My dear Sir

I should for many reasons be very glad to oblige you in any way. But to come to you to be photographed would certainly lose me two whole days & probably three.² Nor, owing to my health, would it be at all certain if I came to London that I sh^d. be able to go to you next morning.— I really cannot spare so much time, with the chance of subsequent unwellness.— I am very sorry but so it must be. I have already refused some half dozen requests, but none with a quarter of the regret that this causes me.—

If you think it worth while (which I much doubt) to come here, I shall be very glad to do all I can to aid you.— You can, if you like sleep here. Orpington Station (on the S.E.R. Charing Cross) is 4 miles from my house, & I could send a vehicle for you & probably also send you back. Or if your time is precious you could start early in morning & be here in very good time.— We could fit up a small dark closet, in which my son formerly photographed.³ Even if your photograph was not first rate, no one would probably detect it.— But you could easily get to 16 good men, without taking so much trouble for me.—⁴ I can only repeat my regret, & say that here I shall be most happy to do anything I can which you may require.—

My dear Sir | Yours very faithfully | Ch. Darwin

P.S If you decide to come, please let me hear.—