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Varadero Beach

June 11, 1959


Dear Dr. Schmitt:

I am very grateful to you for your recent letters and all the information contained therein concerning the rather unusual malady which the three of us contracted, obviously on the island of Barbuda.  I was quite sure that it must have been picked up there as soon as I heard that Darsie and Cowan were the other victims inasmuch as the only occasion that I accompanied them ashore was the visit to the caves.  No, I did not drink any of the water in the underwater stream, but I do remember choking while in the water as I adjusted my mask and possibly at that time got some water in my lungs.  I think your theory about the bats dying off as a result of a severe epidemic among their numbers is a very interesting observation, and might prove to be the right one.  There was certainly a very definite strong odor in the air indicating that bats had probably frequented dark cave in the considerable numbers not too long ago. Also, the entrance to the cave was very narrow, precluding the entrance of air to clear things up. 

It was almost three weeks before I felt normal, but I believe all the antibiotics which were administered me probably had something to do with that.  I read in a book on medicine recently, that this form of treatment for histoplasmosis - which of course is a fungus, is the worst method of treatment, inasmuch as antibiotics kill off all the benign bacteria in the body which would normally set up resistance to it.  It is hard to say whether or not the cortisone pills, which I took ultimately, actually succeeded in helping me or whether I simply improved with the passing of time.  None of the doctors here were able to diagnose what I had, simply stating that I had a virus fever of some nature.  Apparently they have had no experience with histoplasmosis.  I intend, eventually, to contact the Speliological Society of Cuba to enquire whether any of their members have ever experienced complaints approximating our symptoms.  I will keep the x-ray taken of my lungs in case it is desired for comparison.  It is certainly gratifying news to learn that one gets life immunity after a bout with the pesky business.  I can now say that I am feeling fine once again.

Enclosed are the plane ticket stubs which can serve as more concrete vouchers for the disbursements which appear in your expedition expenses.  

Please let me know the cost of the light meter in order that I can send you my check.

There was no duty to pay on the brandy.  The customs were good to me, both in P. Rico as well as Cuba.  I informed Bruce of your gift to Mr. du Pont in order that he may relay notice of your gifts to Mr. du P. inasmuch as he may not come down to Cuba for awhile yet

Please don't bother about the watch as I am not in need of it.  You can give it to me when we meet again.