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APPENDIX. 
have formed, from the testimony of your brother officers, of your 
character and abilities, render me exceedingly desirous of securing 
your services as its second officer. Not only is it of great importance 
that the commander should have as his second in command, an officer 
in whose zeal and efficient co-operation he can rely, but the govern- 
ment desires the choice should fall on one possessing the necessary 
qualifications in case of an accident to that officer, to carry out the 
objects of the Expedition, and to conduct it in safety to our own 
shores. With these views and wishes, I have seen, with regret, that 
a mere matter of etiquette prevents you from engaging in a service 
for which you are so well fitted. 
Regarding as I do, the practice of giving officers temporary 
appointments, as illegal, and prejudicial to the service, I could not 
recommend to the President to sanction its continuance for three 
years longer, by granting such appointments to the officers of the 
Expedition. 
It does not, however, appear to me, that this decision ought to 
present an obstacle to your accepting a command under Lieutenant 
Wilkes, whom you rank by what must be considered an imaginary 
line. 
If the Expedition were of a military character, I would not attempt 
to combat your scruples ; but it is purely civil, and even should a war 
break out between the United States and any naval power, your path 
upon the ocean would be peaceful. 
It is the opinion of the President, as well as my own, that an 
Expedition, undertaken to promote science, and extend the bounds of 
human knowledge, ought to command the services of all who can 
contribute to its success, in whatever station it may be thought most 
advantageous to place them ; and I venture to hope, that waiving all 
claim to superior rank, you will accept the command now tendered 
you. 
I am, Sir, respectfully yours, 
(Signed) J. R. Poinsett. 
III. 
After Captain Hudson was assured that a General Order would 
be published, divesting the Expedition of its military character, and 
consulting Commodore Ridgely, well known in the service for his 
