Letters to a Friend 



leaves of autumn is now making a doleful noise 

 as it gropes its way doubtfully and sulkily amid 

 heaps of snow and broken ice. 



The weather here is unusually cold. How do 

 matters stand at the University? Can it be 

 that the Doctor is really going to become prac 

 tical farmer? He will have time to compose 

 excellent lectures while following the plow and 

 harrow or when shearing his sheep. 



I thank you for your long, good letter. Those 

 who are in a lonely place and far from home 

 know how to appreciate a friendly letter. Re 

 member me to the Doctor and to all my friends 

 and believe me 



Yours with gratitude, 



JOHN MUIR. 



[1866 or 1867.] 



[Beginning of letter missing.] 

 I have not before sent these feelings and 

 thoughts to anybody, but I know that I am 

 speaking to one who by long and deep com 

 munion with Nature understands them, and 

 [6] 



