APPENDIX. 
435 
It is presumed that each officer has availed himself of every oppor- 
tunity of aiding, by individual collections, this most important depart- 
ment of the Expedition. 
Charles Wilkes, 
Commanding Exploring Expedition. 
U. S. Ship Vincennes, 
Orange Harbour, Terra del Fuego, 
April 16th, 1839. 
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS IN RELATION TO THE COLLECTION AND 
PRESERVATION OF SPECIMENS, SHELLS, ETC. 
The undersigned, commanding the Exploring Expedition, has 
examined the collections called for by him, and finds, with much 
regret and mortification, that few or none have been made. 
The object of this communication is to avoid any misapprehension, 
hereafter, in regard to the orders heretofore given by the Navy De- 
partment and myself, requiring the collection and preservation of all 
shells, specimens, &c. 
To the country belong all our labours, and it being the earnest 
wish of the government, that as large and extensive collections as 
possible be introduced into the United States by the Exploring Ex- 
pedition, it is the duty, and should be the wish of every officer, to 
afford all the aid in his power in effecting this object. 
Any selfish ideas of accumulating for ourselves, I trust are laid 
aside, particularly when it is considered that the opportunity of 
effecting this object will be much greater, by united and general 
collections and preservations, as all which are left, after the govern- 
ment are supplied, would undoubtedly be returned to those who had 
collected them, if desired, in preference to others. 
It is believed, that with proper exertions and attention, a sufficient 
number can be obtained during the cruise, to supply every one who 
may desire it, from the general collection. 
No expense or means will be spared by me on the part of the 
government, to place every article in the most secure state of pre- 
servation and safe keeping ; this could not be done, if all specimens 
are retained by the persons collecting them. 
1st. Hereafter each officer will avail himself of every opportunity 
