
          I am glad that you are likely to have an oppor-
 tunity of inspecting the principal Herbaria, in the
 old world, wherein are contained the identical
 specimens of our plants, from which the descrip-
 tions were made, in those works which [passes?] among
 us as authorities. It will enable you to solve
 many perplexing doubts; &, I hope, prepare you
 to undertake a compendious American Flora, -
 such as we ought to [possess?], - on your return.
 I trust you will make such notes, during your 
 examinations, as will provide ample materials
 for correcting & elucidating existing errors & difficulties
 respecting American Plants.  Such an opportunity
 by a competent hand, can rarely occur - & ought 
 not to be lost.  Dr. Pickering told me, the other day,
 that you had informed him there was a report
 of the death of Prof. DeCandolle.  I sincerely hope
 the rumor was unfounded - though I have heard
 nothing further on the subject.  His death would
 be a grievous loss to the Botanical world - especially
 in this stage of his invaluable Prodromus.  Do you
 know whether the 5th vol. or Part, of that work has
 yet appeared? or when it may be expected?


     I have seen - that is, merely looked into Mr. [Sch..?]
 work on the N. Am. Fungi, in the transactions of
 the A.[Phila?]. Society.  It is indeed a wonderful per-
 formance; & I doublt not will be an enduring monu-
 ment of his learning, skill, & untiring perseverance.
 But it has filled me with despair of even being a Cryp-
 togamist.  I am now satisfied that it would be vain
 for me to attempt an acquaintance with any but the
 [Phaenogammous?] tribes - except, perhaps, a portion of the [illegible].

        