124 
R. JENNINGS, JR. 
New York, March 28th, 1863. ^ 
207 Fourth Avenue. ^ 
Dear Sir, —I observed in a recent number of Wilkes' Spirit 
of the Times that at a meeting of veterinary surgeons lately held 
in Philadelphia, it was proposed to form a “National Veterinary 
Associationthat resolutions to try and effect that purpose had 
been adopted; that Mr. Wisdom and yourself were requested to 
correspond with “ such members of the profession as they may be 
acquainted with, soliciting their aid in support of the proposed 
measure and their attendance at the Convention when held.” The 
wording of the resolutions would seem to debar all who are not 
veterinary surgeons from taking any part or interest in the forma¬ 
tion of the association. Although not a veterinary surgeon, I am 
deeply interested in all that pertains to that much (in this coun¬ 
try) neglected and important science. I have been for some years 
trying to elevate that branch of comparative anatomy to a more 
eminent position than it occupies at present. It will afford me 
much pleasure if I can in any manner assist you or your associ¬ 
ates in perfecting the object proposed. I think with you that the 
time has come for veterinary surgeons and others practicing or in¬ 
terested in the art to claim for themselves a status to which they 
are, when properly educated, entitled. I think New York would 
be the most appropriate place for the first meeting, and that 
Agassiz would be the most suitable person to deliver the intro¬ 
ductory lecture. I believe my suggestion would meet the views 
of our mutual friend Mr. Copeman. Hoping that your “long 
cherished desire” may be speedily accomplished, 
I remain, very respectfully, 
R. Jennings, Esq., John Busteed. 
V eterinary Surgeon. 
124 MacDougal Street, ) 
New York, May 4th, 1863. 5 
Dear Sir, —In answer to your letter of May 2d for your 
kindness in appointing me as one of a committee for forming a 
National Association to advance veterinary science in this coun¬ 
try, where it is greatly needed, I am obliged to decline the honor 
