
          the prospect is, and what kind of aparatus I shall
require to make the Expedition as thorough as the nature of
the case may admit of. I regret much that I
am not better acquainted with plants except those immediately
in my own neighborhood. If I were better acquainted
I could judge better what plants would be acceptable.

I am studying the Flora and comparing specimens with
the descriptions as far as I have them, as well as other subjects
that may afford useful information on the subject.

I wish very much that I had a copy of Beck's Botany,
but there is not a copy to be found in Utica.

My professional business has been pretty good since
you were here in August but at present it is quite
healthy and our Factory Folks have stopt cash payment to their
workmen. Money is quite scarce, but one can get plenty 
to eat drink and put on for the present.

There is not much snow here say 16 or 18 inches, but
we have good sleighing. There is more snow west.
I believe the Cars on the Auburn & Syracuse R. R. have
not made a trip since last saturday on account of the 
snow. Here the cars have not yet missed a trip this
Winter.

The weather is extremely cold yesterday the 
mercury in the thermometer stood at 18 [degree symbol] below 0 at 6AM
and this morning at 20 degrees below 0.

Please give my respects to Mrs. Torrey and the children.
Remember me also to our friend Dr. Gray.

P.S. Dr. Sartwell called on me and we spent the
night in looking over plants and conversing on the subject

Believe me truly yours

P. D. Knieskern.
        