522 LETTERS TO DARWIN AND OTHERS. (1864, 
writing of such divisions, etc., pray use the scientific 
orm. 
The other course has greatly jargonified zodlogy. 
In botany we have always been more dignified. 
Moreover I detest “larve,” though Kirby tried to in- 
troduce the word. “ Larva” has got to be as English 
as “ phenomenon.” 
But I dare say most would agree with you. 
I like the ring of most of the new technical terms 
you have coined. .. . Ever yours, 
» Gray. 
TO CHARLES DARWIN. 
February 16, 1864. 
My pear Darwin, — Here we are past midwinter, 
and not being stimulated as of old by your exciting 
letters, I have not written you a line since Christmas. 
Not that I have had anything in particular to tell you. 
I write now to say how very sorry I am that the word 
or two I get about you from Hooker gives me the 
idea that you are having an uncomfortable and suffer- 
ing time, as well as entirely broken off from scientific 
work. I feel very sorry about it, and do long for 
better news of you. . . 
I have lately peinied a couple of monographs, one 
pretty big one, of American Astragali. I do not know 
that they contain anything you would care to see. 
Yet I think I shall send you a copy presently, through 
Hooker. 
I feel much the loss of dear old Boott, so good, so 
true a friend, and he was always writing me little 
notes telling me of all that was going on. 
The sentiment of our country, you must see, at 
least I assure you, has settled, as I knew it would if 
hea-Rankaline Lak acceenlaliciee 
