
          this is written from it will go very [inserted: far] towards insuring
 my continuance. If you are personally acquainted
 with [Soucy or Goff?] or any member of the Cabinet
 the letter may be addressed to them - if not so
 acquainted a more general testimonial will
 answer as your official and your scientific position
 are well known and acknowledged even by politicians.
 When you have leisure to write the thing please
 inclose it to me as I propose to visit Washington
 and deliver my documents in person.


 Respectfully & sincerely
 Your obliged friend & servant
 William E.A. Aiken


 Prof. John Torrey


 P.S. Could you send along a note of introduction
 to Prof. Henry of the Smithsonian with a hint as to
 what I would like him to do for me - i.e. to
 say a good word in the right quarter. I
 would like to make his acquaintance.
        