THE YOUNG PROFESSOR 195 



husband is afraid of appearing importunate, but as it is a matter 

 of some moment to us, and occupies much of our thoughts, my 

 feminine curiosity will not allow me to remain quiet. 



About two weeks ago Mr. Baird wrote to Prof. Henry on this 

 subject, and some scientific matters, in reply to a letter which he 

 had just received from Prof. Henry; he supposed his letter would 

 have been answered before this, but not having heard, I am afraid 

 it is lost. Do you know whether Prof. Henry received Mr. Baird's 

 letter? If you can let me know, you will oblige me very much. I 

 am aware this must be a busy time with you, and perhaps this is 

 troubling you too much, but I think you will appreciate my uneasi- 

 ness. And especially, I beg you will attribute this letter to me and 

 not to Mr. Baird. 



Yours, with much respect, 



MARY H. C. BAIRD. 



Mr. Jewett was the exceedingly capable librarian-to- 

 be, for the Smithsonian, and at that time in close contact 

 with Professor Henry's plans and the preliminaries of 

 organization. He had already met Mrs. Baird and 

 formed with her a friendly intimacy. 



From C. C. Jewett to Mrs. S. F. Baird. 



WASHINGTON, 29 Nov. 1849. 

 MY DEAR MRS. BAIRD, 



Since receiving your favor of the 2ist inst. I have been watching 

 for an opportunity to converse with Professor Henry respecting the 

 appointment of Mr. Baird. I found it yesterday and will tell you 

 the result in a few words, which, so far as it goes, is favorable to 

 your wishes. 



The only obstacle, so far as at present appears, to an immediate 

 nomination is the want of funds. Till March 1852 nearly the whole 

 income of the Institution is, by a financial scheme adopted by the 

 Regents, to be devoted to the erection of the building. Till then if 

 the public ask for the bread of intellectual life, they must receive 



