RK-369

Lebanon Boone Co 2nd July ^the 20^st 1857.

Mr R Kennicott

Sir

Yours of the 17^st Inst. came to hand this morning. can't for my life recolect making any remarks concerning those mammals you seak of in foot note on last Page, guess it must been opposite "Grondn-Monce" why I know that that gopher brings fourth two Two young at a time is this. the Nest in which this little fellow lived, contained two very small youngones, (which I examined minutely and found them to be the same as the speciman sent you,) - which I trusted in the care of two Boys who lost them on the way to the office, the one sent you. I put in Alcohol amediately after capured, (am sure they was the same)

I know not wheather the one sent you was Male, or, Female, it matters not to what sex it belong. you no dowubt know, the reason I sent you no more Insects was this. I had on hands a good selection nicely Pined in a glass coverd Box. Some 48 different kinds (at least they appeard differnt to me) Seald it (the Box,) up tight (as I supposed) put it away untill ready to send mammals, (put a piece of tobaco in the same) supposed it secure. the day prevous to sending the Box to you, I examined them and to my great astonishment found all distroyed from mice and Antimires whos found there way in, if I remain at this place till fall I will try and take a good lot out with me to your place this fall. Boath Malmmals and Insects, ^{Reptiles, &c.}

I would accompany you on your Northern Excursion (to Read River) provided I could ^{make it} pay expences, So I could get Back in time to attend Lecture at Chicago this winter, I know not wheather my Presents would be of benefiit to you or not. I would like much to go.

Weht Specimens will be better arranged sure, am doing some Practice (Medicina) I will do the Best Thing Possible for you in the future, write as soon as Received.

Your Most Cinceer and obedient Friend.

S.B. Davis.

P.S. Please Excus Bad writing and Spelling. [hash marks perhaps, written over Spelling]

[partial postmark] EANON L

[written] Mr Robt Kennicott West-Northfied Illinois. [circled] Near-Chicago

[circled] in hast