the species. In the case of multiple origins part of the difference was
produced under natural conditions. I should INFINITELY prefer the theory
of single origin in all cases, if facts would permit its reception. But
there seems to me some a priori improbability (seeing how fond savages are
of taming animals), that throughout all times, and throughout all the
world, that man should have domesticated one single species alone, of the
widely distributed genus Canis. Besides this, the close resemblance of at
least three kinds of American domestic dogs to wild species still
inhabiting the countries where they are now domesticated, seem to almost
compel admission that more than one wild Canis has been domesticated by
man.

I thank you cordially for all the generous zeal and interest you have shown
about my book, and I remain, my dear Lyell,

Your affectionate friend and disciple,
CHARLES DARWIN.

Sir J. Herschel, to whom I sent a copy, is going to read my book. He says
he leans to the side opposed to me. If you should meet him after he has
read me, pray find out what he thinks, for, of course, he will not write;
and I should excessively like to hear whether I produce any effect on such
a mind.


T.H. HUXLEY TO CHARLES DARWIN.
Jermyn Street W.,
November 23rd, 1859.

My dear Darwin,