My Dear Sir

Judging from what you have told me from time to time about your new book, I sh^d not be surprised if you were in that state of forwardness—that you might allow me to announce it as a forthcoming publication in my next Quarterly List. If this sh^d turn out to be the case, I sh^d be obliged by your favoring me with a form of Title— if I am mistaken, & you are not nearly ready to go to press—I pray you to excuse me for thus troubling you, at least I shall understand silence to mean that the time has not yet come. I hope your health is good & think our Artists have executed well—the few woodcuts you have put in hand—²

I am my Dear Sir | Yours very faithfully | John Murray

Charles Darwin Esq