58 SPREAD OF EVOLUTION. [l866. 



observed like you have done. As you are so kind, I will 

 mention one other point on which I am collecting facts ; 

 namely, the effect produced on the stock by the graft ; thus, 

 it is said, that the purple-leaved filbert affects the leaves of 

 the common hazel on which it is grafted (I have just procured 

 a plant to try), so variegated jessamine is said to affect 

 its stock. I want these facts partly to throw light on the 

 marvellous laburnums, Adami-trifacial oranges, &c. That 

 laburnum case seems one of the strangest in physiology. 

 I have now growing splendid, fertile, yellow laburnums (with 

 a long raceme like the so-called Waterer's laburnum) from 

 seed of yellow flowers on the C. Adami. To a man like 

 myself, who is compelled to live a solitary life, and sees 

 few persons, it is no slight satisfaction to hear that I have 

 been able at all [to] interest by my books observers like 

 yourself. 



As I shall publish on my present subject, I presume, 

 within a year, it will be of no use your sending me the shoots 

 of peaches and nectarines which you so kindly offer ; I have 

 recorded your facts. 



Permit me again to thank you cordially ; I have not often 

 in my life received a kinder letter. 



My dear Sir, yours sincerely, 



Ch. Darwin. 



