p.2

be promoted - as he has
intimated an intention of
doing something for the Society
- something clever, we sh'd. [should]
hope.

There is a feeling with
me & others who have spoken
on the matter, to re-elect
you, sh'd. [should] you desire it. You
have now served us ten
years as our President -
& Gen'l. [General] Smith eight years before
you - Gen'l Smith having first
been elected in Jan. 1854, & you
in Jan. 1862.

Pray write me frankly
& freely. Our Library report
will figure up 50,500, [bound?]
[& numbered?] - a pretty respecta-
ble collection.

God bless you!

Ever Yours Most Sincerely,

Lyman C. Draper

Will you be able to meet with us
Jan. 2d evening?