Darwin writes that the cat exhibition might provide information on unusual breeds of cats and their inheritance. He also expresses interest in deafnes Show moreDarwin writes that the cat exhibition might provide information on unusual breeds of cats and their inheritance. He also expresses interest in deafness of white, blue-eyed cats. Transcription: "July 17" Down, Beckenham, Kent. My dear Sir With every wish to offer any assistance, I really know but what to suggest. I believe that you do encourage the exhibition of any breed from outlandish countries. I have heard of a curious breed [] short time from some part of Africa + odd-coloured breeds in the [] Island of the Pacific. A considerable number of persons have felt a strong interest in the odd case of [], to which I first called public attention, fis the entirely white cat with [] eyes are draft. if one eye always is blue the ear on the same side is deaf. Mr. [] has lately published a statement that this holds good only with male cats. Possibly you might make a [] class for "white cats of any breed, with both eyes or one alone blue" offer a [] for the best; though Heaven knkow which shd be called best. You might request a statement whether it is known that they are deaf; + the sexes [] by [] when the cats are sent. This would really be a curious [] + wd without some considerable number of people. I wish I could anything else + []. yours vy faithfully Ch. Darwin The hereditary character of the 6-toed cats would be worth []." Letter sent from Down, Beckenham, Kent, England The Robert M. Stecher Collection of Charles Darwin Books and Manuscripts Show less
