Perceval Bequest

27 ALS (some partial) William Buckland from William Baker, dated 1841-1849.

Mostly concern specimen collections, particularly perforation to rocks made by garden snails, a "Bone Bed", and Cannington Park limestone; sends samples of rock, newts, frogs, etc.; publication of Buckland's books on British quadrupeds and reptiles; includes a clipping about a meeting of the Ashmolean Society at which Dr. Buckland talked about a particular species of frog (E.29); some discussion of belief: "Gray's little book is invaluable and will convert the sceptic; reassured him that people will accept his investigation of God's work and evidence of existence before the human race" (E.32); repeated comments about the procurement of cider. Several letters include sketches, notably a coloured pencil sketch showing cross-section of the quarry at Cannington Park containing the red sandstone (E.15).