^.Berkeley  Street, 
December  2d. 1913 
My  dear  Deane, 
1  wish  that  1  could  say  yes, hut  1  must  say  no. 
Perhaps  at  some  meeting, when  1  could  stroll  in  without  any  previous 
announcement  of  a  set  speech,!  might  talk  for  ten  or  fifteen  minutes 
to  the  Club  about  the  days  when,  In  the  Consulship  of  Plancus,  Botany 
was  taught  by  one  man  and  a  boy.  But  to  have  an  engagement  made  for  next 
month  or  the  month  after, would  keep  me  in  hysterical  fidgets  for  many 
sleepless  nights. 
So  you  will  kindly  excuse  me  . 
Mrs.Groodale  joins  me  in  sending  to  you  and  to  Mrs. 
Deane  all  good  messages. 
Y  urs  faithfully 
