Summary

Writes of the pleasure all feel in CD’s continued good health and joy in his voyage.

Tells of the banana tree he bought, which he sits under and thinks of CD "in similar shade".

CD’s financial accounts are correct.

Summary

Thanks JSH for copies of "Extracts from letters addressed to Professor Henslow by C. Darwin, Esq." [privately printed for Cambridge Philosophical Society; Collected papers 1: 3–16].

The family is sensible how much CD owes to JSH, and RWD is highly gratified by CD’s success.

Summary

RWD’s happiness that Emma has accepted CD’s proposal of marriage.

Summary

CD has had an offer to go on a voyage of discovery for two years. RWD objects strongly, but will let CD make his case and if JW agrees with CD, RWD will change his position. In a postscript RWD adds, "Charles has quite given up … the voyage."

Summary

RWD had made up his mind to give up his objection to the Beagle voyage if JW did not take the same view. If Charles continues to want to go after further inquiry, will give him every assistance.

Summary

The family gardener reports on seeds he has gathered. RWD transmits the letter.

Summary

Send their thanks to JSH for allowing them to see the two letters, one written ten days later than any they have received.