Darwin is sent a specimen
150 years ago today, on 2nd November, 1859, the publisher John Murray wrote to Charles Darwin in Ilkley:
By this day’s post I send you a specimen copy of your book bound— I hope it may receive your approval. Please reply by return & not a moment shall be lost in getting ready the early copies—your instructions seem quite clear & shall be carefully followed.
The book in question was, of course, On the Origin of Species.
The following day, Darwin replied to Murray:
I am infinitely pleased & proud at the appearance of my child.
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