
          [crossed out:?] source of so much distress to our politicians could be
applied to the fostering of science and literature.

Pray inform me whether I can procure a good microscope
(for the better investigation of vegetable structure) in town-- and 
the probable cost. I think I saw a very good instrument
in your study last summer.

I see your name among the Committee who solicited Prof.
Silliman to repeat his course of lectures in N.Y. Do you
coincide with him in his theory?

I will take an early opportunity when the boats commence running
to send a few plants to replenish Mrs. Torrey's parlor stand
if they will be acceptable. The winter has been so severe that
many house plants have [added: doubtless] perished-- neither Mr. Knevels or
I however have lost any by the Cold fortunately. I think the
crop of peaches is however injured again.

Believe me dear Sir
Very truly yours
A.J. Downing

Dr. Torrey

I am delighted with the admirable arrangement and perspicacity?? of
description that I find in Dr. Gray's Monograph of Rhychospora 
and still more if I may judge from the specimen sent me with
your Cyperaceae. Would that we had a complete N. American
flora executed in the same admirable manner. 
A.J.D.
        