This probable fracas between the 2 Geographers distresses me, for they are almost the only 2 men who have looked on British Flora with the eyes of philosophers.² Watson in particular ranks in my opinion at the very head of English Botanists, whether for knowledge of species or of their distribution; he first wrote philosophically upon them & his works are of the highest order.

Unfortunately he is touchy & very severe when first offended, though he never holds a grudge long.

I need hardly ask what you are about, as my Proof sheets come from Reeves enveloped with cabalistic diagrams, all your own—which I doubt not belong to the Geology of S. America.³ When that work is over you will I suppose attack Species as you have long promised I wish you joy of the task: & shall be very glad to know your views— I have done all of Edmonstones Galapago plants that have been received,⁴ but understand that these are only duplicates of a much fuller collection not yet received. As it is, they modify the results drawn from the xamination of previous collections materially; there being more Guayaquil species amongst them.

I have at last finished down to the Ferns of Flor. Ant. & begun the Cryptog. I am ready on my return to send you a return of the species identical & representative inhabiting N. temperate & Antarctic regions. I hope you get your numbers regularly from Reeves; but he is not the most regular of publishers. This winter I shall (entre nous) bilk the Survey & work at home. My address is as above, where I shall be for a week or 10 days,⁵ longing to hear how you all are & what about

Ever my dear Darwin | Most truly yrs. | Jos D Hooker.