HO PETER COLLINSON [1737-8. 



selves, in a state of sleep, the air supplies the vital flame ; and as 

 chickens are for some time supported by some part of the yolk in 

 their stomachs, in order to sustain them while the remainder of the 

 brood is hatching (for if the hen was to leave her charge to go and 

 provide food for those first hatched, what must become of the 

 remaining eggs ?) ; so I conclude, as these are oviparous, or pro- 

 duced from eggs, something of the same proA r ision is prepared to 

 support them till next spring. If they were to be all the while in 

 motion and action, it would not be sufficient, but as they soon 

 enter into a dormant state, it may be sufficient to preserve life. I 

 could be glad to see a larger one of this sort of land turtle dried, 

 to compare with those I have by me. 



All the other pretty curiosities were very acceptable. As for 

 thy kind offer of squirrel skins, I would be far from rejecting it, if 

 it would cost thee nothing ; but to give anything, I am no ways 

 free for thee to do it, for I presume it is more matter of curiosity, 

 than really better than other skins. The shells, with the likeness 

 of large snails, are peculiar to your part of the world, but the 

 small scallop, found on East Jersey, are found at New and Old 

 England. But the present is not the less esteemed, because it 

 shows the produce of your shores. 



I am persuaded not one of the red-bellied turtles is hatched. I 

 should be glad to see one of these dry. The Panax is a choice 

 plant. 



I am thine, 



P. COLLINSON. 



January 27, 1737-8. 



Dear Friend: 



I had the pleasure of thine from Maryland. I am glad my 

 friends were kind to thee, and that thee found fresh matter of 

 entertainment. I can't enlarge now, but to tell thee that all the 

 two boxes of seeds, two boxes of plants, one box specimens, one 

 box wasp's nest, came all safe, and in perfect good order; which 

 is very pleasing, and for which I shall make thee some returns, per 

 Captain Wright, with all the goods thee mentions except the 

 sewing silk, which is advanced to two shillings a pound. It is 

 expected to be cheaper; and unless it is, neither thee nor I shall 



