
          Panama Sept. 13 1854


 My Dear Sir,


 I have been applied to
 since my return, for information
 as to the price of crude platina
 in the U.S. and whether the war
 in Europe has at all enhanced its
 value. I know no one who could 
 give me better information than
 yourself & I trust you will excuse
 the liberty I have taken in troubling
 you with a matter of business.
 Will you do me the favor to reply
 by return mail under cover to care of
 William Nelson of Panama.


 The province of Choco abounds in
 platina and if the price would be
 [crossed out: at] in any way remunerative considerable
 quantities might be secured.


 Yours Sincerely
 M. B. Halsted


 Prof. John Torrey
 New York 
        