Madam

D^r. Lindley has told me that he thought that your Ladyship would be willing, if in your power, to assist me.—² I am preparing for publication a small work “on the various contrivances by which Orchids are fertilised.” I much wish to examine a few more exotic forms, & if you happen to have those which I wish to see, possibly your Ladyship would be so generous as to send me two or three flowers. I am aware that it would be a remote chance that your Ladyship should possess or spare these flowers. I chiefly want any member of the great Tribe of Arethuseæ, which includes the Limodoridæ, Vanillidæ &c.

Mormodes & Cycnoches are especial desiderata, though they would be most difficult to send, as the pollen-masses move or explode when the end of the column is touched. I, also, want much Bonatea, Masdevallia & any Bolbophyllum with its lower lip or Labellum irritable. Indeed any genus with any remarkable peculiarity would be most gratefully received.—

I have much reason to apologise for thus intruding on your Ladyship; & I am far from expecting that your Ladyship will reply to this note, if you cannot assist me.—³ I will only add that for a parcel too large for the post, my quickest address is “C. Darwin care of the Down Postman Bromley Kent”. I find that orchids travel safest in tin boxes or cannisters with a little damp paper.—

With many apologies, I have the honour to remain | Your Ladyships | Obedient servant | Charles Darwin