Now when naturalists observe a close agreement in numerous small details of habits, tastes and dispositions between two or more domestic races, or between nearly-allied natural forms, they use this fact as an argument that all are descended from a common progenitor who was thus endowed; and consequently that all should be classed under the same species. The same argument may be applied with much force to the races of man.

I feel like an old warhorse at the sound of a trumpet when I read about the capturing of rare beetles.

I have at least, as I hope, done good service in aiding to overthrow the dogma of separate creations.

This fundamental subject of Natural Selection will be treated at some length in the fourth chapter; and we shall then see how Natural Selection almost inevitably causes much Extinction of the less improved forms of life and induces what I have called Divergence of Character.

A surprising number [of novels] have been read aloud to me, and I like all if moderately good, and if they do not end unhappily-against which a law ought to be passed.

The age-old and noble thought of 'I will lay down my life to save another,' is nothing more than cowardice.

The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.