DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

WASHINGTON, D. C.,

Cambridge, Mass. May 24, 1892.

My Dear Prof. Marsh:

Returning from a journey I find two telegrams from you urging me to send despatches to members of the Lower House, asking to have the appropriation for paleontology reinserted in the Bill. I have not complied with your request for the reason that I have tendered my help by telegram, letter or in person to the Major and to Gilbert, saying to them that I should be glad to act in the time and in the manner which seemed best and have been told in effect that at the right time and if occasion demanded I would be called on.

My own experience with legislative crises shows me that irreparable harm may be done by the best meaning persons interfering with plans. More than onceI have been brought to the verge of calamity by such well meant but misdirected endeavors.

I hold myself ready to go to Washington on a day's notice. Basing my opinion on conjecture I am inclined to believe that the plan will be to endeavor to secure a proper consideration of the matter in the Senate leaving it to the conference Committee to deal with the other wise minded House.

Yours most truly,