THE YOUNG PROFESSOR 163 



Dana's advice in regard to communicating with 

 Pickering was promptly followed. 



From Spencer F. Baird to Dr. Charles Pickering. 



CARLISLE, Feb. 27, 1847. 

 DEAR SIR: 



Some weeks ago I received a letter from J. D. Dana, stating that 

 in reply to a letter from yourself urging his application for the Curator- 

 ship of the Smithsonian Institute, he had suggested my name for 

 the situation. On the supposition that you were not a candidate, 

 he advised me to take such steps as might tend to secure the place. 

 I accordingly did so, by writing to such of my friends as I supposed 

 to have influence, but have heard nothing definite on the subject. 

 In all I did I was actuated by the belief that you were not a candi- 

 date, as I would hardly be so presumptuous as to think for a moment 

 of entering the lists with a man who combines in himself the scientific 

 accomplishments necessary to make a dozen eminent naturalists. 

 In case you do not want the place, may I have the benefit of your 

 advice as to how I had best proceed for the attainment of my 

 object. . . . 



No reply to this letter is among the papers avail- 

 able. 



A response from Professor Henry indicates the delay 

 which might be expected in the appointment of a Curator. 



From Professor Joseph Henry to Spencer F. Baird. 



WASHINGTON, March 3, 1847. 

 DEAR SIR, 



Your letters and testimonials in relation to the office of Curator 

 in the Smithsonian Institution have been received and put on file 

 to be considered when the time arrives for the appointment to be 

 made. The Board of Regents I think will not appoint a Curator 



