To Thomas Martin 25 August 1853

My dear Sir,

I most cordially agree in the sentiments expressed in the account you have just forwarded – & for which I beg to thank you. The statement you noticed in the G. Chronicle is not overaccurate (as you may have observed) – My little girls don’t pretend to describe minutely – but some of them are well acquainted with very nearly all the Hitcham wild flowers – & can pretty readily refer garden plants to such Natural orders as they have learnt & recognize among the wild plants – You would have enjoyed seeing them on Friday exploring the margins of a large field in Brettenham Park where we spent the afternoon & added 2 species to our Flora – winding up the day with a Bread & Cheese Jam & Cake, Lemonade & Raspberry Vinegar & bidding good bye to the solitary woods & glen with a few songs & hymns–

I am truly sorry I had no opportunity for calling in my short visit to Sir B. Brodie – I did not know till just as I left London that I was to pass near Reigate, & on conferring with Sir B. I found I could not continue to call– I was pressed for time & had to get home next day – If ever I revisit him, I shall hope to arrange better

Believe me

very truly yours

J. S. Henslow