RKBP-484

St Louis 20 Nov 1858.

Friend Kennicott

Your esteemed favor of 16this day rcd. I am rejoiced that you are able to weild the pen. and evidently [found?] your "Critique" with vigor. I have but one remark to make on "Critique"_ and that is to remember your failings_ & ever bear in mind that a criticism must be short and either pungent or practical in its matter_ Don't be angry, for thus far you are well I only say remember_ I am having a hard time. I came here in July I obtained some $1500_ worth of orders. [Heaver?] was to execute & forward me promptly. He has not done it, but has put up a little of each mans order & left the rest to come. I have had to pay freights & as yet got nothing nor can I until he sends balof orders_ It's a dark time with me. Now as I write there is two inches frost in the ground & snowing. However_ Hope on_ I have not sold over two dozen of the bulbs. Shall have to plant them out. they are too small_ I do not know of any Peach Pits now but we have written south for some. Pear Seeds we are importing from England_ I am glad you have had a good business this fall. I feel truly in low spirits. Have lost all, & now [illegible] for daily bread for my family.

I am with all at work revising my Book. It goes forward to the publisher next week. I have promise from him to issue it for the Spring trade_ Regards to all_

Yours Truly

F. R. Elliott