Darwin Correspondence Project

40 West Abbey Road | Kilburn | N. W

27 Novr 1868

My Dear Marion

Will you inform Mr Darwin that the Footnote in the 3d Edn. of the ``Expression'', referring to the ``Nervous System'' p. 175, has reference to Sir Charles' Work—``On the Nervous System of the Human Body'' &c. 3d Edn. 1835.

The Introductory Chapter of the 2nd Edn. of the ``Expression'' (1824), having the sub-title ``Some account of the Nerves, as a foundation for the Study of Expression''— is the one thro' which Sir Charles had drawn his pen, when preparing the work, shortly before his death, (1842), for a third Edition.

From his leaving the title untouched, it was evident that he intended to re-write the Essay on the Nerves: And in my rashness, I thought that I could supply a substitute: Whence my Essay in the Appendix, of the 3d Edn. in 1844.

In 1847, when there was a re-issue of the work, I took the opportunity of Amending my Essay.

In 1860, I gave a similar, yet different, Account of the discoveries—to be prefixed to the 6th Edn. of the ``Hand.'' Imperfect as that may be, I look on it as a decided improvement on what I had furnished for the ``Expression'' in 1847.

Accordingly, when Bohn, about three years ago, was in treaty about the last Edn. of the ``Expression'', I wished to remodel and Amend my Essay—so as to make it bear more on the subject of the work. But he would not give me time.

I would have Amplified the topics at the bottom of p. 23. and top of p. 24. And I wd have said something about Beauty in the Face bearing relation to the forms best adapted for Voice, and for Expression.

That may come forth some other day—-When I have not so much else to do.

Yr. Affte | Alex Shaw.