...if Douglas was in any doubt about the success of his journey, others were quick to laud his achievements. The Horticultural Society were well pleased:
"This mission was executed by Mr Douglas with a success beyond expectation: he obtained many plants which were much wanted, and greatly increased our collection of fruit trees by the acquiring of several sorts only known to us by name. it would be unjust here to omit mentioning the uniform kindness and attention with which he was received [no mention of Mr Prince] in every part of the United States that he visited. It is gratifying to have to add, that the presents of cultivated plants embraced nearly everything which it was desirous to obtain; and that the liberality with which they were given was only equalled by the hospitality with which the collector was received."
De Witt Clinton wrote to the Society that "He unites enthusiasm, intelligence and persevering activity....and appears to me to combine the essential qualities required in trusts of this nature."
High praise indeed for someone still sometimes described as "the shyest being" and ere long Douglas would be honoured by enrolment with the New York Horticultural Society as a corresponding member.
Douglas has begun to make his name. Barely six months later he will be back on the high seas en route to the Pacific North West where his further adventures collecting for the Society will cement his reputation as one of the greatest plant collectors of his day.
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