RK-371

[printed letterhead] No. [written] 966 [printed] Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D. C. [written] July 21 [printed] 18 [written] 57

My Dear Robert

I have answered I believe all the questions put me in the various letters received. I say decidedly go to Red River if you can do it under the circumstances you mention.

I greatly regret that I cannot find a dipnet as I expected, and it would take several weeks to have one made

As to birds, confine yourself to the sparrow-like species especially those of the prairie. A few good yellow hinded blackbirds would be well to have. Let the ducks alone, get the gulls, and a trumpeter swan or two.

Leconte has gone to S. America. Not to be back until

[page turned, stamped on left margin] J. Kennicott Brenton Collections

fall or winter. I believe we could have the beetles pinned here quite well. His man who did the rough work (Guex) is dead, and I am afraid he wont find it so easy. I suspect under present circumstances you will have to do the pinning yourself or have it done.

I dont believe alcoholic insects would exchange very well in Europe

You can easily arrange the legs of your dried insects afterwards by exposing for a few hours to a damp atmosphere

I wrote that the electrolytes of your cuts would only cost 20.00 not 25.00

I will send the Melsheimer Catal. to Mrs. Newell. Always most happy to oblige the ladies

I would not ask for any gratuitous facilities of Mr Kettson. Perhaps he may offer some never mind lots of Buffalo skulls. Bring a few, they will exchange well. We have plenty for ourselves

Yours truly SF Baird

Robt. Kennicott Chicago