Darwin, C. R. to Agassiz, J. L. R.
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Sends copy of Origin.
Summary Add
Transcription
Down Bromley Kent [Ilkley]
Nov. 11
My dear Sir
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 conclusion, for having earnestly endeavoured to arrive at the truth.
With sincere respect, I beg leave to remain | Yours very faithfully | Charles Darwin
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- f1 2519.f1
Agassiz's presentation copy of Origin is in the Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University. It was extensively annotated by Agassiz. - +
- f2 2519.f2
Agassiz held the view that species were created en masse in the locations they currently inhabit. He had corresponded with CD since 1841 and had, in 1858, presented him with a copy of his own views on species, the first part of Agassiz 1857–62. CD's annotated copy is in the Darwin Library–CUL.