
          Has the country been explored by any Botanist 
 since Humboldt in 1803? And is there still 
 room enough in that branch to repay one for 
 devoting a few years to its investigation?


 I am young (22), without any engagements to 
 confine me to this section of country, and prefer 
 the study of Botany &c. to any thing else. 
 Although I have not arrived at any positive 
 determination, I have commenced the study of Spanish 
 language, & find it (with the aid of Latin & French) 
 quite easy. I should be pleased to have your 
 advice on this subject. as you have [crossed out: access] [added: many] sources 
 of information [crossed out: to?] which are beyond my reach. 
 I should be highly gratified if you would state to 
 me what you think of the prospects in Mexico for
 a person under my circumstances, and whether any 
 other section of country [added: or any other situation] presents greater inducements. 
 Under whatever circumstances I may be placed
 it will be gratifying to me to continue a correspondence
 which has thus far been so useful 
 to me, and I shall always wish to do all in 
 my power to render it interesting to you. 
 I shall be ready to leave this place by 1st of 
 Septr [September] next, at which time I shall probably 
 visit N.Y. Will you write me. on this 
 subject as soon as convenient. & very much oblige


 Yours truly
 A. [Asa] Gray


 Dr. J. Torrey
 N.Y.
        