa Gray on. + Kingsley on. + And the Bible. + Rev. J. Brodie Innes on. + Reviewed in the 'Edinburgh Review.' + Reviewed in the 'North American Review.' + Reviewed in the 'Revue des deux Mondes.' + Reviewed in the "New York Times". + Reviewed in the "Christian Examiner". + Discussed by the British Association. + Reviewed in 'Quarterly Review.' + Reviewed in the 'London Review.' + Reviewed in the 'American Journal of Science and Arts. + Bronn's criticisms of. + Reviewed in the 'Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.' + Answers to criticisms on. + Third edition. + 'Historical Sketch of the Recent Progress of Opinion on the.' + Dutch edition. + First French edition. + Reviewed in the 'Geologist.' + Reviewed in the 'Dublin Hospital Gazette.' + Reviewed in the 'Zoologist.' + De Candolle's view of. + Haeckel's view of. + Gen. Sabine on. + Flourens on. + Second French edition. + Criticised by the Duke of Argyll. + Fourth edition. + Third German edition. + Russian editions of. + Fifth edition. + Reviewed in the 'North British Review.' + Reviewed in the 'Athenaeum.' + Third and fourth French editions. + Sixth edition. + Criticised by Pusey. + 'Coming of age of.' + + OSTRICH, Darwin discovers a new species of. + + OULESS, W., paints Darwin's portrait. + + OWEN, Sir R., criticises Darwin's theory. + Contradicted by Huxley. + His views on variation by descent. + + PALEY's argument of design in nature no longer good. + His 'Natural Theology' mentioned. + + PAMPAEAN FORMATION, Darwin on. + + PANGENESIS, hypothesis of. + Opinions on. + Anticipated by Hippocrates. + + PARKER, Henry, defends the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + + PARSONS, Theophilus, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + PEACOCK, George, letter on appointment of naturalist to "Beagle". + Letter from, appointing Darwin to "Beagle". + + PENGELLY, William, mentioned. + + PERTHES, Boucher de, Darwin on. + + PETRELS as agents of distribution. + + PHILLIPS, John, mentioned. + + PHILOSOPHICAL CLUB, its nature. + + 'PHILOSOPHIE ZOOLOGIQUE,' Huxley on. + + PHOTOGRAPHS, albums of, presented to Darwin by German and Dutch scientists. + + PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY elects Darwin an honorary member. + + PICTET, Francois Jules, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + PIGEONS, Darwin's interest in. + + PLANTS, fossil. + sexuality of. + A recent discovery. + + PLATYSMA, contraction of, from shuddering. + + PORTRAITS OF DARWIN, list of. + + POTATO DISEASE, Torbitt's experiments on. + + POUR LE MERITE, Darwin admitted to order. + + POUTER PIGEON, variation in. + + 'POWER OF MOVEMENT IN PLANTS,' published. + Work on. + + PRESTWICH, J., letter to. + + PREYER, W., letter to. + + PRIMOGENITURE, law of, Darwin on. + + 'PRINCIPLES OF GEOLOGY,' Huxley on. + + PRIORITY, nomenclature of species by. + + PROGRESSION, necessary. + + PROTECTION, modification for. + + PUSEY's criticisms of the 'Origin of Species.' + + 'QUARTERLY REVIEW,' recognises merits of 'Journal of Researches.' + + QUATREFAGES, J.L.A. de, letters to. + + RELIGIOUS VIEWS OF DARWIN, difficulties not created by science. + + REMINISCENCES OF DARWIN by Hooker. + + REVELATION, Darwin's disbelief in. + + REVERSION, Darwin on. + + REYMOND, Du Bois-, letter to. + + RICHMOND, W.B., paints Darwin's portrait. + + RIDLEY, C., letter to. + + RIVERS, T., letter to. + + ROBERTSON, G. Croom, letter to. + + ROBERTSON, John, reviews the 'Origin of Species.' + + RODWELL, Rev. J.M., letter to. + + ROLLESTON, George, his 'Canons.' + + ROMAN CATHOLIC church on evolution. + + ROMANES, G.J., on Darwin's conscientiousness. + Letters to. + + ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS presents the Baly medal to Darwin. + + ROYAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH elects Darwin honorary member. + + ROYER, Mlle. Clemence, translates the 'Origin of Species.' + Publishes third French edition. + + RUDIMENTARY organs. + + SABINE, Gen., on the 'Origin of Species.' + + SALTER, J.W., his diagram of spirifers. + 'Sand-walk' described. + + SANDERSON, J. Burdon, letter to. + + SAPORTA, Marquis de, letter to. + + SCHAAFFHAUSEN, H., claims to anticipate Darwin. + + SCOTT, John, Darwin's estimate of. + + SEDGWICK, Rev. Adam, mentioned. + On the 'Origin of Species.' + His review of the 'Origin of Species.' + Criticises the 'Origin of Species.' + On the imperfection of the geological record. + + SEEDS, vitality of. + + SELECTION, NATURAL, doctrine of, clearly conceived by Darwin about 1839. + Opposed to doctrine of design. + Effect of, on the scientific mind. + And religion. + Small effects of, in changing species. + Among