
          Recd [Received] Oct. 21.
ansd [Answered] verbally

Fort Monroe, Old Point Comfort
Oct. 10, 1834

My dear sir,

On the 3d of next month I expect to be on 
duty in the city of New York, as a member of a board 
for the examination of candidates for appointment in the 
medical staff of the Army; unless prevented from doing so 
by the continuance of the cholera, which is now prevailing
as an epidemic at this place, it would give me pleasure 
to communicate [added: to you] any facts in my possession relating to the 
plants of the Ultra Mississippi.

When I passed through N.Y. [New York] in July I called at your residence, 
but found it closed. This led me to suppose that your family 
was out of town. When I returned in August, the cholera 
had made it appearance, I therefore took it for granted that 
they had not come in from the country & did not report
my call. From this you will see that the feeling you imparted
to me was not so active as you had been led to suppose. 
The compliment you have paid me, is more than a mere collector 
of plants is entitled to. Till you see me or hear from me again 
accept the assurance of friendly regard of
your obt [obedient] servant Z. Pitcher.
        