446 JOURNAL OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. 



ing to the publications of the Institution, I should he glad to furnish the plate, either 

 with line or ruled engraving, and on copper or steel, as may be preferred. Having 

 prepared a large model of Smithson, (the portrait filling a space of 5^ inches diam- 

 eter,) which is admitted by all, who have compared it with the original bronze cast, 

 to be a perfect likeness, I can afford it at a less cost than others, and of a quality 

 equal to any. 



I can furnish either the line or ruled engraving, though would recommend the 

 latter as decidedly preferable on several accounts. It can be engraved much deeper, 

 without affecting the shading or other parts of the work ; and consequently will 

 afford a much greater number of perfect printed impressions — I should think twice 

 as many as the line engraving. 



Having a perfect model, and doing the work by machinery, the likeness must bo 

 equally so. 



The bold strong relief which this kind of engraving gives, is, in my opinion, much 

 handsomer than a picture. Samples of which I exhibited to thee — mais chacun d son 

 gout. 



I have now secured the likeness of Smithson on the steel seal, beyond all doubt of 

 failure ; and as soon as I get through with Government, for the United States dis- 

 trict, county of Florida, will resume, and soon finish the Smithson work. The Flor- 

 ida work is very pressing. 



I am, with much respect, thy friend, 



EDWARD STABLER. 



A first-rate steel plate with line engraving will cost about $200 to $225. The same 

 by ruling I can furnish for $150, more durable, and more beautiful. 



On motion, it was laid on the table. 



The chairman also submitted the following additional letter, just 



received, from the same gentleman : 



Sandy Spring, September 9, 1847. 

 Colonel Seaton. 



Esteemed Friend : After much delay, partly owing to an unusual press of Gov- 

 ernment work, and indisposition during most of the warm season, I am enabled to 

 send thee a proof impression of the Smithsonian seal. It is not quite finished in some 

 portions, but I do not propose to make any material alterations. I would like thy 

 opinion on it before hardening, for after that it cannot be altered. 



Make the proper allowance for the difference of relief in the bronze cast, and this, 

 which is adapted for sealing purposes, and it is doubted whether a better likeness 

 could be had. It is by far the most tedious and laborious piece of work I ever exec- 

 uted, or ever intend to do again. 



Some considerable time since, I requested to be informed whether I should prepare 

 a mahogany or cherry stand and case for the press. Those for the Departments are, 

 I think, without exception, made of mahogany. They are the best, and in the end, 

 the cheapest, I find, for they are not so much affected by the changes of weather, and 

 consequently better protect the press from dust. 



As this shall be the best piece of work I ever put together, I would like to furnish 

 a mahogany stand and case with glass doors, that will show the work to advantage,, 

 and show the " increase " of this kind of knowledge. 



The difference of cost between the two kinds (i. e., the cherry and mahogany) is 

 only some $8 or $10, and as furniture, is worth the difference, to say nothing of the 

 beauty. The whole will bo under lock and key, and as it will be little used until the 

 buildings are completed, I would also suggest that, for the present, it be placed in the 

 National Institute. It will probably benefit me in my business, much more than this 

 job itself will. 



Please advise me, as early as may be convenient, so as to have the stand and case 

 prepared in the best manner. 



I will also thank thee to inform mo of the residence of Robert Dale Owen, and also 

 of Dr. Owen, as I wish to send them impressions of the seal. 

 I am, with much respect, thy friend, 



EDWARD STABLER. 



On motion of Mr. Seaton, it was — 



Resolved, That Mr. Stabler be authorized to furnish a mahogany stand and case for 

 the seal of the Institution. 



