161

to the impressiveness of the Bible story, – but there it
is, to be regarded as you please."

It is said that nitrification takes place
with extreme rapidity in [the?] arid regions
of Arizona, the author meaning more
particularly the chemical changes,
– involving nitrification – in the soil,
[relation?] to the water carried by [some?].
I suppose, of course, there could be no
soil without more or less moisture.

If the conditions indicated are such in
Arizona would they not be greater in
the desert of Arabia, and, from an astronomical
+ geological view-point, greater, even there,
several thousand years ago than now?
I only make these suggestions, if they
are worthy to be deemed such, as possibly
being of some use in the study of the matter.
I thought enough of the question to write
the Dept. at Washington enquiring about, +
enclosing the clipping. Be pleased to
have your opinion and such further
information as you may care to give.

Parrish, [Atty.?]

To Prof. Bessey,
University ' Nebraska.