Note 20 — LETTER III
Reading edition
John Mease, a wealthy and philanthropic Philadelphian, was born in 1771. Although a graduate of the Medical College of the University of Pennsylvania, he did not practice regularly, but devoted himself to literary and scientific pursuits. In association with David Rittenhouse and other members of the Philosophical Society, he was engaged in numerous undertakings for the betterment of the city. His Picture of Philadelphia, published in 1811, was for many years the best travellers’ guide thereof.—Ed.