RK-062

April 23, 1855 [Stamp] Smithsonian Institution Washington D.C. My Dear Robert, I received your letter yesterday with its enclosure which is decidedly a new mouse to me. It is not Dr. Hoys mouse for the Prairie, although your No. 2, may be the same: but the present one agrees in many respects with Mus Michiganen- sis. The only difference is that Audubon & Bach. describe a more yellowish cast on the cheeks, which however may readily be the difference of season. In the short tail, dark line on the back, short feet, and of dusky color &c it agrees perfectly. Get many of these as you can, and with many specimens of the other two you mention, we shall work out this great problem.

The specimen came in good order, the head a little flatten ed only. In sending such things, always place the head in the lower left right hand corner of the envelope. Where the stamp is never placed.

I certainly won't let you pay for those pins, and will be glad to send you as many more as you want. We are under greater obligations to you then can be repaid by such trifles. Let me know when your stock is out. [Illegible] have me the slightest intention of letting you incur any expense for alcohol &c. I will send the 5.00 either today, or when I can put some small gold to mail.

I do not care yet to have any insects: I will wait till the collection of vertebrata is finished. I do not know whether the Insect vol. of NYork Nat. Hist. can be had separately, but will enquire and let you know.

I sent the blanks to give you an idea of the principal measurements desirable of mammals, so that when you have the time you might record the dimensions of the more interesting ones.

Suppose you insert a notice in the prairie farmer requesting all persons to send you information of habits of gophers and other mammals as well as specimens. we will pay freights &c

Yours truly S.F. Baird

Robt. Kennicott West Northfield Ill