
          for the ancient Peruvians because the plates cost 
$500. As it is, we pay large sums annually for
engravers bills. It is mystifying in some degree
to see such things as Graham's magazines with a 
circulation of over 50,000 per month & we having
only about 1000, & not 800 who pay (!).

As soon as we are [added: at] the bottom of the hill down
which the country has been sliding for 3 years past
we shall [crossed out: then?] hope for a change in our affairs & begin
to make a stir. We feel that it has been of
great service to the Journal having had the 
services of Dr. Gray, who is, & has been as you
know for some time, our authority for all botanical
matters in the Journal, & the extension
of the same system within proper limits, which
has long been our purpose, will give the Journal
a tone of authority in most mattters from which
there will be no appeal.

We know of Mr. Buckley's intended paper
on southern plants. It can have a place in 
July. Mr. B. will please note on his [added: present] paper when 
he returns the proof sheet [added: to N. Haven] how many copies he will
have for his own use, which he will please
accept from us. Harvard College will now 
begin to take a proper place in scientific
consideration. The appointment of Gray was the
best move ever made by them, & will extend here
as far as anything is known about it.

Very truly your friends

B. Silliman & B. Silliman Jr.
        