No. 129.] 41 



There remains still another way in which the Institute can pro- 

 mote the cause of Botanical Science, as well as some other sci- 

 ences intimately connected with it : I mean by the establishment 

 of a Botanical Garden, with the aid of the State, if it chooses to 

 aid us ; without it, if it will not. During the last session of the 

 Scientific Congress, this subject presented itself to my mind in a 

 very forcible manner. Some topic, I now forget what, came be- 

 fore this body of learned savans, in the elucidation of which was 

 wanted precisely that kind of knowledge which a Botanical 

 Garden is peculiarly fitted to afford. I thought then, and think 

 now, that the establishment of such a garden should be made a 

 leading object with the American Institute. I had intended to 

 indicate some of the benefits to be derived from a Botanical 

 Garden, and to mark out a plan for one ; but I have neither space 

 nor time to spare to the subject at this moment, and must conse- 

 quently defer it for a brief period. I hppe to be able to convince 

 the members of the Institute, that it is both feasible .and desir- 

 able. 



In conclusion, let me add once more my best wishes for the 

 continued prosperity of the Institute, and the interests committed 

 to its care. 



All of which is respectfully submitted, 



PITER B. MEAD, 



Chair, of Com. on Hort. 



