George W. Holley

Geo. W. Holley

to

Pres't Andrew D. White

about telescope lenses

Ans'd to Mr. White April 18.

[?] March 19, 1885.

My Dear Sir:

It is of course natural for men to have unbounded faith in their own 'doxies' and an equally strong disposition to [ride?] their own 'hobbies' to which fact the world is vastly indebted for its progress in civilization. Learning through Mr Alvan Clark of the almost hopeless attempts of the builders of the great Lick Telescope to secure a lense only 38 inches in diameter and seeing no reason why one of 10 feet diameter if needed, cannot be made by the proposed new method of construction, I am prompted to make an effort to utilize it. Among those who

recognize the entire originality of the

4 or 5 feet diameter. If Senator Stanford should so far approve the project as to consent to subscribe the half of the fund the larger instrument could bear his name and be erected near the fine museum it is reputed he intends to establish at Palo Alto, Cal'a, or on some of the suitable elevations that may be found in the dry, clear atmosphere of Arizona or New Mexico, an interior location whose climate and sky are worthy rivals of those of Chaldea. The smaller instrument might be set up in connection with the Signal Service at Cornell, a proper building for which could be erected at a very moderate cost.

In the mean time while waiting to hear from Senator Stanford I would endeavor

to secure the balance of the fund nearer [home?]. The object is certainly a most commendable one and no discredit can result from failure to accomplish it. I have written the other letter which accompanies this thinking it may be useful as a text - rather a long one, certainly - for your communication to Senator Stanford. I enclose also, a copy of the paper read before the A.A.A. for the same purpose. If you conent to present the matter to Senator Stanford perhaps you will be willing to state to him that you will endeavor to be certain of the faithful application of the fund to the purpose intended.

Very cordially yours

George W Holley

President White.