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Yeah ... I know this is a quote conglomeration --- big deal (( fed case )) to the trivia - psuedo science cult FR freeks (( vs freeps )) !

Just from memory, I don't think the quote is that badly butchered. Darwin -- despite the great confidence that he had developed in his theory over years of private study and contemplation, subjecting his ideas to rigorous self-criticism (there wasn't a single substantive critcism of his ideas that he had not, in some form, already considered and thought through) -- was typically hesitant, apologetic and understated in introducing his ideas to others.

There had been, and were at the time, many fatuous and overblown speculations on subjects such as the nature and origin of species, earth/cosmic history, and the like. Darwin didn't want to be classified with such dilletantes. He had a carefully constructed and sober case for his views, and the chance that it would be fairly considered was better if the initial presentation was "toned down".