1850 TO 1865 331 
particularly want is specimens of the quadrupeds, such as the rabbits, 
squirrels, wild rats, mice and moles, kangaroo rats, &c. The very 
commonest about the post are the most wanted, they can be easily 
preserved by skinning, and putting arsenic on the skin; or a mixture 
of alum and saltpetre, or by throwing into alcohol or spirits of any 
kind. I will mail a pamphlet to Capt. Gardiner which will explain 
the modus operandi. Skulls of bears and such larger animals would 
also be highly valued. 
Specimens can always be sent us from San Francisco without 
cost if addressed to the Smithsonian Institution, and delivered to 
Messrs. Forbes and Babcock, agents, in San Francisco, of the Panama 
line of steamers. 
Mary says the point of my letter is that portion relating to speci- 
mens, but I say it is not—I wanted to write to you by return mail 
to assure you that your letter was received and valued. As to news 
and all that, I never could do much; Mary as soon as able will attend 
tothat. . . . Kindest regards to Capt Gardiner, I am 
Very affectionately yours, 
S. F. Barren. 
From Spencer F. Baird to Dr. Leonard D. Gale. 
Wasuincton, April 5, 1856. 
Dear Sir:— 
I am in receipt of your note of Thursday asking what I know of 
Dr. J. S. Newberry of Cleveland, and asking my opinion of his quali- 
fications as Professor of Natural Sciences in Columbian College. In 
reply I beg to state that I have long been acquainted with Dr. New- 
berry and have all confidence in his ability to fill the above Chair 
in such a manner as to enhance the already high reputation of the 
College. He is about thirty five years old, and a physician of great 
skill, having graduated in his profession in the city of Paris. During 
the several years that he resided in France, he studied the different 
branches of Natural Science with several of the professors of the 
Jardin des Plantes, and obtained a very thorough foundation in this 
#3 Associate of Professor Henry in electrical research and later 
examiner in electricity in the U. S. Patent Office. 
