( Copy. )

Wm McMahon, 40 and 42 Wall street, New York.

April 2nd, 1890.

Prof. O. C. Marsh,
President National Academy of Sciences,
Yale College, New Haven, Conn.

Dear Sir:

About two weeks ago I took the liberty of addressing a letter to you asking your opinion of the value of an expedition to re-locate, as closely as possible, in the light of the increased knowledge and improved instruments of the present day, the north magnetic pole.

Since then I have been greatly encouraged in my undertaking, as you will see by enclosed copies of three letters, selected from many which I have already received in answer to similar inquiries.

I am also constrained to believe that I will receive the necessary financial backing from private sources, especially as Prof. Mendenhall and others in Washington are prepared to furnish me with the necessary instruments further than those now in my possession.

I would very much like to have your endorsement of the value of the work proposed, as, from your own profound knowledge of physics and your official position, your favorable opinion would have great weight in the minds of those whose aid I shall seek.

New Haven, Conn., April 12, 1890.

W. H. Gilder, Esq.

Dear Sir: -

Your two letters and the accompanying documents relating to your proposed expedition to investigate the north magnetic pole were duly received, but I have not yet been able to give the subject the attention it deserves. I can only say now that the investigations you propose are of great importance, and if conducted systematically, with proper instruments, would undoubtedly lead to important scientific results. I have submitted the matter to Prof. W. P. Trowbridge, of Columbia College, and he approves of it fully, as do several other experts whom I have consulted informally. I will write to you more fully on the subject later, and in the mean time, wish you all success.