278 PETER COLLINSON [1766. 



pletely saturated with petrifying matter, that it is become real 

 stone. 



It is a very fine discovery, the finding that species of stone, 

 for the mills, for we are obliged to have all our stones that 

 grind wheat from France. * * 



Amongst the millions [of fossil remains] that thou observes, 

 are all over the country, I dare say they are found of different 

 shapes and sizes, which may determine the species. These are 

 undoubted evidences that the sea once covered the level country, 

 to near the foot of the first hills ; and in retreating, left these 

 marine animals behind. * * When this great 



event happened, or from what cause, is locked up amongst 

 the arcana of Providence, beyond human penetration. * * * 

 I long to hear of thy father's return, and to know how it fares 

 with him. It is now a long time since I had any letter. But 

 it was very lucky I got the box from Georgia, with thy father's 

 Journal, which I value more than all the rest, and some of 

 Billy's fine drawings. I am glad to see that he has not lost 

 that curious art, which so few attain. I wish it could any way 

 turn to his profit. 



I am no stransrer to the native Bread of Carolina and Vir- 

 ginia. It's a Tuber terrce, or Earth Fungus. I have it sent 

 me, near as big as my head. In time of want it is of great 

 importance to the Indians. They call it Tuckahoe. * * 



Now, friend John, farewell. 



P. Collinson. 



P. COLLINSON TO JOHN BARTRAM. 



Mill Hill, May 28th, 1766. 



I received my dear John's, from Carolina, and accepted thy 

 bill for ,150. 5s. 8d. 



I think thou hast done prudently, to settle thy son William : 

 for he is an ingenious young man, and I hope his ingenuity 

 will prompt him to industry, to improve the talent, that, in thy 

 paternal goodness, thou hast bestowed on him. I wish I could 

 tell how to write to him, without any expense to him, to give 

 him my friendly advice, as I have a great respect for him. But 

 one thing is not to be omitted, and that is, to get him a virtuous, 



