My dear Sir

I see by the Annals. of Nat. History, you have changed your abode;¹ I further see that the change has not at all induced a change in your Natural History pursuits.— I write for the chance of your being able to assist me: I am investigating the slight powers of excavation which Verruca strömia (= Clisia striata) possesses; & I am am anxious to obtain specimens, either dry or wet, attached to rocks or other substances (excepting Laminariæ or seaweeds) non calcareous & some (almost equally valuable to me) on limestone rocks for comparison.

The only very few specimens which I have hitherto seen on any rocks, came from Devonshire. Can you aid me? I believe you will kindly be willing to do so, if in your power.—²

Pray believe me, My dear Sir | Yours sincerely | Charles Darwin

Have you continued your interesting researches on the metamorphoses of the Cirripedia?—³