352 APPENDIX. 



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 government 

 desires the choice should fall on one possessing the necessary qualifi- 

 cations 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 appoint- 

 ments 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 appointment 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 Expe- 

 dition, 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 con- 

 sulting Commodore Ridgely, — well known in the service for his high 

 sense of honour, and thorough knowledge on all points of etiquette and 

 duty, and for whose judgment he had great respect, whose decided 

 opinion and advice was, that it was his duty, as an officer of the 

 government, under the circumstances of the case, to accept the com- 

 mand and go out in the Expedition, — Captain Hudson sent the following 

 acceptance. 



