1757.] T0 JOHN BARTRAM. 213 



being palmated, agrees nearly with the Irish fossil-horns perhaps 

 the same animal. * * * 



I don't know how to distinguish between his Raccoon and his 

 Jackal. Are they all one ? or is there with you, the two distinct 

 animals, as in other countries of the world ? 



I presume they must have mistook a panther for a lion, espe- 

 cially a she lion. But lions are never found in such cold cli- 

 mates. 



* * # # 



The Tyrian Dye was collected from a vein found in a species of 

 * ; and I know some other fish beside his scarlet muscle, 

 that has the red vein, that will stain linen effectually ; but being 

 so long gathering a quantity to dye a cloak or mantle, made it of 

 such value as only to array princes. But the discovery of cochi- 

 neal reduced the price so, that every common person can wear 

 scarlet. 



Does he not exaggerate in his article of frogs a foot high ? His 

 rattlesnake vapour shows him to be a vapourer. 



* * * * 



He seems enamoured with the young Indian nymphs. What 

 sayeth thee to these originals in their native dress ? Have they 

 ever been able to charm an Englishman, as they do the French, 

 who are not so delicate ? 



As thou loves curiosities and novelties, I herewith send thee a 

 book will let thee see the notions of a virtuoso, about one hundred 

 years agone. 



* * * * 



I was so extremely pleased with thy letter to Phil. Miller, 

 that I had it copied. My observations on it are lost. 



I have lately had a letter from Doctor LiNNiEUS ; and he gives 

 his service, and desired me not to forget to tell thee with what re- 

 spect Dr. P. Kalm mentions thee in his books of travels in your 

 country and Canada. There are only two books published. 



* * * * 



Our friend Neve carefully delivered Billy's drawings, which 

 are very elegant, and much admired. I am glad he has found out 

 that he may be in a way to rise in the world. Probably there may 

 be, at times, some leisure hours in which he may divert himself in 

 his favourite amusement ; so have sent him the best books we have 

 extant, by which he may improve himself. * * 



