My dear Sir

I thank you much for your note. The object, of course, is what you say.² I did not guess that I sh^d have to pay so much per Hen to Baker & the experiment would not be at all worth such a sum. I have not a single Hen worth sending to Steven’s.³

If it really will not cost you much trouble, & you could get me some Hens & a young Spanish cock of pure breeds, but not very good birds for 10^s each or under, I will try to experiment & shall be very heartily obliged to you.

Our Carrier came up on Thursday & I enclose envelope if you will post it on Tuesday before general post, & add address of your poultry man, where you can pay for keeping the fowls for a day & porterage.

I have silver Laced Poland Hen. of one Breed, & I sh^d wish for say $\frac{1}{2}$ dozen Hens of other breeds, before specified & Spanish Cock.

Many thanks about Kidney Beans, but I had this var. this year in my garden. I saw & read the good Review of your Book.—⁴

You really are most goodnatured in assisting me.—

In Haste | Yours very sincerely | C. Darwin

Pray when you see M^r. H. Weir, do not forget to ask whether his Silver Barbs had black wing bars, & white rumps or bar at end of tail.—⁵

of course you shall hear result of crossing fowls.—