My dear Huxley

I have been asked by some of your friends (eighteen in number) to inform you that they have placed through Robarts, Lubbock & Co the sum of 2100£ to your account at your bankers. We have done this to enable you to get such complete rest as you may require for the reestablishment of your health; & in doing this we are convinced that we act for the public interest, as well as in accordance with our most earnest desires. Let me assure you that we are all your warm personal friends, & that there is not a stranger or mere acquaintance amongst us.¹

If you could have heard what was said, or could have read what was, as I believe, our inmost thoughts, you would know that we all feel towards you, as we should to an honoured & much loved brother.² I am sure that you will return this feeling, & will therefore be glad to give us the opportunity of aiding you in some degree, as this will be a happiness to us to the last day of our lives. Let me add that our plan occurred to several of your friends at nearly the same time & quite independently of one another.

My dear Huxley | Your affectionate friend | Charles Darwin