It is not to be supposed that one could occupy one’s self with the animals for so long without coming to some conclusion as to their systematic place, however subsidiary to observation such considerations must always be regarded, and it seems to me (although on such matters I can of course only speak with the greatest hesitation) that just as the more minute and careful observations made upon the old “Vermes” of Linnaeus necessitated the breaking up of that class into several very distinct classes, so more careful investigation requires the breaking up of Cuvier’s “Radiata” (which succeeded the “Vermes” as a sort of zoological lumber-room) into several very distinct and well-defined new classes, of which the Acalephae, Hydrostatic Acalephae, actinoid and hydroid polypes, will form one.  But I fear that I am trespassing beyond the limits of a letter.  I have only wished to state what I have done in order that you may judge concerning the propriety or impropriety of what I propose to do.  And I trust that you will not think that I am presuming too much upon your kindness if I take the liberty of thus asking your advice about my own affairs.  In truth, I feel in a manner responsible to you for the use of the appointment you procured for me; and furthermore, Captain Stanley’s unfortunate decease has left the interests of the ship in general and my own in particular without a representative.

Can you inform me, then, what chance I should have either (1) of procuring a grant for the publication of my papers, or (2) should that not be feasible, to obtain a nominal appointment (say to the “Fisguard” at Woolwich, as in Dr. Hooker’s case) for such time as might be requisite for the publication of my papers and drawings in some other way?

I shall see Professors Owen and Forbes when I reach London, and I have a letter of introduction to Sir John Herschel (who has, I hear, a great penchant for the towing-net).  Supposing I could do so, would it be of any use to procure recommendations from them that my papers should be published?

[[Half-erased] To Sir F. Beaufort also I have a letter.] Would it not be proper also to write to Sir W. Burnett acquainting him with my views, and requesting his acquiescence and assistance?

Begging an answer at your earliest convenience, addressed either to the “Rattlesnake” or to my brother, I remain, your obedient servant,

T.H.  Huxley.

41 North Bank.

[He received a most friendly reply from “Old John.”  He was willing to do all in his power to help, but could recommend Government aid better if he had seen the drawings.  Meantime a certificate should be got from Forbes, the best man in this particular branch of science, backed, if possible, by Owen.  He would speak to some officials himself, and give Huxley introductions to others, and if he could get up to town, would try to see the collections and add his name to the certificate.

Both Forbes and Owen were ready to help.  The former wrote a most encouraging letter, singling out the characteristics which gave a peculiar value to these papers:—­