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Informs Roe of the progress of his son, W. T. H. Roe, in his medical studies at Pennsylvania College. Roe displays respectability and studiousness. Pleased with the college's success. Daguerreotype "on the mode of drawing by light" is drawing attention.

Mitchell’s request has been approved by Yale faculty, seemingly as it related to "Milne's work." Glad Mitchell still has zeal for astronomy, and refers to his article to be included in Silliman's journal. Laments his lack of time to devote to "original investigations" due to his obligations in writing books.

Surprised to learn that Silas Wright (1795-1847) had called Bennett to fill his position in Washington. Is sure Bennett is "doing all you can for the advancement and support, of sound and correct principles, or to make use of a synonym, of the Democratic Republican party." Unable to get in politics due to the demands of his studies, but he is pleased with the physician he is studying under. Encourages Bennett to pursue his studies and profession in New York City. Asks if he saw Fanny Elssler (1810-1884) while in the city. Is courting a woman boarding with the doctor he is studying under. See also George C[rosby] Finch ALS to Hiram Bennett, December 1, 1843.

Acknowledges receipt of “your sample Rose leaves,” and is submitting an order for them as well as Bombay Myrrh. Corrects a recent bill sent to them. Written on “Botanic Medicine Store” printed advertisement. “…for the benefit of Botanic Physicians, as also for the accommodation of Private Families, who are in almost daily use of Roots, Herbs and Barks.” Production of “VEGETABLE MEDICINES” and their collecting “Indigenous Plants from all parts of the United States.” Includes a catalogue of “simples kept on hand,” listing the types of barks, herbs, roots, flowers, and medicinal plants available. Lists available compounds, including Cholera Syrup, Jaundice Bitters, Female Strengthening Syrup, Dysentery Cordial, and others.

Describes eye surgery performed on her at the Medical College of Geneva, New York, where 140 students attended her procedure. Notes the cost, details of the surgery, and recovery. Gives her thoughts on his finding a wife. Comments on William Henry Harrison and Van Buren, and dislikes Whig political maneuvering.

Married Quaker woman discusses her absent husband, botanical studies with William Gibbons, and attendance with a number of female acquaintances at a series of Anatomy and Physiology lectures, which include mannequin dissections. Notes discomfort at the mixed-gender nature of public anatomy lectures and the establishment of an alternative lecture series for women. Justifies her attendance by noting the respectability of the women. Discussion of postage costs and reading materials. [Note: Original located in Quaker Collection]

Notes local doctors' favorable thoughts on setting up practice as a physician in Nottaway. Muses on buying Dr. Agnew's "stand." Comments on his travels and meetings with local officials, notes a large funeral, and reflects on the doctors of the area. Records advice about how to set up a successful practice and the challenges he would face.

Discusses debts, selling medicinal pills, and gaining a deep understanding of a disease’s nature in order to cure it. Suspects Marcus is suffering from bronchitis, commenting on the biology of the respiratory tract, Marcus’s symptoms, and prescribing medicine “not so much…according to the name as according to the nature & symptoms present.” Notes possible remedies to attempt and their effects.. Mentions Dr. Tully’s writings on bloodroot. Remarks on the difference between chronic and acute illnesses and discusses bowel movements and the information they provide about the liver. Recommends he cease studying and take up physical employment, particularly agriculture. Notes the health benefits of western countries and the positive impact of their mother nursing him.

Sending small mollusk shells from Fiji and Peru, in return for shells recently sent to her. Comments on other shell collectors. Gives news of General Miller, John Gibaut, and Rev. J. U. Thompson. Promises to send a list of pastors of Salem's Second Unitarian Church.

Acknowledges receipt of a pamphlet on natural history. Constructing a microscope to view Bacillaria and aid his botanical studies. Includes a small sketch of his design for the microscope lenses. Comments on their exchange of plant specimens.