CORRESPONDENCE OF RAY. 445 



quashed. After the sores seemed to be in a fair way of 

 heahng, and my legs in a good measure cleared of the 

 scabs and scurf that covered them ; I know not upon 

 what occasion, they broke out again, with more and larger 

 ulcers than before, which also ran at a great rate, and 

 continue still so to do, notwithstanding all my physic, so 

 that I do almost despair of any help or remedy. All 

 that I have to do is to endeavour to render them as easy 

 and peaceable as I can. However, I will go on still with 

 my method for some time, till I find by experience that I 

 shall reap little benefit by it. I have drawn up a little 

 method of insects which may take up two sheets. It is 

 very lame and imperfect, especially in the tribe of muscse. 

 I did intend to have sent it up this day, but I fear it is 

 now too late and the carrier gone. I hear the third 

 volume of my ' History of Plants' is now finished at the 

 press. The ' General History of Insects' I fear I shall be 

 in no case to undertake and carry on, should I live long 

 enough (which I have no reason to hope), my pains are 

 so grievous, and render my life so uneasy and uncom- 

 fortable. My wife and daughters send you their humble 

 services and thanks for the noble presents you have made 

 us. Having nothing further to communicate, I take 

 leave, and rest. 



Sir, 



Your very much obliged and affectionate 



friend and humble servant. 



Jo. Ray. 



To his honoured friend, Dr. Hans Sloane, 



at his house, at the corner of Southampton street, 

 towards Bloomsbury square, Loudon. 



