[58]

34

advised to the Captain of 31 Police Presincts?

"Sir,

Can you communicate to us any well authenticated case of [hydrophobia?] in dogs in your Presinct, during the 2 months ending 27 Aug [?"].

To this [inquiry?] 29 Captains replied that no authentic [case?] [had?] [illegible]; but in the 1st. 13th. & the 25th those seems to exist [an?] impression that [one?] [case?] in each Presinct existed, and was [treated?] as such by the destruction of the animal. Without attempting to discredit the opinions thus offered, I would remind your Honor, of the fact that dogs are frequently rendered mad by cruel treatment in the streets, but such madness is not Hydrophobia, although killed under that impression.

It results, therefore, from the foregoing experience ,that the [illegible] [note?] slaughter of these [harmless?] & [illegible] friends of mankind, [illegible] practised by order of the City authorities; may be dispersed with without detriment to the physical, moral, or pecuniary interests of the public.

To have saved to the city Treasury about $3000 during two months; may be regarded with contempt by those who profit by a lavish expenditure of the city's funds; but it is simply a question of time & circumstance, to swell this sum to colossal proportions. And to effect this it is only necessary to increase the reward offered, when, in obedience to the [laws?] of demand and supply, every neighbouring County & State will speedily employ its canine resources to satisfy the demand.

Trusting, therefore, Mr. Mayor, that the Dog Pound will henceforth be abolished:

I have the honor to remain

Your most obt servt

Henry Bergh President