
          I have a great fondness for watching the progress of vegitation [vegetation]
 in some of our fine Gardens, [added: in this City] and have been looking after the 
 Grapes and fruits, and making notes from time to time.


 Dr. Gray's excursion, is one in which I am interested
 I hope he will be able to cultivate the Diphyllea cymosa  [Diphylleia cymosa]
 If so, I may be tempted to visit his Garden, and see 
 the plant, or rather himself and Garden. I feel a deep
 interest in Dr Gray's pursuits and undertakings.


 1844 Feby [February] 6th. The foregoing letter was written [added: long since] as the dates will shew [show]
 but having much to say, I delayed finishing it, much to my 
 regret, when I count the time, and consider how faithful 
 you [crossed out: are] [added: have been] as a correspondent.


 I have been hard pressed in various ways, with duties, and
 writing, and hoped to send some things to you when less harried
 I have written to Washington, and am informed there are
 no copies of Lieut [Lieutenant] Fremonts report, to spare, how is 
 this? Can you inform me? did you procure any 
 copies and can you supply me with one?


 I have for the last 2 years or more written a number of
 articles for the Papers urging Reform of the rates of 
 Postage. I have drafted three memorials, which 
 have been been presented to Congress. I trust there is a good
 prospect of something being done. You have paid a 
 large share of Postage in your day, I wish you would
 send me some estimate of the amount of your postage 
 in a year. Cheap postage would be a great thing for
 this Country. I like the working of Penny System of Rowland
 Hill. I am glad to see so much feeling on the subject
 of Post Office Reform in the  Country.  The subject must
 soon come up in Congress for its action.


 I had lately occasion to deliver a discourse on the 
 grapes before a farmers Club, or Society in this place, and
 they desire me to furnish a report to print, of their
 proceedings. I have paid a good share of attention 
 to the grapes, and have a number of observations that 
 I should like to communicate for your report on 
 State Flora. 

        