
          I have read with intense interest Capt. Frémonts' two reports
of his Oregon and Californian explorations, and am much pleased to learn
that his third is likely to be so full of botanical interest. Is it not
strange, however, that he did not take an experienced naturalist and 
collector with him? His own particular duties, I should think, would be too
arduous to admit of his paying sufficient attention to matters of this kind.

I am truly sorry to hear that it will be so difficult for me to secure 
a copy of your Report on the Botany of N. York. I would gladly 
give the full price for the entire work, for the purpose of securing your
part of it only. Can you refer me to any person, bookseller, speculator,
or anything, who could supply me on any terms? Will you,
at least, favour me with a proof sheet, as it is printing, that I
may at least see the scope and character of the work?

When may we expect another part of your invaluable Flora
of N.A. [North America]? We are all now so much accustomed to refer to that work
to solve our doubts and difficulties, that those families not yet treated
of have comparatively no attraction for us. I am well pleased to
learn from Dr. Gray that he is about engaging in a very useful work,
more especially in elucidation of American genera. I hope to render him
some assistance in the way of living plants, specimens, drawings, &c. &c.

My wife being about to visit the land of her nativity (N. Jersey)
for the benefit mainly of the health of one of our daughters, will probably
spend some days in the vicinity of Princeton, where she has some relatives;
to her care, therefore, I shall confide this letter and the specimen refer'd to.

Very truly, my dear, Sir, I am yours C.W. Short.
        