I have sent to you by the "Duke of York" packet, commanded by Lieut.

Snell, to Falmouth two large casks containing fossil bones, a small cask with fish and a box containing skins, spirit bottle, etc., and pill-boxes with beetles.

Would you be kind enough to open these latter as they are apt to become mouldy.

With the exception of the bones the rest of my collection looks very scanty.
Recollect how great a proportion of time is spent at sea.

I am always anxious to hear in what state the things come and any criticisms about quantity or kind of specimens.