My dear Häckel

I received a letter 2 days ago from M^r. Rothenburg of Glasgow, telling me of your scheme, which seems to me an excellent one & I most heartily hope may be carried out.¹ You will see that I am away from home, but shall return home on July 3^d.— As soon as I heard of your scheme, I wrote to Huxley, who as Sec^y. of R. Soc^y. would have much influence about the Grant.² Some year or two ago I expressed to several persons my opinion that a part of the Grant could not be better used than in aiding Biologists with some special purpose to visit any distant country; so you may believe that I would aid you in any way in my power.— I fear (but do not know) that all the Grants have been distributed for the current year.—³ I do not know anything about the funds of the British Assoc; but fear that they are not large. If these sources of supply fail, will you forgive me for proposing to subscribe 100^£, in aid of your undertaking for the sake of Science? If you would accept my offer, it would give me very great pleasure.—

I wanted rest & a change, for I feel very old, so we have been staying in this most beautiful county for 3 weeks. I have done nothing all this time but admire the scenery & read the newspapers!

With all good wishes believe me, | My dear Häckel | Yours very sincerely | Charles Darwin