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seemed incredible to those who are unaware what intellectual power and activity are occasionally displayed by persons to whom one sense is shut out. The blind Rumphius, of Holland, is stillrecognized as conspicuous among erudite botanical investigators; and John Eddy, had his life been protracted, and he given an exclusive attention to the same kind of studies, might have secured to himself a permanent place in the catalogue of Ame-rican botanists. Make such use of this imperfect letter as you may think fit. With due consideration, I remain, very respectfully, JOHN W. FRANCIS. To Colonel S. L. KNAPP.