Downing Aug. 30^th. 1771.

Sir

I much rejoice that there is now some prospect of ascertaining the Lyres. Be so good as to shew it to my friend Doctor Ramsay who will inform us whether it be nondescript, & settle this long wished for point. I have engraven the birds you mention. I suppose they are what I call the Auk, & the Puffin.

The drawing of the small snipe will be most acceptable.

I shall be very happy to see the Insect whose classical name shall be sent you. All communications from the W. Indies will be acceptable.

My Synopsis of Quadrupeds has been published these 3 months.

The 2^d part of the 4^th vol. Br. Zool. oct^vo concludes that volume. It is impossible to say when the whole will be concluded, for tho’ much has been done, much is yet to be done particularly in respect to crustacea, testacea & molluscs. Any rare N. British productions of those classes will be most acceptable to,

Dear Sir,
your most obed^t Serv^t

Tho. Pennant.

I hope I do not mistake your saying that Letters come free to you.

M

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