972 LETTERS ON PROGRAMME OF ORGANIZATION. 



From Mark Hopkins. 



"Williams College, 

 WiLLiAMSTOWN, Mass., November 24, 1848. 



I have received a copy, forwarded by you, of the pro- 

 gramme of the Smithsonian Institution. It meets my 

 hearty approbation, and is probably as perfect as any thing 

 of the kind can be without experience, and I have no sug- 

 gestion to make. 



In such an enterprise much must depend on the officers, 

 and I am gratified to know that thus far the selection has 

 been such as to deserve and receive universal confidence. 

 If any co-operation of mine should be needed, it may be 

 relied on. 



From Enoch Pond. 



Bangor Theological Seminary, 

 Bangor, Me., November 24, 1848. 

 I received this morning your favor of the 17th with the 

 accompanying papers. I have perused your programme 

 with much interest. It seems to have been drawn up with 

 care, and with a due regard to the will of Mr. Smithson. 

 I think of no additions or improvements. It meets my cor- 

 dial approbation. 



From Charles J. Whipple. 



Salem Atheneum, 

 Salem, Mass., November 27, 1848. 

 The programme of organization of the Smithsonian In- 

 stitute meets our approbation ; one question is naturally 

 suggested after its perusal, viz : can all the objects proposed 

 be accomplished in the true spirit of the original design ? 

 If in the affirmative — then the institution will be a noble 

 afiair — -just what is wanted at this time to meet the wants 

 of the age. It has our hearty co-operation, and we should 

 be pleased to contribute our mite towards aiding the insti- 

 tution to carry forward successfully all their plans. 



From H. J, Ripley. 



Newton Theological Institution, 

 Newton, Mass., November 27, 1848. 

 I have been directed by the faculty of this institution to 

 acknowledge the receipt of your communication with ac- 



