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Washington, Saturday, July 10.

My dear brother Arthur:  Have been expecting to write you for some time, but have waited till my affairs were closed up in such shape that I could tell you what I am going to do. 

Wednesd y [[Wednesday]] next Laura and I sail for Europe, by the St. Louis, to be gone about six or seven weeks. I go to make arrangments [[arrangements]] for another Arctic [[strikethrough]] onwure [[/strikethrough]] venture. That is, if everything goes right. I am going to London, Norway and Russia. Unless I strike some snag I shall announce my expedition before my return. As yet it is unknown save to a few freinds [[friends]]. Mr. Koblsaat is very much interested in it, and will do everything he can. He promises to help me raise the money, and I think I shall be able to raise a fund ample for my needs.

I enclose you a circular which gives all the facts. You will notice that I am to be out one winter. Unless Andree spoils the game with his balloon plan, or something else occurs, I think I shall be in the fight again.

If it were not too hazardous for the Wellman family I should want you with me. Perhaps you might go as a financial man, anyway, and not make the whole trip. We shall have to take that up later on.

During my absence in Europe Mr Towne, who is my assistant, her on the Times Herald may ask you for some money to take care of one or two affairs of mine that I am leaving in his charge. It will not be much, and may not be anything at all.

Ruth and Rose are going to Canton in a day or two. The other children will stay here with two servants, who are very trusty.

Youmay [[You may]] be glad to know that I have secured a pension for father of eight dollars a month, with a year's back pay. I have advised him of it. Mr Evans, the commissioner of pensions, is a warm friends of mine, and I did not have much difficulty in getting it pushed through.

Laura has just had a letter from Emma which she will answer before we go away.

You have not written me much of late, nor I you. I had hoped to see you in Nashville, as I did not know you had gone west some tim [[time]] before, I saw Mr and Mrs Hamilton and the boy and girl. They told me of your illness. If you had let me know at the time I should have gone down to see you.

Before I sail I will drop you a line telling you of my address in Europe, so you can communicate with me if there is need for it or you feel like writing. We shall be delighted to get letters from you if you will send them. When one [[strikethrough]] in [[/strikethrough]] is in a strange country he enjoys letters from home more than usual.

I hope you will at least write me what you think of the polar plan.

With love to all.

Your brother,

Waller Wellman