long discussion, but merely for a brief idea of your general impression.
From your widely extended knowledge, habit of investigating the truth, and
abilities, I should value your opinion in the very highest rank. Though I,
of course, believe in the truth of my own doctrine, I suspect that no
belief is vivid until shared by others. As yet I know only one believer,
but I look at him as of the greatest authority, viz., Hooker. When I think
of the many cases of men who have studied one subject for years, and have
persuaded themselves of the truth of the foolishest doctrines, I feel
sometimes a little frightened, whether I may not be one of these mono-
maniacs.

Again pray excuse this, I fear, unreasonable request. A short note would
suffice, and I could bear a hostile verdict, and shall have to bear many a
one.

Yours very sincerely,
C. DARWIN.


CHARLES DARWIN TO J.D. HOOKER.
Ilkley, Yorkshire,
Sunday [November 1859].

My dear Hooker,

I have just read a review on my book in the "Athenaeum" (November 19,
1859.), and it excites my curiosity much who is the author. If you should
hear who writes in the "Athenaeum" I wish you would tell me. It seems to
me well done, but the reviewer gives no new objections, and, being hostile,
passes over every single argument in favour of the doctrine,...I fear from