The other course has greatly jargonified zoölogy.
In botany we have always been more dignified. Moreover I detest “larve,” though Kirby tried to introduce the word. “Larva” has got to be as English as “phenomenon.”
But I dare say most would agree with you.
I like the ring of most of the new technical terms you have coined....
Ever yours,
A. Gray.
TO CHARLES DARWIN.
February 16, 1864.
My dear Darwin,—Here we are past midwinter, and not being stimulated as of old by your exciting letters, I have not written you a line since Christmas. Not that I have had anything in particular to tell you. I write now to say how very sorry I am that the word or two I get about you from Hooker gives me the idea that you are having an uncomfortable and suffering time, as well as entirely broken off from scientific work. I feel very sorry about it, and do long for better news of you....
I have lately printed a couple of monographs, one pretty big one, of American Astragali. I do not know that they contain anything you would care to see. Yet I think I shall send you a copy presently, through Hooker.
I feel much the loss of dear old Boott, so good, so true a friend, and he was always writing me little notes telling me of all that was going on.