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P. H. Mell, Jr., C. & M. E., Ph. D.

State Agricultural and Mechanical College,
Department of Natural History and Geology

Auburn, Ala. October 12th 1880

Dr. C. E. Bessey
Ames Iowa

Dear sir:

Your letter of Aug. 7th has
remained unanswered so long because I
rec'd. it just on the eve of an extended Geological
[inf.?] Since my return I have taken
great pleasure in examining your work on
Botany. At the same time that your letter
reached me I rec'd. one from your publishrs.
I have replied to them as follows:

"The Author has performed a good work
in giving to the public such an excellent book.

If it is first preceeded by an elementary
course in Botany, I consider this work admirably
adapted as an introduction to the Botanical
Laboratory, and, therefore, especially suitable for
those students who propose to become practical
Botanists. I have concluded to introduce this
book in this Institution provided the Trustees
open next year the Laboratory that I have
suggested to them."

Accept my thanks for the copy sent
and rest assured that I wish you all success
in the introduction of the work throughout
the country.

Yrs Very Truly
P. H. Mell Jr.