Linnaeus is overwhelmed with work and has not been able to answer Pehr Kalm’s letter until now [this, or these letters have not come down to us].
He has finally received a letter from Pehr Elvius, saying that the instruction for the project [Linnaeus refers to the plans to send Kalm to Noth America and Canada) should be drawn up with the assistance of Sten Carl Bielke. He and Kalm can present the project, and Linnaeus will sign it and send it on the same day, but it is urgent. Linnaeus must have the document this week. They must stress the following objects and benefits of the project:
to collect various seeds of grass that can endure our climate.
to acquire many species of trees that are economically useful and can thrive here.
many of the most important plants in our gardens originate from Canada and endure our winters without special protection.
Canada can offer mulberry-trees, sassafras, Radix Ninsi etc.; only one of these would defray the expedition one hundred times,
not to mention the scientific value to the Acts of the Academy.
Linnaeus wants Kalm to draw this plan and send it to Linnaeus for him to sign, otherwise it will not be done before Christmas.
Linnaeus sends his regards to Bielke and promises that his application will be treated favourably.