1737.] TO JOHN BARTRAM. 97 



2. 12s. 6d. Had thee a thought on this, thee would have packed 

 some things closer. To give thee an idea of the charge, I shall 

 inclose a freight bill, in which the captain has charged primage to 

 every parcel, which is not customary ; hut that depends on an 

 agreement made in the bill of loading. Next cargo, I shall beg 

 the assistance of our friend Israel Pemberton, or Joseph Breint- 

 jSTALL, to make the agreement in the bill of loading for thee. 



If another time thee sends any growing plants, a great many 

 may be packed close together in a case two feet square, or two 

 feet wide, and three long. As to thy care of the names, it does 

 not much signify ; for when I see them grow, or flower, can soon 

 distinguish them. 



I hope thee will take these friendly hints in good part, as it is 

 intended. I am with much love, 



Thy sincere friend, 



P. Colllnson. 



The fine white Lady's Slippers have not 

 flowered. We have had an unkindly spring, which has kept the 

 plants back ; but most, if not all, seem alive, except the flowering 

 Shrub. I must say, I never saw plants taken up with more judg- 

 ment, and come better. But great allowance must be made for 

 difference in climate, soil, and seasons. We want a little more of 

 your heat, at this season of the year, for your country plants ; and 

 yet some sorts grow and thrive as well as in their own country. 

 The Marsh Martagon is going to flower very strongly. Pray look 

 out for two or three roots of yellow-flowering Lady's Slipper : mine 

 begins to decline. 



I presume thee continues thy resolution for thy intended pro- 

 gress through the lower counties to the Capes, and then round the 

 Eastern Shore of Maryland home. But if thee thinks thee can do 

 better nearer home, then save thyself that trouble. 



Variety of acorns are wanting. I refer thee to my other letters, 

 as to other particulars. 



I hope thou have mine, and the things, by our friend Robert 

 Grace, who has taken some pains to make himself master of flux- 

 ing metals. He will be able to give our friend Wolley some 

 satisfaction as to the richness and quality of his ores. I have 

 shown them to a knowing man, who has given me his opinion of 



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