From Benjamin Maund   19 January 1845

My dear Professor

I have to thank you for copy of Dict.– I have not proceeded with it – still whenever you feel that you have a certain claim on me be pleased to say so & it shall be met duly.

I have always believed that the Primula vulgaris, elatior, & veris, were but varieties of one species, & I think you had the same opinion. If it be not inconvenient will you oblige me with a note by return, stating any evidence that has fallen under y. ^r notice. I shall in next No. of Botanic Garden & Scientist publish two varieties raised by Mr. Williams of Pitmaston from seed of the Cowslip – the one a pretty Polyanthus. Mr W. has many varieties, intermediate between the wild cowslip & garden Polyanthus – perhaps I can find you one – all are from cowslip seed.

I am anxious to compare different varieties of Wheat with each other, but do not find it easy to obtain them. If you can oblige me with an Ear of a sort of any Suffolk varieties I shall have pleasure in “Paying in Kind”. Can you direct me to a detail of the proximate principles of many varieties? (besides Mackenzie’s) I find here & there an analysis, but nothing worth notice. It appears to me that if we deal with the Gluten & Starch it is sufficient for ordinary purposes. Does this coincide with your observations? Have you any nice method of mounting your specimens of Wheat?

That a happy year be allotted your self & family circle, is the wish of, my dear Prof. ^r

Yours faithfully | Benjamin Maund