Dear Sir

I am very much obliged for your note. I have always understood the agreement with M^r Colburn² to signify, that he was not to have the power of publishing a second edition, except in conjunction with a second edition of Capt^s. King & FitzRoy, (which is an extremely improbable event); & I am almost certain, from several circumstances that this was the sense in which M^r Colburn really meant it to be understood. But of course I must abide by the letter of the agreement, & of this you must be a far better judge than myself.—

My only objection to the Colonial Library is the great requisite reduction; I presume you have calculated that not more than 15 must be reduced; though I am doubtful, whether when every fifth page is struck out, it will be possible to keep its present character of a mixture of science & Journal & I presume you would wish the scientific part to be chiefly sacrificed: however, I am a full believer, that it is hardly possible to reduce too much & perhaps I may find it easier than I expect.— I will consult on this, my excellent & kind friend & adviser M^r Lyell.—

I write now to ask, whether you would so far greatly oblige me, as to negotiate with M^r Colburn,³ which I particularly dislike & sh^d do badly.— if you have any great objection I must write myself & I w^d take the liberty of showing you my letter: it occurs that, as my Journal w^d be reduced, & as my volume is required by M^r Colburn to complete the sets of the three volumes of the General Work he would perhaps be willing to allow the second edition, for some not large sum of ready money from me, without purchasing those of mine unsold.— if purchased I sh^d. not know what to do with them.—

As I have never received one penny from M^r Colburn, I have some claim on him, & I think mere shame w^d prevent him being rigid with me; though that is a weak hold on such a man.— Would you kindly let me hear from you on this latter subject pretty soon, & sincerely apologising for the trouble I give you.

I remain Dear Sir | Yours very faithfully | C. Darwin

P.S. | In case you should be unwilling to enter into the negotiation for me with M^r Colburn, I enclose a draft of the letter, I sh^d then propose to send to him: I daresay it is a very impolitic one, & I trust you will be so kind, as to give me your opinion on it with entire freedom,—criticising the whole or any part.—

To | J. Murray Esq^e—