EZRA BRAINERD 



SPRINGSIDE 

 MIDDLEBURY. VT. DeC. 3'0 , 1919. 



My clear Mr Dearie : - 



I thank foti most cordially Tor the Christmas greeting from you 

 and Miss Brown. I nave before ms the several notes that you have written since 

 Nov. 21st. During much of this time I have been laid up with colds, and over- 

 whelmed with the pressure of various Kinds of work. I am better now, but the 

 doctor enjoins on me to avoid fatiguimg work for the present. Tour problem, 

 however, regarding the proper disposition of the violet from Shelburne, F. H. 

 I can solve I think if I have another look at it. I have a new pair of glas- 

 ses that have greatly improved my vision. So send up the specimen and I will 

 pass on it. 



our y* . Botanical contemplate going up to Averil Lake in i;ssex Go. Vt. for 

 their summer outing, it is not far from 'v'/illoughoy Lk. region where Dr. Kenne- 

 dy did such good work, and adjacent to Coos Co., N.H. 



Our Bulletin showing the result of our experimental study of the Few Eng- 

 land blackberries is not in press. It has taken up much of my time and strength 

 during the past eight weeks. Then the finishing up of my study of the No. Am, 

 violets is demanding attention. Other pressing duties might oe cited. I could 

 well employ ten more years to finish my life work. But such I suppose is the 



' lot of most they leave their tasks for other and often abler men to complete. 



But be assured t n at my old friendship for you is undiminished. That each 

 succeeding year of life may be your best years is my heart's sincere prayer. 



As ever yours faithfully. 



