I take the liberty of addressing you upon a subject of much importance to the University as well as to myself. A Botanic Garden is about to be established for this Institution; and it seems, from the Enactments and the directions of our late Rector, that the superintendency and general management devolves upon me as Instructor in the school of Natural History. My duties, however, are now so laborious that the most perfect ability for such an undertaking could be no security for the proper attention. Botany and Rural Economy are subjects with which I am but superficially acquainted and as they require a thorough practical Knowledge there is but little probability that I will ever be able to devote time enough for their acquisition without neglecting my other duties. These considerations compel me to express a wish that I may be relieved from them and the charge of the botanic garden. With great respect, gentlemen, I remain Your obedt. servant