350 SPENCER FULLERTON BAIRD 
From Spencer F. Baird to R. Kennicott. 
April 7, 1861. 
Dear Ros:— 
I have now I believe finally completed all preparations for the 
campaign, and enclose sundry and various inventories of things sent. 
In addition to what has already been referred to, we have just packed 
another box for Gov. McTavish, containing, besides some things for 
him and Donald Gunn, one package of scissors and large blow pipe 
and labels addressed to you at Ft. Simpson, another of things to be 
left for you at Fort Chipewayan, and a package of books for Mr. Ross. 
Also, we sent 12 of the Agassiz coffee cans, each holding three 
gals. These to be filled with 95% alcohol at Chicago, and 3 lbs. of 
arsenic in two boxes, placed on top of the cans inside the box. They 
will be screwed down and iron strapped, marked “Poison Preserving 
Fluid,” but no poison actually introduced into the spirit. 
This will make nearly 100 lbs. of arsenic to different points which I 
hope will satisfy even your inordinate demands. About 42 gallons 
95% alcohol this year and about 20 last year with shot, bottles etc. 
ad libitum, should meet any ordinary demands. I hardly think the 
Arctics will want any supplies of this kind in addition for some years 
to come. 
We have already sent $250.00 to Mr. Hopkins, and if, as promised, 
Prof. Agassiz makes his big subscription, we shall have $200.00 or 
$250.00 more to go. This will, I hope, put you well in funds. What 
the freights on all the things for St. Paul are that we shall have to 
pay, I have not the slightest idea! 
Mr. Woodworth, I am sorry to say leaves us this week. I shall 
miss him greatly. My brother Sam goes out to your father’s this 
week. I hope they will like him and make him useful. 
I don’t think of any news at present, but may be able to send 
some in future letters. I shall send an invoice of books sent to each 
party. 
I will tell Mr. Campbell to use what he needs of supplies sent for 
you to Chippewayan, not exceeding one third. 
Sincerely yours, 
S. F. Barrp. 
