22 Dec 1863 [2] (seq. 794)

business & on some other matters re-
ferred to me. As soon as I return from
Washington, I hope to set my face
toward Cambridge, & have a pleasant
visit with.

Rood was elected yesterday! All
the trustees were present, with the
exception of Dr. Spring, who is too infirm
to attend. Twenty members voted. Rood
had 12 votes, Peck 8, & {F.A.P.} Barnard 2. This
was at the first ballot — which decided the
matter. The meeting was called to re-
ceive the Report of a Committee on
Credentials. {L.M.} Rutherfurd prepared it, — a lucid
impartial statement. We were at first
disposed to have another meeting next Monday
— & to vote at the regular meeting Jany. 4th
— But after some discussion, it was resolved to
read the principal testimonials, & proceed
to elect at once — a decision that none looked
for at the beginning of the meeting — Rood's
friends were rather afraid to venture, but

I ascertained, by speaking to some that
were thought to be Peck's friends, that there
was little risk. We went forward. You cannot
think how much I feel relieved. The greatest
efforts were made by Peck friends to secure
his election —& a week ago it was thought
he would succeed. Now we have a real
genius, & a hardworking man, who is also
a first rate teacher.

The trunk arrived Saturday night before
last — all right.

It is time to break off & I must hasten
up town. Give my love to Jane & tell
her that she has acted wisely to omit the
usual Xmas party. All will respect the
necessity. She must take good care of herself
this winter. I will write again be-
fore going to Washington.

Yours ever
John Torrey