34 BULLETIN OF THE ESSEX INSTITUTE. 



out just as I expected that an inevitable engagement in the Supreme 

 Court at Washington on that day -will keep me away. 



I well remember the foundation of the Essex Institute and its fee- 

 ble beginnings, and have watched with great pride and interest its 

 sure and steady progress to its present high position of influence for 

 good. 



It is not only the pride of Salem and of Esses County, but is hon- 

 ored wherever its work is known. Its publications have been of 

 very great value, and I have particularly enjoyed its historical re- 

 searches which I hope may be continued with renewed vigor, for I am 

 satisfied that much remains yet unpublished of local history which 

 Avould be of great general interest. 



Wishing you a most successful celebration, and prophesying a great 

 future for the Institute, I am 



Most truly yours, 



Joseph H. Choate. 



President Rantoul alluded to the Peabody Academy of 

 Science as "our neighbor across the way," and said that 

 the two societies lived on such terms of unbroken amity, 

 of undisturbed harmony and mutual helpfulness, as almost 

 to presage the millennial era. He asked Acting Presi- 

 dent S. Endicott Peabody, who sat behind him, to respond 

 for the Academy, but that gentleman excused himself, and 

 Professor Edward S. Morse, the Curator of the Museum, 

 was presented. 



Professor Morse said : 



The Peabody Academy of Science, as custodian of the 

 natural history collections of the Essex Institute, has en- 

 deavored to present to the public a well-arranged, well- 

 labelled and well-lighted museum. The Institution 

 founded by George Peabody of London was specially 

 organized to diffuse knowledge not only in Essex County 

 but, as Mr. Peabody expressed it in his letter of trust, 

 " our common country as well." It is believed that a 

 public museum, open every day in the week and free to 



