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,