I have stated in the preface to the first Edition of this work,
and in the Zoology of the Voyage of the Beagle, that it was in
consequence of a wish expressed by Captain Fitz Roy, of having
some scientific person on board, accompanied by an offer from him
of giving up part of his own accommodations, that I volunteered
my services, which received, through the kindness of the hydrographer,
Captain Beaufort, the sanction of the Lords of the Admiralty.
As I feel that the opportunities which I enjoyed of studying the
Natural History of the different countries we visited, have been
wholly due to Captain Fitz Roy, I hope I may here be permitted
to repeat my expression of gratitude to him; and to add that, during
the five years we were together, I received from him the most cordial
friendship and steady assistance.
Both to Captain Fitz Roy and to all the Officers of the Beagle
[1] I shall ever feel most thankful for the undeviating kindness
with which I was treated during our long voyage.
