
          New Albany Nov. 10th 1840


 Dr Sir


 Yours of 24th Oct. was recd [received] a few
 days since, which very much cheered my drooping
 spirits for I began to fear that you had
 entirely forgotten my humble self, and commenced
 an examination of my own conduct
 in relation to correspondents which proved anything
 but satisfactory, and firmly resolved to 
 [sin?] no more. But I have not the excuse
 that you have and feel amply repaid if I can
 get one letter in return for several.


 It gives me much pleasure to hear that your
 excellent Flora is progressing, and I will send
 the first opportunity some of our asters solidagos
 &c. I have not botanized much this 
 year and do not expect to find many more sp.
 in this vicinity. The collections and examination
 of our pupils especially the [Polypusia?] (for
 which my location is peculiarly favorable) and
 the study of the German Language has occupied
 my leisure hours the year past. But do not imagine
 that I shall prove [illegible] to the study
 of Botany. It is the most delightful of pursuits
 but I cannot make a satisfactory catalogue until

        