I must observe, also, that the horns of the deer, which
accompany these spoils, are not of the fifth or sixth part of the weight
of some that I have seen. This individual has been of three years
of age, according to our method of judging. I have taken measures,
particularly, to be furnished with large horns of our elk and our deer,
and therefore beg of you not to consider those now sent, as furnishing a
specimen of their ordinary size. I really suspect you will find that
the moose, the round-horned elk, and the American deer are species not
existing in Europe. The moose is, perhaps, of a new class. I wish these
spoils, Sir, may have the merit of adding any thing new to the treasures
of nature, which have so fortunately come under your observation, and
of which she seems to have given you the key: they will in that case
be some gratification to you, which it will always be pleasing to me
to have procured; having the honor to be, with sentiments of the most
perfect esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble
servant,
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER CI.--TO MR.
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