My dear Sir

I have at last got my “Record” off my hands & will now resume Fritz Müller.—¹ I should think he will be finished in a fortnight.— Shall I send the copy to you as it is finished, or to M^r. Murray?—² I suppose if I mark the numbers of the woodcuts, the printers will be able to identify them,³—some of them are rather too complicated to be easily sketched upon the copy.—

I heard last week that M^r. Jenkins, the Assistant Secretary to the Geological Society is canvassing for the Secretaryship to the Agricultural Society & that he stands a good chance of success—⁴ Should he get the appointment, I intend making a strong push for his post at the Geological Society & my friends tell me that I should stand a very good chance.— I saw Huxley & one or two other members of the Council when I was in town last week,⁵ & they are very well-disposed towards me, but I wish to secure as many friends in the matter as I can & I therefore venture to write to you to ask you if you will use your influence in my behalf, & when the time for action comes give me a testimonial.—

I am but very slightly acquainted with Sir Charles Lyell, who is one of the Council, & I should think a word from you at the proper time would serve me with him.—

Believe me | My dear Sir | Your’s very truly | W. S. Dallas.

Cha^s Darwin Esq. F.R.S. | &c &c &c