Varadero 
January 29, 1958 
Dear Dr. Schmitt': 
I cannot thank you enoxigh for your kind letter of recent date 
which outlines so clearly the activities which will encompass the 
forthcoming Smithsonian-Bredin Expedition to the Leeward Islands 
and which I have been priveleged to join. 
It will be possible for me to be with you for a period of three 
weeks, more or less, depending presumably upon what return arrange- 
ments I will be able to make from some central point that we will 
touch at. I will shortly make enquiries with the airlines on this 
although I will not be able to make any definite return reservations 
until I know the expedition’s itinerary. 
In line with your suggestion, I believe I will have shipped on 
ahead two shell traps, floats and the necessary line. Also 
the Needham scoop dredge; the latter could be useful in gathering 
Crustacea as well as mollusks. Don’t believe there would be much 
point in bringing along a dredge inasmuch as you mention that two 
will already have been sent down for the trip. Eacemask, flippers 
and snorkels will also go along, and in this connection I believe 
I will take a duplicate set with me among my personal belongings 
just in case anything should prevent the timely arrival of the 
heavy stuff. 
It is of course perfectly \inderstood that all material that I 
am able to collect will be the property of the USNM, and if the 
duplication is sufficient I will later acquire vdiatever can be 
spared. 
I do not have a good camera, but will take along a Brownie 
iiniiftrwflter one with which 1 have quite good luck at times. It uses 
XX or XXX 620 film. All pictures taken, if worthwhile, to become 
the property of the expedition also. 
Bunking up on the transome will be just fine; even the ship’s 
rigging would suit if my going on the trip depended on it J.’ Am a 
good sleeper anywhere. 
I suppose the gear which I am shipping ahead can be sent in > 
care of Captain Nicholson, mentioning the expedition name, etc. ( 
I can’t begin to tell you what a thrill this atoti® trip means 
to me. It is an opportunity of a lifetime, especially considering 
the fine group of men that will make up the party. 
care 
There is no need to send me the fare money, we can take/of 
that on the trip. 
Mr. Irenee left on the 25th after a short stay here. I am sorry 
to say that he did not have good weather for his altogether too short 
so j ourn . 
Thanks again for your fine letter and good wishes which we all 
heartily reciprocate. 
Most sincerely. 
