Hovember iH, 1938 
Lt.-Comdr * T . J . Kelley, U.S.B. 
U.S.S. HCXFSTOH 
Long Beach, California 
Bear Mr. Kelley: 
naturally, I am sorry to hear the sad news about the sail- 
fish heads, hut I do hope that you will drop the matter of disciplin- 
ing those responsible for throwing them overboard. Perhaps I should 
have wired you instead of using air mil. It is true that orders 
should be carried out regardless, but I do not know whether the sail- 
fish were worth having the crew get down on the scientific angle of 
things . 
We would be very glad to have specimens of sailfish, and 
the fact that you may get a chance to get something for us next spring 
will more than make up for the loss. Should you want to eat what you 
catch, the heads will always bo acceptable. Then again, you know the 
President may be persuaded to repeat that cruise. I certainly would 
like to go over the same ground and get some of the things that I 
missed here and there. 
It is too bad the sailfish were thrown over the side, be 
cause we were all up on our toes in anticipation of the specimens, 
there is no use crying over spilt milk. Better luck next time. 
My best to you for all your efforts in our behalf. My kin 
regards to the Captain and to Commander Bailey, too. Remember me to 
all the rest of our mutual friends on board. 
Sincerely, 
* 
* 
Waldo L. Schmitt, Curator, 
Division of Marine Invertebrates. 
