RK-234

Milwaukee Jan 13th 1857

Dear Sir

I would be glad to be with you to-night, and help to organize an institution devoted to the interests of the study of nature, but must deny myself that pleasure. Perhaps I shall be able to meet with you occasionally and to do something from time to time to promote your laudable objects.

There are friends of science enough in and about Chicago to keep such an Institution in active operation; and you have rich men enough to sustain them by providing the necessary funds. ~ I hope the present effort will be successful; and that hereafter we may hear of your "Academy" taking rank with the older Institutions of our land. ~

Very truly yours I.A. Lapham

R. Kennicott Esq.