
          commemorates some Mons. [Monsieur?] Pluche.


 You will ask what has brought me to town. 
 A very recherche dinner-party given to Rogers,
 the Geologist, by Mr. Ticknor. I go little into 
 society: but that little, I take care shall be of the
 very best. A very pleasant party it proved. No ladies 
 except those of the household. Mrs. & Miss Ticknor, both 
 in the highest degree accomplished. Emerson was of 
 the party, also Prescott the historian. Not choosing 
 to walk to Cambridge in the evening through the 
 spook, I stayed of course at Greenes. 
 Mr. Greene has had some time a cough which 
 gives us some anxiety. But Dr. Bigelow does not 
 appear to think it serious.


 Tell Herby I am most glad to receive the love 
 his sends, and return it with interest; and to Mrs. 
 T. [Torrey] that I await her "special epistle" with special 
 anxiety. 


 Received yesterday a hasty line from Hooker, most[ly] 
 about Sullivant's affairs. no news. 


 With affectionate regards to all, I 
 remain, Yours very faithfully


 A. [Asa] Gray

        