for 1850 (28/1. The invitation was probably not for 1850, but for 1851,
when the Association met at Ipswich.): if I am made well and strong, most
gladly will I accept it; but as I have been hitherto, a drive every day of
half a dozen miles would be more than I could stand with attending any of
the sections. I intend going to Birmingham (28/2. The Association met at
Birmingham in 1849.) if able; indeed, I am bound to attempt it, for I am
honoured beyond all measure in being one of the Vice-Presidents. I am
uncommonly glad you will be there; I fear, however, we shall not have any
such charming trips as Nuneham and Dropmore. (28/3. In a letter to Hooker
(October 12th, 1849) Darwin speaks of "that heavenly day at Dropmore."
("Life and Letters," I., page 379.)) We shall stay here till at least June
1st, perhaps till July 1st; and I shall have to go on with the aqueous
treatment at home for several more months. One most singular effect of the
treatment is that it induces in most people, and eminently in my case, the
most complete stagnation of mind. I have ceased to think even of
barnacles! I heard some time since from Hooker...How capitally he seems to
have succeeded in all his enterprises! You must be very busy now. I
happened to be thinking the other day over the Gamlingay trip to the Lilies
of the Valley (28/4. The Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is
recorded from Gamlingay by Professor Babington in his "Flora of
Cambridgeshire," page 234. (London, 1860.)): ah, those were delightful
days when one had no such organ as a stomach, only a mouth and the
masticating appurtenances. I am very much surprised at what you say, that
men are beginning to work in earnest [at] Botany. What a loss it will be
for Natural History that you have ceased to reside all the year in
Cambridge!


LETTER 29. TO J.F. ROYLE.
Down, September 1st [184-?].