December 
-£5 
e-or'e- 
ir 
Sirs 
Reference is made to a memorandum dated November 30 , sub¬ 
mitted to Brigadier General E. F. Bullene, Office of the Chief, 
Chemical Warfare Service, with regard to a proposal involving 
certain experimental work to be performed on the island of San 
Jose in the Perlas Islands of Panama. The advice of the Smith¬ 
sonian Institution was requested in this matter in view of certain 
biological aspects concerned. In the final paragraph of the 
memorandum in question it was suggested that the services of a 
biologist be made available in an advisory capacity, and as an 
observer for part of the period of the experiments in question. It 
is my understanding that General Bullene has approved this suggestion. 
In accordance with this suggestion is made that Dr. Alexander 
letmore. Assistant Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, and 
Director of the U. S. National Museum, be authorized to accompany the 
party engaged in the work under discussion for part of the period. He 
has special qualifications for such service as he has had wide field 
experience in the American Tropics. 
If this proposal is agreeable, the Smithsonian Institution will 
cover any expenditures incurred by Dr. Wetmore and will carry his 
salary. It is our feeling that the observations of a trained biologist 
will have distinct value since the island in question is one that is 
not well known from a scientific standpoint. 
If this matter is approved it is suggested that details as to 
procedure be arranged direct between Brigadier General Bullene’ 3 staff 
and Dr. Wetmore. 
Tour consideration of this request will be much appreciated. 
Respectfully yours. 
Secretary. 
The Honorable, * 4 
The Secretary of War, 
Washington, D.C. 
