Nevertheless the hope occasionally revives.
Finally let me thank you for the very kind manner in which you often refer to my works, and for the even still kinder manner in which you disagree with me.
With cordial thanks for the pleasure and instruction which I have derived from your book, etc.
LETTER 304.

TO COUNT SAPORTA.

Down, February 13th, 1881.
I received a week or two ago the work which you and Prof.Marion have been so kind as to send me.

(304/1.

Probably "L'Evolution du Regne vegetal," I."Cryptogames," Saporta & Marion, Paris, 1881.) When it arrived I was much engaged, and this must be my excuse for not having sooner thanked you for it, and it will likewise account for my having as yet read only the preface.
But I now look forward with great pleasure to reading the whole immediately.