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.