My friend Dr. Muhlenberg of this place, whose reputation as a botanist you are not unacquainted with, is very desirous of possessing the seed of any rare plants that Captain Lewis may have brought with him. As you will be in possession of them, I have taken the liberty of requesting a specimen of any that you may have to spare, for my friend the Doctor. As you have always evinced the strongest desire to promote science of every kind, and to give every encouragement in your power to men of science, I shall make an apology for the freedom of this request. Permit me to tender to you the homage of my sincere respect and regard