Letter, from Thomas Maclear to Sir John Herschel, dated at Royal Observatory, Cape of Good Hope Autograph letter signed by sender. Illness in the family has prevented him from acknowledging John Frederick William Herschel's splendid work, which arrived some weeks ago. Is grateful for John Frederick William Herschel's appreciation of Thomas Maclear's work. Wife has been very ill. C. F. H. Ludwig has died. H. G. W. Smith has said there must be a Botanic Garden at the Cape. New treaty regarding Kaffir land may increase the chance of peace. 19 January 1848