My dear Hooker

I thank you cordially for your advice. I never for a moment expected that Frank would be elected until 2 or 3 years had elapsed; for I know that even such men as Bates were not soon elected.—¹

The wish to be proposed now was wholly my doing; as Frank himself thought it would be better to wait. To save you trouble I enclose a list of Franks papers, which he has just drawn up at my request, & which perhaps you will be so good as to return hereafter.—

I will follow your advice whatever it may be.

Perhaps I had better get some younger man to propose him, if he is to be proposed.² I daresay, however, it would be better to wait.

I again thank you very truly | Ever yours | C. Darwin

I need hardly add that if he is proposed & whoever proposes-him, I would send round the certificate for other signatures.—