My dear Charles,

After you left me yesterday I found the note, which I had sought for unsuccessfully, touching the particular form of Atavism, in alternate generations.³

It was Burdach (whose name you well know) who described this result from averages largely taken.⁴ My note does not go beyond this mere fact; but having the name of the observer, you will be able easily to find further information, if the point is of any value to you.

When you happen to be in Town again, let me know it, that I may have the satisfaction of talking over with you many matters of fact & thought, on this most interesting & obscure of all subjects—the hereditary transmission of physical characters, of instincts, & of mental faculties.

Ever yours aff^y | H Holland