Sundown.—To Hill and Island.

  Have noticed within a week, from time to time, the water-line on the bushes along the shore—the water going down—unusually distinct . . .

  As I return in the dusk, many nighthawks, with their great spotted wings, are circling low over the river, as the swallows were when I went out. They skim within a rod of me. After dusk these greater swallows come forth, and circle and play about over the water . . .

  Dear Sir,

  I shall be very glad to help you collect the Nymphaeaceae &c, and to spend another day with you on our river, & in our fields and woods (Concord Saunterer 15, no. 2 (Summer 1980):1-2; MS, private owner).

  I forwarded by mail a copy of my “Week” post paid to James Newberry, Merchant, Rochester, Oakland Co Mich, according to your order, about ten days ago, or on the receipt of your note. I will obtain and forward a copy of “Walden” & also of the “Week,” to California, to your order, post paid, for $2.60 The Postage will be between 60 & 70 cts.

  I thank you heartily for your kind intentions respecting me. The West has man attractions for me, particularly the lake country & the Indians. Yet I do not foresee what my engagements may be in the fall. I have once or twice come near going West a-lecturing, and perhaps some winter may bring me into your neighborhood, in which case I should probably see you. Yet lecturing has commonly proved so foreign & irksome to me, that I think I could only use it to acquire the means with which to make an independent tour another time.

  As for my pen, I can say that it is not altogether idle, though I have finished nothing new in the book form. I am drawing a rather long bow, though it may be a feeble one, but I pray that the archer may receive new strength before the arrow is shot.

  With many thanks

  Yrs truly
  Henry D. Thoreau