02-Nov-1859: Darwin is infinitely pleased with his ‘child’

On 2nd November 1859, the publisher John Murray wrote to Charles Darwin in Ilkley:

By this day’s post I send you a specimen copy of your book bound—I hope it may receive your approval. Please reply by return & not a moment shall be lost in getting ready the early copies—your instructions seem quite clear & shall be carefully followed.

The book in question was, of course, On the Origin of Species.

The following day, Darwin replied to Murray:

I am infinitely pleased & proud at the appearance of my child.

Richard Carter, FCD

Writer and photographer Richard Carter, FCD is the founder of the Friends of Charles Darwin. He lives in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire.WebsiteNewsletterMastodonetc…

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