The torso, quaint, simple and peculiar language 

 renders it the more interesting. It exhibits the 

 character of the man in the light of an out-spoken 

 kind hearted person. To alter and anglicize its 

 idiomatic phrases — to correct the many misspelt 

 words, or change the structure of the sentences, 

 would deprive it of half its interest. I therefore 

 purpose giving it verbatim et literatim, and con- 

 ceive the perusal cannot fail to please, amuse, 

 and instruct. 



Mr. Pursh was born at Tobolski, in Siberia, 

 and was educated at Dresden. He resided in 

 this country from 1799 to 1811, during which time 

 he made various botanical excursions. He went 

 to England and published his Flora, He return- 

 ed to America, and while engaged in collecting 

 material for a Canadian Flora, died at Montreal, 

 June 11, 1820, aged 46 years. 



Tnos. P. James 



