1735.1 TO JOHN BARTRAM. 71 



There are two captains, Richmond and Wright, whom I love 

 and esteem, and will take care of anything for me. If it is a 

 suitable time, send what thee canst per them. What is in casks, 

 or boxes, tell them I will pay freight for ; but little matters they 

 are so kind as to bring free. 



I am mightily pleased with thy account of the Sugar tree. 

 Pray send me a little sprig, with two or three leaves dried between 

 a sheet of paper, and if thee canst, the blossom. We imagine, 

 here, it is a Poplar or Maple ; but when we see the flower, or seed- 

 vessel, we shall soon determine. 



******* 



My valuable friend, John White, who is curious in our way, 

 carried over the best collection of Pears that I believe ever came 

 from England. If they come safe, and thrive, at my desire he will 

 oblige thee with buds, or scions, at proper seasons. Pray wait on 

 him with my respects, and ask the favour. 



As for Plums, Nectarines, and Apricots, I may send thee some 

 grafts in the spring ; but it is my firm opinion, if they was budded 

 or grafted on Peach or Almonds, which are stocks that produce 

 the juices freer than any other, they would succeed much better. 

 I should be glad thee'd try, that I may know the event. 



If the frost has such an effect on your vines, which I could 

 scarcely believe in so south a latitude to us, you must do as they 

 do in Germany. When the frosts set in, dig holes round the vines, 

 and lay the last year's shoots in and cover them with earth, to 

 preserve from the frosts ; and at spring take them up again, and 

 then prune them for bearing. I am glad to hear that the Medlar 

 grows. It is the large Neapolitan sort, which produces a large 

 fruit. Doctor Witt, at Germantown, wants it much. I sent him 

 some at the same time ; but whether he has any luck, I can't tell. 



I shall be careful to send the seeds thee mentions, and what 

 others I can collect. 



My kind friend, I heartily wish thee and thy good wife health 

 and prosperity. I am thy real friend, 



P. COLLINSON. 



I have not seen my garden for near two months, having been a 

 long journey into Cornwall and Devonshire ; so that what condition 

 thy fine plants are in, I can't say. 



