P.S. to letter written and posted this morning—

Here is bad news: Mr. Farrer forwards letter from Mr. Caird, that he finds his agricultural friends are so poor from low rents that they are little inclined to subscribe; and Mr. Caird cannot pledge himself for £75.²

On the other hand my brother E. A. Darwin of 6 Queen Anne St. will subscribe £25 and my brother-in-law H. Wedgwood of 31 Queen Anne St. will subscribe £10—so you are sure of £110 and I cannot doubt something from Mr. Caird.³ Mr. Wedgwood wants me to write to the Times stating that I believe your scheme is a hopeful one and giving a sketch of it—stating what subscriptions are promised and saying that I would receive others for the object. I dislike the thought of doing this, but should be glad to hear what you think of it. If you approve I will try and screw up my courage, but would first consult Mr. Farrer (who unfortunately has left London to-day) and in this case pray give me a few particulars for how many generations have you in any case selected? Do the later generations appear freer of the disease than the earlier generations? Can you advance any evidence with names and addresses of agriculturalists or market gardeners who saw your plants growing and the tubers? My memory has grown rather uncertain and I dare not trust it. Any report had better be as short as possible. I am very tired and can write no more

C. Darwin

I do not promise to write to the Times.