I have written to A.
Gray and to X., who--i.e.the latter--on this point may be looked at as S.Smith's Foolometer.
I am now working several of the large local Floras, with leaving out altogether all the smallest genera.

When I have done this, and seen what the sections of the largest genera say, and seen what the results are of range and commonness of varying species, I must come to some definite conclusion whether or not entirely to give up the ghost.

I shall then show how my theory points, how the facts stand, then state the nature of your grievous assault and yield entirely or defend the case as far as I can honestly.
Again I thank you for your invaluable assistance.

I have not felt the blow [Hooker's criticisms] so much of late, as I have been beyond measure interested on the constructive instinct of the hive-bee.

Adios, you terrible worrier of poor theorists! LETTER 61.