From S. F. Baird   3 May 1881

Dear Sir.

I take the liberty of introducing herewith in the Bearer, Capt. Wheeler of the United States Engineers, an officer of the American Army, who has had charge, for many years of one of the most important of expeditions of this Government, namely, that west of the one hundredth meridian.¹ His many magnificent volumes, covering all manner of science, geographical geological, zoological & botanical have made him known in Scientific circles everywhere.

Commending him to your kind consideration, I remain, | Very respectfully | Your obedient servant | Spencer F Baird | Secretary Sm. Inst²

Charles Darwin Esq.