
          Albany, March 26. 1828.

Dear Sir,

I have long been desirous of being numbered among 
your correspondents,  but have not been able to 
prevail upon myself to request your assistance in my 
botanical pursuits until now, though assured by several 
of our mutual friends that it would readily be granted.
If I have acted improperly, you must blame the delightful
spring weather we have had for some days past,
which by reminding me of the near approach of the season
of flowers, made me desirous of beginning the study of
them [added: this year] under as favorable auspices as possible; a study
than which none can be more delightful at any time, and
which to me will I hope be a source of pleasure, and
facilitate the operation of time in reconciling me to my late
irreparable loss.

I have for two years past paid great attention to 
botany, and have been warmed by the friendship &
correspondence of several excellent botanists within
the State; and though I shall not henceforth be able to 
devote a great portion of my time to this pursuit,
as I have heretofore done, yet I hope to be able to furnish
you with some information, at any rate, [crossed out: with] [added: as regards] 
localities that may be interesting to you.

I have found most difficulty with the grasses, and Carices

        