LETTEE TO HAEVEY 517 
nounced Darwin's book to be the most remarkable of its 
generation, and, though not conclusive as to its own ultimate 
views, to have thrown the doctrine of original creation of 
species to the Avinds — this is my view of the question. 
I really should like to have your opinion of what I have 
said on the subject ; as you have only such opinions of my 
Essay as Haughton's to judge by, and I do not feel com- 
pHmented by my friends' indifference to what I do, say, and 
think, though I am profoundly indifferent to the sneers 
and contempt I have received from the opposite side of the 
Channel and opposite side of your passage [the Irish Sea]. 
Asa Gray alone has treated me with candour and fairness ; 
all other Botanists are either indifferent, hostile, or con- 
temptuous. I venture to think that if you will read my 
Essay, and specially what I have said at p. xxiv (par. 34 and 
onwards to end of discussion) you will have a better opinion 
of my judgment and grounds for advocating Darwin than 
you now have. I do not suppose for a moment that any- 
thing I have said will alter your opinion of the main question, 
but I do think it may give you a higher opinion of the minds 
and consciences of your opponents, and at any rate prove 
to you that we may be earnest, truth-seeking, searching 
enquirers ; candid in the exposition of our difficulties and 
cautious advocates too. I do not ask your praise or approval, 
and shall be quite content if you will say whether you think 
what Asa Gray says is fair or not. 
One other point and I have done. I cannot bear your 
flinging away at Darwin and ignoring me ; not because my 
dignity is hurt ; not because you regard me as a mere 
disciple and copyist, but because we are both Botanists. 
I am sure fair generous friendship can stand any test ; we 
shall not quarrel ' for an idea,' however hotly we may argue 
it. I threw down the gauntlet in G. C. when you attacked 
him, Darwin, from a Botanical redoubt. 
Ever yours affectionately, 
Jos. D. Hooker. 
Kew : May 26, 1860. 
Dear Harvey, — I thank you much for your last letter, 
which gives me great hopes of our coming to a mutual agree- 
ment as to the legitimacy and propriety of the line of study 
Darwin has opened up. 
VOL. I 2 L 
