This postcard addressed to Prof. E. S. Morse, Salem Massachusetts is dated Dec 17 / 75 (1875) with a Montreal postmark and a fancy cancel.
The sender of this postcard was none other than John William Dawson (1820-1899). He was a Canadian geologist, paleontologist, and educator known for his significant contributions to the study of geology, paleontology, and natural history. Dawson took the time to correspond with Professor Morse. Their exchange centered on Morse's "First Book of Zoology," a noteworthy publication. Morse, at the time, had aspirations of raising funds through the sale of this very book to support his upcoming expedition to Japan in 1877.
This postcard not only carries the weight of historical significance but also serves as a tangible connection between two prominent figures in the scientific community of their era. It provides a glimpse into the scholarly exchanges and ambitions that shaped the development of zoology and geology during the late 19th century.
The note reads:
Many thanks for your first book of zoology which has many pleasant ways of teaching zoology, and will have no doubt be very useful, especially when you add to it the xxxx and xxxx. Why do you use the word cockle for univalve shells. In English the word is invariably used for candium. I was not aware that any one had changed the meaning. / xxxx you / JW Dawson
It appears that Dawson has some concerns or criticisms about the book of zoology. Dawson's tone seems somewhat critical.
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