26 Oct 1848 [2] (seq. 217)

I suppose it will be of no use to ask Horsford or
Webster. The latter I don't like to ask a favor of &
the former is doubtless pledged to Gibbs. If you think
he would give a general opinion — without being informed
what place I am seeking — perhaps it would do for you
to ask him for a short note. You may say that it will
be useful to me. I sent him a pupil lately — for
which he expressed thankfulness —

This matter, & my bot. lectures have kept me
so busy that I have had no time for any thing else.
I must succeed, if I can make the Committee
hold back. If, however, Gibbs, (who will be the
man, if I fail) & his friends know the position of
affairs, they will (especially if they have active friends
in the Committee) urge the nomination immediately.

If you can get any thing out of Horsford, please do
so without delay — for there is not a moment to
be lost —

There is a parcel for me at the store of Jas. Munroe & co.
Boston, lately sent from England. The charges are $1.25. I
enclose a dollar & some post office stamps, (to save weight). Will

[pencil note in Gray's hand: no enclosure]

you take the trouble to call for the parcel when you happen to
pass the store & keep it for me.

Much will depend on my success in the matter of the Free
Academy as to my future plans. If I am nominated
(which will be equivalent to an election) I shall probably make
a disposition of my house at Princeton immediately — but
probably not remove the family until spring.

Give my love to Jane & Carey. Yours ever —
John Torrey