48 



Tlicy will be described by the scientific member!) of the lustitutioii, and their uses 

 und advantages pointed out, and the specimens exhibited to the public in its mu- 

 seum. 



You arc respectfully requested to bring with you, on your return, such speci- 

 mens as von may collect during thc-cnsiiing recess. Even a single specimen from 

 each member will be of great advantage to the Institution, and be thankfully re- 

 ceived as a tribute to science. 



We have the honor to bo, sir, your most obedient servants, 



J. R. POINSETT, 

 J. K. PAULDING, 

 To the Hon. ■ Direclors. 



A letter was read from Lieutenant W. D. Porter of the 

 United States Navy, dated the 17th January, 1S40, and was 

 referred to the Directors, who were requested to carry into ef- 

 fect, if in their power, its suggestions. 



Extract from Lieutenant P(>rter''s letter. 



'*Thc Army and Navy could be made bcnelicial to the Institution. There arc 

 many in both branches who would, no doubt, employ their leisure in obtaining 

 specimens and information, provided they were directed in the right way. A 

 cabinet could be placed on board uf all our sea-going ships under the charge of the 

 commander, in which might be deposited specimens by all persons desirotis of 

 making donations, to be finally sent to Washington. By such an arrangement 

 the society would receive duplicates which might be jjresenled to the colleges and 

 museums of the country. Cabinets at all the army and naval depots might in the 

 same way be made highly useful. The donors and collectors would feel them- 

 selves amply rewarded by knowing they were aiding in the diffusion of useful 

 knowledge in their country." 



Information has been received that about 150bo.\'cs, the re- 

 suhs,asfHras have been received, of the Exploring Squadron's 

 exertions, containing a variety of interesting objects of Natural 

 History, and destined for the cabinet of the Institution, have 

 been shipped at Philadelphia, and are expected as soon as the 

 navigation opens. In consequence of the statements contained 

 in the following co'mmunication, the spcchncns will not be 

 handled luitii all the necessary arrangements .shall have been 

 made: 



" It would be uuadvisable to break open the cases containing the articles collect- 

 ed by the 'South Sea Exploring Expedition, until such period as they arc intended 

 to be prepared for exhibition. 'I'bis refers to the zoological and ornithoiogicnl de- 

 parlnicnt ]>tincipally. 



