160 SPENCER FULLERTON BAIRD 
general. With this view I have consulted all the Catalogues, great 
and small, of England, France, Germany, Holland, &c. which I 
could find. I have had the honor of being called on to assist in per- 
fecting the great Bibliographia Zoologica of Prof. Agassiz, and to 
furnish various lists of desirable books in different branches of Zoology 
and Natural History to different persons in societies. 
You will, I hope, pardon me for having said so much about myself 
and for repeating what I wrote to you before. May I hope for speedy: 
information as to what are the possibilities of success, and whether 
any election has been decided on to take place shortly. I have the 
permission of the writers of the accompanying letters, Dr. Morton, 
Mr. Cassin, J. J. Audubon, James D. Dana, and of others as Dr. 
Gray, Major LeConte, &c. to use their names as reference. 
Very respectfully 
Spencer F. Barrp. 
The testimonials follow: 
Copy of Testimonial from James D. Dana. 
New Haven, Feb. 7, 1847. 
I take pleasure in giving my unreserved recommendation to 
Prof. Spencer F. Baird of Carlisle, Penn. for the Curatorship of 
the Smithsonian Institute. To a general acquaintance with Natural 
Science and a thorough knowledge of some of its departments, he 
unites a character of the highest excellence. He is habitually accu- 
rate in investigation, and is well acquainted not only with specimens 
in his favorite branches, but also with the literature of science. In 
the situation of Curator, I cannot doubt that he would give perfect 
satisfaction and prove an honorable addition to the scientific corps 
at Washington. James D. Dana. 
Copy of Letter from John J. Audubon to S. F. Baird. 
Miwnnre’s Lanp, Feb. 11, 1847. 
My pear Frienp:— 
I have great pleasure in answering your letter desiring me to 
give my opinion as to your qualifications for the post which several 
