My dear Sir

I am writing in London, as not having been very well of late, I have come here for 2 or 3 days rest.¹

Your secret shall be inviolable, and to make sure in case of my illness or death I have now burnt your letter.² I kindly? sincerely?³ wish you success in your projects, but it is not the least use consulting me, as I never have and never shall attend to any commercial affair.

I suppose the success of your projects would depend on the contingent expenses of the process, though it is obviously a gain for the public to save waste food. I wish you success but pray do not be rash, and remember that though enthusiasm is a virtue it is a dangerous one.

Believe me my dear Sir | Yours sincerely | Ch. Darwin.