1883-05-25 Letter: W. H. Hudson to J. W. Lovering, Mealy bugs, "Antidote more objectionable than the pest itself," 2014.020.008-012

Subject: Antidote more objectionable than the pest itself.

J. W. Lovering Esq.

Supt Mount Auburn Cemetery

This sample (Yeels Compound) I send you for the destruction of greenhouse pests is the result of five years carefully conducted chemical experiments by a wealthy Lady who resides on the bank of the Hudson River near N York she has five greenhouses and grapevies for her private use she has chemical tastes, and when the mealy bug presented himself with no antidotes but something more objectionable than the pest itself she set herself the task to find some remedy and the result is attained in a compound healthful to the plant and harmless to humane life but totally destructive to the general pests which infest the greenhouse she now believes it prevents mildew also as none has appeared in her house since its use now more than a year while previously it has been present to considerable extent - I send this sample that you may test it in freedom and if I shall do as stated, it will do others good to know the fact from you by means of what you may honestly say of the compound - I shall be glad to hear from you as soon as you may have opportunity to satisfy yourself in the matter.

W. H. Hudson 5 Temple Place Boston Mass.

May 25\83