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St Louis 20 Nov 1858.

Friend Kennicott

Your esteemed favor of 16-
this 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 bal-
of 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