From George Dickie   1 December 1856

Dear Sir,

I have much pleasure in stating my own observations on Subularia.¹ A few miles W from Aberdeen—my native place—it is abundant, & I have repeatedly, year after year, visited the locality with my students.

I always found it submerged, but never in deep water; generally round the edges of the Loch.

We generally found flower buds, but never saw them expanded. On being opened I have often found fully developed Anthers &c, and have never failed to get ripe seeds in August & September.²

Koch may have seen the plant growing and flowering in the air, I can only state my own experience as to it’s habits. The question can be settled by cultivation & careful regulation of the supply of water. I generally visit Aberdeen every summer & should feel glad to send you a supply of living plants by post. I believe we have similar habits in the Elatines, one of which I have often gathered, growing as it does at Aberdeen in company with Subularia.

faithfully yours | G Dickie

P.S. I shall always be glad to reply to any similar communications | GD.