294: 
Scientific Intelligence, [no. 4, new series. 
Specimens of Cotton and information desired witli a view to 
the Chemical investigation of the Cotton Plant. 
Mr. Mallet, Professor of Chemistry in the University of Alabama 
W. S. is engaged in investigating the Chemistry, Natural history 
and Physical condition of the cotton plant, and has applied to the 
Court of Directors for specimens and infofmation which may ena- 
ble him to extend his researches to the varieties produced in India. 
The following Memo, was at the same time drawn up by Mr. 
Mallet to serve as a guide as to the kinlt of information desired by 
him from those supplying him with specimens. ^ 
It would be desirable to have specimens from fouy or five of the Cotton 
growing localities of India, differing in soil and climate, those which are 
most important now, or may be expected hereafter to become so. 
Separate analysis should be made of the ash of the following parts of the 
plant, and specimens will therefore be required of 
(1st.) The root. 
(2d.) The stem (with smaller branches and twigs.) 
(3d.) The leaves. 
(4th.) The bole or pod. 
(5th.) The seed. 
(6th.) The fibre or cotton. 
About four pounds of each of these parts (in the green state) would be 
needed, hence a sufiicient number of entire plants should be collected to 
yield at least the above amount of each part. 
The total weight of the entire plants clear of earth and in their fresh 
green state must be stated, they must be weighed free from rain or extra- 
neous moisture. 
The specimens should be gathered in dry weather and just after the hole 
has fully opened. 
The whole of the root, as of every other organ should be taken, each 
specimen should then be put up in paper or cotton cloth, and distinctly 
marked and referred to a list, the marks legible and indelible. 
« 
Besides the plants, about four pounds weight of the soil in which they 
were grown should be also put up in cotton cloth, and similarly labelled, 
carefully referring to the plants taken therefrom. 
Information as to the following points accompanying the specimens 
would be very important and valuable. 
