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nydus/Life and Letters of Charles Darwin — Volume 1Public

This volume presents a collection of Charles Darwin's personal correspondence, organized primarily by the subjects of his research and publications. The letters are supplemented by excerpts from his diary to provide a chronological framework for his professional career and personal character.

Page 220 of 696
Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1.V. — THE APPOINTMENT TO THE 'BEAGLE.'

The danger appears to me and all the Wedgwoods not great. The expense cannot be serious, and the time I do not think, anyhow, would be more thrown away then if I stayed at home. But pray do not consider that I am so bent on going that I would for one SINGLE MOMENT hesitate, if you thought that after a short period you should continue uncomfortable.

I must again state I cannot think it would unfit me hereafter for a steady life. I do hope this letter will not give you much uneasiness. I send it by the car to-morrow morning; if you make up your mind directly will you send me an answer on the following day by the same means? If this letter should not find you at home, I hope you will answer as soon as you conveniently can.

I do not know what to say about Uncle Jos' kindness; I never can forget how he interests himself about me.

Believe me, my dear father, Your affectionate son, CHARLES DARWIN.

[Here follows the list of objections which are referred to in the following letter:—

  1. Disreputable to my character as a Clergyman hereafter.
  1. A wild scheme.
  1. That they must have offered to many others before me the place of Naturalist.
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