RKFP-019

Cleveland July 8. 1850 -

"Verily, saith the good book "there is a time for all things" - but [illegible] faith I can hardly find the time to keep up correspondence with those I esteem most. Kirtlands seedling cherries, with[strikethrough] added to examinations of other varieties already named. & also strawberries, have kept me busy as a nailor all the time that I could find to devote to such work - Many of Kirtlands seedlings that have heretofore been only 2d rate have come out fine - three or four more worth a name. McIntosh in order to play the devil & make it appear this fall that it was all gammon about Dr Kirtland not favoring their Society has dogged the Doctor & with others have coaxed him into sending some of his cherries to their Exhibition. It is strange to me. after the Doctor, has publicly condemned that Societys cause - but its a fickle world - & men love soft soak and popularity -

Dougall was down here some two weeks or more since & Barry was here last week The latter asserts he is not[underlined] writing a book - - perhaps not -

As regards that bill I am told

by there pretty comment with things at Washington that it will not pass this session –

I hope they are mistaken. I have no doubt of you having aid enough t[strikethrough] to get the appoint -ment provided always. it has not been promised - This is what I suspect - but as long as we do not know it, why we'll keep working for our friend Kennicott -

And now my good friend when will be my best time to visit you to see such of your early apples pears &c as will be passed & gone before our Congress?

I shall sell the Nursery at Auction in September the Wednesday following our State Fair & shall issue the Catalogue & [illegible]

Early in August - Very truly thine, in Haste F. R. Elliott

To J.A. Kennicott M.D.

[written in pencil faintly] 10 10 10[strikethrough]

[postmark] CLEVELAND JUL 9 O.

[written] Free[underlined]

[stamped] 10

[written] J. A. Kennicott M.D. Post Master The Grove Cook Co Ill -