p.1

Milwaukee Dec 7, 1871

Dr Sir

I have been able
to give so little attention
to the duties of President
of the Wisconsin State Historical
Society during the time
I have held that office
I doubt whether it is
right for me to continue
in the same; & therefore should
there be any disposition to
confer that honor upon
me again, at the next
annual meeting, I
beg you will
do me the favor to
make it known to the
society that I do not
wish to be considered
a candidate for the office.