
          New Beryl April 7th 1836


 Dr. John Torrey


 Dear Sir


 Thinking it may be interesting
 to you, I beg leave to mention that a large specimen
 of Cycas Revoluta in my collection has thrown out
 a mass of transmogrified fronds bearing the
 embryo fruit of the plant. Had the season permitted
 I should have submitted it to the inspection
 of the Scientific by sending it to your City; but
 under present circumstances that would not
 be prudent. I can only therefore say that I should
 be proud to exhibit my Collection to you if you
 will favor me by a visit at this congenial season.
 If there are any Botanists of your acquaintance
 who would like to see it please extend an invitation
 to them; altho' I do not know of any besides
 yourself, who are pledged by contemporary reputation,
 not to suffer such an opportunity to pass
 unimproved. You see I am not awed by the
 promised scolding, for I have that confidence
 in your friendship and humanity that I would
 submit to your reprimand so cheerfully as to show
 that I appreciate the excellence of your mention in 
 administering such deserved discipline


 Yours with compliments
 to Mrs. T. [Torrey]


 John W Knevels

        