278 SPENCER FULLERTON BAIRD 
From Spencer F. Baird to Capt. D.G. Farragut,* Norfolk, Virginia. 
Wasuincton, May 24, 1852. 
Dear Captain :— 
Dr. Brewer was taken sick the day he expected to start, and did 
not go. He will be along at Norfolk some time this week. Much 
obliged for the preparations and prospects in regard to Fish. I doubt 
not of finding many nice things among your collections. Get the 
marine devils by all means. The fact in regard to the poisonous 
nature of star-fish is very interesting if true. Please make further 
inquiry and verify it. 
Sincerely yours, 
S. F. Barrp. 
The delinquent members of the American Association 
caused the Treasurer and Permanent Secretary much 
trouble and some pecuniary loss. The following letter 
from the former explains the situation: 
From Dr. A. L. Elwyn to Spencer F. Baird. 
Puita. June to, 1852. 
My pear Proressor:— 
I sent to you, two days ago, a list of those who had not paid. 
I find my situation a very uncomfortable one, exposing me to 
much inconvenience and some insult, but I bear it as well as I can. 
The idea seems to have got into men’s heads that they were never to 
be called on for any payment. Many have intimated this. 
I ask what means of support has the Association but by these annual 
payments. 
H. seemed to think only those who attended were to be 
called on. I put it to him, how could it be expected, that one hun- 
8 David Glascow Farragut, Admiral U.S.N., the hero of Mobile 
Bay; born near Knoxville, Tennessee, July 5, 1801, died Aug. 14, 
1870. 
