January 18, 1996

Dear Mr Plant:

I appreciate your prompt reply to my letter concerning the origin of the domestic fowl and your publications relating thereto. As you say, it appears we are on the same wavelength on this subject. Personally, I place very little credence in work such as that of Dr Barbara West.

Perhaps you will find the enclosed copy of an old article on hybridization interesting. I later tried crossing a silver pheasant cock with a red junglefowl hen, but there was no natural mating.

There is no doubt in my mind about the Sumatra being a domesticated junglefowl. Recently this new fowl, the Saipan Junglefowl has shown up, but I haven't tried to learn what it is or where it came from. It is being advertised at some very high prices.

I can understand health problems slowing you down. I was born in 1910 and have had cataract surgery in both eyes. About ten years ago I was diagnosed to have glaucoma and macular degeneration, however, both have responded to treatment and have not worsened. I use Timoptic drops for the glaucoma and by taking 25,000 units of Beta-Carotene a day the macular degeneration has been stabilized. Otherwise, I am in rather good health for my age.

I started judging poultry and pigeons in the late 1930s and last year was the first year I hadn't judged a show. After judging for 50 years I decided to retire, but would still do one or two small shows a year until 1995.

Keep up your good work.

Sincerely,