Examine this flourishing province, in whatever light you will, the eyes as well as the mind of an European traveller are equally delighted; because a diffusive happiness appears in every part:  happiness which is established on the broadest basis.  The wisdom of Lycurgus and Solon never conferred on man one half of the blessings and uninterrupted prosperity which the Pennsylvanians now possess:  the name of Penn, that simple but illustrious citizen, does more honour to the English nation than those of many of their kings.

In order to convince you that I have not bestowed undeserved praises in my former letters on this celebrated government; and that either nature or the climate seems to be more favourable here to the arts and sciences, than to any other American province; let us together, agreeable to your desire, pay a visit to Mr. John Bertram, the first botanist, in this new hemisphere:  become such by a native impulse of disposition.  It is to this simple man that America is indebted for several useful discoveries, and the knowledge of many new plants.  I had been greatly prepossessed in his favour by the extensive correspondence which I knew he held with the most eminent Scotch and French botanists; I knew also that he had been honoured with that of Queen Ulrica of Sweden.

His house is small, but decent; there was something peculiar in its first appearance, which seemed to distinguish it from those of his neighbours:  a small tower in the middle of it, not only helped to strengthen it but afforded convenient room for a staircase.  Every disposition of the fields, fences, and trees, seemed to bear the marks of perfect order and regularity, which in rural affairs, always indicate a prosperous industry.

I was received at the door by a woman dressed extremely neat and simple, who without courtesying, or any other ceremonial, asked me, with an air of benignity, who I wanted?  I answered, I should be glad to see Mr. Bertram.  If thee wilt step in and take a chair, I will send for him.  No, I said, I had rather have the pleasure of walking through his farm, I shall easily find him out, with your directions.  After a little time I perceived the Schuylkill, winding through delightful meadows, and soon cast my eyes on a new-made bank, which seemed greatly to confine its stream.  After having walked on its top a considerable way I at last reached the place where ten men were at work.  I asked, if any of them could tell me where Mr. Bertram was?  An elderly looking man, with wide trousers and a large leather apron on, looking at me said, “My name is Bertram, dost thee want me?” Sir, I am come on purpose to converse with you, if you can be spared from your labour.  “Very easily,” he answered, “I direct and advise more than I work.”  We walked toward the house, where he made me take a chair while he went to put on clean clothes, after which he returned and sat down by me.  The fame of your knowledge, said I, in American botany, and your well-known hospitality,