Darwin Correspondence Project

Down Farnborough Kent

Aug. 24th

My dear Sir

You may remember that you gave me permission most generously to dissect all your specimens of Alcippe lampas, which I obtained by dissolving the shell: but I have one or two in spirits not cut up. Shall I return them? or can you spare them for Brit: Mus:? I may mention that Mr Bate has found Alcippe off Plymouth. I have some other specimens of yours not of much value, except one from Madeira. There is one, however, from Davis St. which I know is to be returned. I cd return the whole lot by Post, without I have to return the Bottles.— In this latter case is there anywhere in London, where parcels collect for you?—

Allow me to thank you cordially & truly for the very great pleasure I derived from examining Alcippe lampas, which is described in full in my volume, now printed, & I presume soon to be published by the Ray Socy— I have also discussed the excavating powers of Verruca, which subject I owe entirely to you. As there are several specs of the oxynaspis from Madeira, I have ventured to take 2 or 3 to give to Museums.

With my sincere thanks & with much respect, I remain | My dear Sir | Yours sincerely | Charles Darwin.