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^[[219]]
      Smithsonian Inston
      Nov. 18th 1876
Dear Baird
       I do not see the necessity of immediately bringing the Smithsonian specimens to Washington. They can be retained in the government Building for a month or two until congress can have time to act on the proposition which will be presented in the [[?]] of the [[?]] to make provisions for bringing the whole government exhibition to Washington.

We can not advance the money for the transportation without [[?]] the statement of accounts to the Regents at the beginning of the year; and I cannot allow the incurring of a debt to the transportation company for which the Inston will become liable, and for which