[ 5H 3 
XLV. The Copy of a Tetter from John 
Ellis, Efq\ F.R.S. to Mr. William Ai ton, 
botanic Gardener to her Royal Higbnefs the 
Princefs Dowager of Wales, at Kevv, on 
a new Species c/ Illicium Linnsei, or Starry 
Anifeed Tree , lately difcovered in Weft 
Florida. 
S I R, 
Read Dec. 13, T70UR extenfive knowledge in bo- 
1 tany, and great lkill in the culti- 
vation of the rareli exotic plants from all parts of the 
world in the celebrated botanic garden of her royal 
highnefs the princefs dowager of Wales at Kevv, 
will I hope, apologize for me to the Royal Society 
for the liberty I take in laying this letter, which I 
addrefs to you, before them j efpecially as moft of 
that illuflrious body, who have made that agreeable 
fcience their Rudy, are fully convinced of the truth 
of it, by often having the pleafure of feeing that molt 
noble and truly princely collection, which is lo happily 
placed under your care. 
I confefs myfelf particularly obliged by your fkill 
and attention in railing not only the oak acorns, 
which were put into your hands by the Royal Soci- 
ety, after they had been preferved by me a whole 
feafon 