the nobility. + Huxley's lectures to workingmen on. + Progress of. + Darwin anticipated on. + Use of the term. + Effect on sterility. + Progress among the clergy. + Progress of, in Germany. + Progress of, in France. + + SELECTION, SEXUAL, instance of, in the dogs of Beyrout. + + SEMPER, K., letters to. + + SHELBURNE, Lord, anecdote of. + + SLAVERY, Darwin's opinion of. + In the United States. + + SMITH, Sydney, inexplicably amusing. + + SOCIALISM and the descent of man. + + SOCIETIES, learned, Darwin's membership in. + + SOUTH AMERICAN MISSIONARY SOCIETY, Darwin's connection with. + + SPECIES, mutability of. + Origin of, effect of isolation on. + Specific centres. + + SPENCER, Herbert, letters to. + Prof. Huxley's friendship with. + Darwin on. + Originates the term 'survival of the fittest.' + His impression of 'Pangenesis.' + + SPIRITISM, Darwin on. + + SPONTANEITY, Bain's theory of. + + SPRENGEL, C.C., his work on the fertilisation of flowers. + + STANHOPE, Lord, his parties of historians. + + STEBBING, Rev. T.R.R., letter to. + + STENDEL'S 'Nomenclator.' + + STERILITY, effect of natural selection on. + Of moths. + + STOKES, Admiral, Lord, extract from letter of. + + STONES standing on end in the Southampton drift. + + STRICKLAND, Hugh, letters to. + Letter from. + + STRIPED HORSES. + + STRUGGLE FOR LIFE. + + STYLE of Darwin. + + SUBLIMITY, where felt most by Darwin. + + SULIVAN, B.J., letter to. + + SULIVAN, Admiral Sir James, extract from letter of. + + SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST, use of the term. + + TEGETMEIER, W.B., extract from letter to. + + TELEOLOGY, evolution and. + Darwin's revival of. + + TENERIFFE, projected trip to. + + THIEL, H., letter to. + + THOMSON, Thomas, mentioned. + + THOMSON, Sir Wyville, on abyssal fauna. + + THORLEY, Miss, botanical work with. + + THWAITES, G.J.K., mentioned. + + TIERRA DEL FUEGO MISSION, Darwin's connection with. + + "TIMES", its review of the 'Origin of Species.' + Darwin on. + + TORBITT, James, his work on the potato disease. + + TURIN, Royal Academy of, presents Darwin the Bressa prize. + + TYLOR, E.B., letter to. + + TYNDALL, John, praises the 'Origin of Species.' + + USBORNE, A.B., extract from a letter of. + + VAN DYCK, W.T., letter to. + + VARIATIONS IN SPECIES, Wallace's essay on. + Darwin and Wallace's joint paper on. + Sudden. + Governed by design. + Cause of. + Mimetic, of butterflies. + Governed by design. + Mimetic, of plants. + In colours of insects. + Transmission of. + Analogical. + Darwin studies the causes of. + + 'VARIATION OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS UNDER DOMESTICATION,' work on. + Publication of. + Reviewed in the "Nation". + Russian edition. + Second edition. + Reviewed in the "Pall Mall Gazette". + Reviewed in the "Gardeners' Chronicle". + Reviewed in the "Athenaeum". + Reviewed in the 'Zoological Record.' + American edition. + + VARIETIES, production of. + And species, collecting facts about. + + 'VESTIGES OF CREATION' read by Darwin. + Huxley on. + + VINES, S.H., letter to. + + VIRCHOW connects the descent of man with socialism. + + VISUALISING, questions and answers on the faculty of. + + VIVISECTION. + + WAGNER, Moritz, criticised by A. Weismann. + Letters to. + + WAGNER, R., mentioned. + + WALLACE, A.R., sends essay to Darwin. + Letters to. + Essay on variation. + His 'Zoological Geography.' + Reviews the 'Descent of Man.' + Reviews Mivart's 'Lessons from Nature.' + Pension granted to. + Defends the 'Fertilisation of Orchids.' + + WATKINS, Archdeacon, reminiscence of Darwin. + Letter to. + + WATSON, H.C., mentioned. + On the 'Origin of Species.' + + WEDGWOOD, Josiah, his character. + Mentioned. + Letter from. + + WEDGWOOD, Miss Julia, on Erasmus Darwin, in "Spectator". + Letter to. + + WEISMANN, August, letters to. + + WELLS, Dr., anticipates Darwin on natural selection. + + WESTMINSTER ABBEY, Darwin buried in. + + WHEWELL, Dr., mentioned. + On the succession of species. + + WHITLEY, C., letter to. + + WIESNER, Julius, letter to. + + WILBERFORCE, Bishop, criticises the 'Origin of Species.' + + WILLIAM IV, coronation of. + + WOODPECKER, Pampas, Darwin on. + + WOOLNER, T., makes a bust of Darwin. + Discovers infolded point of the human ear. + + WOLLASTON MEDAL. + + WOLLASTON's 'Insecta Maderensia.' + His 'Variation of Species' referred to. + + WORKS BY DARWIN, list of. + + WRIGHT, Chauncey, letter from. + Letters to. + On his visit to Darwin at Down. + + YARRELL, William, mentioned. + + ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY, Darwin visits. + Reads a paper at. + + 'ZOOLOGY OF THE VOYAGE OF H.M.S. 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