104 THE UNFINISHED BOOK. [1857. 



what the result of calculation on the right principle is. I am 



the most miserable, bemuddled, stupid dog in all England, 



and am ready to cry with vexation at my blindness and 



presumption. 



Ever yours, most miserably, 



C. Darwin. 



C. Darwin to John Lubbock. 



Down, [July] 14th [1857]. 



My DEAR Lubbock, You have done me the greatest 

 possible service in helping me to clarify my brains. If I am 

 as muzzy on all subjects as I am on proportion and chance, 

 what a book I shall produce ! 



I have divided the New Zealand Flora as you suggested. 

 There are 339 species in genera of 4 and upwards, and 323 in 

 genera of 3 and less. 



The 339 species have 51 species presenting one or more 

 varieties. The 323 species have only 37. Proportionately 

 (339 : 3 2 3 :: 5 1 : 48'S) they ought to have had 48J species 

 presenting vars. So that the case goes as I want it, but not 

 strong enough, without it be general, for me to have much 

 confidence in. I am quite convinced yours is the right way : 

 I had thought of it, but should never have done it had it not 

 been for my most fortunate conversation with you. 



I am quite shocked to find how easily I am muddled, for I 

 had before thought over the subject much, and concluded my 

 way was fair. It is dreadfully erroneous. 



What a disgraceful blunder you have saved me from. I 



heartily thank you. 



Ever yours, 



C. Darwin. 



P.S. It is enough to make me tear up all my MS. and 

 give up in despair. 



It will take me several weeks to go over all my materials. 

 But oh, if you knew how thankful I am to you ! 



