1 66 SPENCER FULLERTON BAIRD 



influence, and when I see Mr. Choate, as I hope to do soon, I think 

 I can prepare him without difficulty to sustain your husband. 



Professor Henry is very favorably disposed, and I think every- 

 thing looks well. I do not think the appointment will be made at 

 present, which I do not regret, because I hope I shall be in a position 

 to exert more influence next winter than now. . . . 



Toward the latter end of March hoping to see him, Pro- 

 fessor Baird made a short visit to Philadelphia, but found 

 Mr. Marsh had left the city. He had left some valuable 

 books from his library for Baird's use, and promised more. 



In response to Baird's request for testimonials came 

 the following characteristic letter from John Cassin: 



From John Cassin to Spencer F. Baird. 



PHILADA. 16 Feby., 1847. 

 DEAR BAIRD: 



Your letter did not catch me in time for a reply earlier than 

 to-day. I have been absent from the city since Saturday morning. 



Enclosed I hand you my opinion of you sorry it is no better 

 but wish swearing to the truth of it (to the best of my knowledge 

 and belief) would be of any service. 



But what can I do alone? Why not get, or let me get for you a 

 lot of other names, Phillips, Conrad or Doctor Wilson, or others 

 better known than I am. I will write a lot of certificates and make 

 the fellows copy them, so it will have a particular sort of look hope 

 you will get the place but my dear fellow, even in science, things 

 go so much by influence, and a mutual assistance understanding, 

 that absolute merit is frequently smothered and often overlooked 

 hope you will get it though command me to the end of the world, 

 and I will go, or at least try to. 



If this certificate don't suit, write one for yourself and (I will) 

 copy burn this letter though it wouldn't look well in our published 

 correspondence a hundred years from this. 



In a hurry write early. 



Very truly yours, 



J. CASSIN. 



