ABSTRACT
A German Editor having written to him for an account of the development of his mind and character with some sketch of his autobiography, the author had thought that the attempt would amuse him, and might possibly interest his children or their children. Captain Fitz-Roy's character was a singular one, with very many noble features: he was devoted to his duty, generous to a fault, bold, determined, and indomitably energetic, and an ardent friend to all under his sway. On returning home from his short geological tour in North Wales, the author found a letter from John Stevens Henslow, informing him that Captain Fitz-Roy was willing to give up part of his own cabin to any young man who would volunteer to go with him without pay as naturalist to the Voyage of the Beagle. He prepared his Journal of the voyage of the Beagle for publication, and was busy with the various technical reports arising from the voyage.
