To J. D. Hooker   4 August 1844

My dear Sir,

I noticed the article in the Gardeners Chronicle & understood its bearing – & deeply regretted that men of science should delight in this “biting & devouring one another”– I trust that Mr Brown’s position in the Botanical world sets him too high above caring for any such “fiery darts” as you will see by the enclosed I have lately called these sorts of illintentioned attacks, come from whatever quarter they may – I do not know who may be the author of the Article in the G. Chr. & had much rather not be told – The attack will not be understood by the world at large, & will be as little thought about by the Botanical world as any real reflection on Mr Brown’s character: whilst we all know that he has in truth done more for the highest branches of our science than any man living – not even excepting your own Father, foremost as he stands – you are going on most admirably with your work –

My kindest regards to your family & believe me ever

Most truly Y ^rs | J. S. Henslow

P. S. I ought to say that the enclosed is the 2 ^d of a series of letters I am intending for the Bury Post on the subject which engages us deeply here – the improvement of our [illeg.] agricultural population