My dear Sir

I wrote some time ago to say so many sheets were ready to print off. Now up to p. 240 (& 72 more as good as ready) are ready.— I sh^d. like to hear how many copies you think adviseable to print off.—¹

When you write will you be so kind as to say how early in the autumn you will permit the publication of my volume: for reasons before assigned I am anxious for as little delay as possible. If my health does not fail again, I surely shall finish correcting by end of September; & there will then be only short index.— I wish partly to know about time of publication, on account of leaving home for some months immediately last proof is finished, & I might perhaps do index from home.—

One more question, & I have done; would there be any objection to my distributing my private copies (from 40 to 80 according to cost) as soon as they are printed off, or do you not like this slight forestalling?² Forgive the trouble. It has been a bitter disappointment to me having caused such delay in getting my Book ready.—

My dear Sir | Yours very sincerely | C. Darwin