
          but it is impossible to induce them to sell these
 owing to hinderances, I find I shall not be able to give
 you this letter, it being now too late for the mail. So I will
 try to finish it on Monday.


 Jany [January] 25th Monday [added: 2pm] a Fire broke out in the outskirts of this City on
 Saturday Evening. this is rather a rare occurrence, but since
 the severe calamity that befell [New York, written over your City] you may suppose
 how soon every body was on the spot to render assistance.
 I got rather nervous on this subject while last in NY [New York] from the narrow
 escape my Books had in the College. Last night we have had a wonderful
 hail storm which still continues. More than a foot of hail has fallen
 We had but little snow before! though I never saw such an icy winter so far.
 A few days ago I made out a list of Botanical Works greatly
 wanted for the use of the College Students, Dr Fisk who is at
 present in Italy will visit London in Spring, and there I expect will
 make the required purchaces [purchases]. 


 I shall be glad to hear from you in a few days at farthest. If
 you are in haste to have the Columbite, let me know 
 but as Mr A Russell 103 Prince St is here, I may have
 an opportunity to forward it by him, if I am disappointed
 I will take the earliest chance I get. 


 I sent a small box of Insects to Dr Wilkins sometime since
 in return for what he kindly furnished to me, and shall
 have more for him, when I can bring them. 
        