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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.

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Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1.XI. — THE GROWTH OF THE 'ORIGIN OF SPECIES.'

work I have not felt conscious that disbelieving in the mere PERMANENCE of species has made much difference one way or the other; in some few cases (if publishing avowedly on doctrine of non-permanence), I should NOT have affixed names, and in some few cases should have affixed names to remarkable varieties. Certainly I have felt it humiliating, discussing and doubting, and examining over and over again, when in my own mind the only doubt has been whether the form varied TO-DAY OR YESTERDAY (not to put too fine a point on it, as Snagsby (In 'Bleak House.') would say). After describing a set of forms as distinct species, tearing up my MS., and making them one species, tearing that up and making them separate, and then making them one again (which has happened to me), I have gnashed my teeth, cursed species, and asked what sin I had committed to be so punished. But I must confess that perhaps nearly the same thing would have happened to me on any scheme of work.

I am heartily glad to hear your Journal (Sir J.D. Hooker's 'Himalayan Journal.') is so much advanced; how

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