250

2

observers and collectors, in making field
explorations, in purchasing such type collections
as may be procurable &c. With the Committee
of Agriculture chiefly it now lays to decide
whether we have the needed appropriation or
not.

They are not supposed to know much about
botany or botanical investigations and the
general policy of reducing expenses may lead
them to reject the application.– Therefore any influence
that can be brought to bear upon the
members of the Committee from men who are
not directly connected with the Government, but
who are known for their scientific work, especially
for the improvment and benefit of Agriculture
will be likely to do good, and I write to suggest
that you communicate with some member or
members of Congress from your state, expressing your
views of the great importance of giving the botanical
division the means of prosecuting its work.

Yours truly
Geo. Vasey