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November 1st,1899.

Mr. W. K. Bixby,
Care Amer. Car & Fdry. Co.,
Empire Building, 71 Broadway,
New York City.

My dear Mr. Bixby:-

I was much surprised this afternoon to receive a call from Mr. King, the young engineer to whom you have assigned the designing of the steel cars, and to learn from him that he had hastily tendered his resignation in writing to Mr. Eaton yesterday. In answer to my inquiry he stated that he felt he had not been given the title he wanted, and that his work was not appreciated, &c., &c.. Knowing his value to your company and appreciating his future chances, I urged him to permit me to telegraph Mr. Eaton withdrawing his resignation. At first he strenuously objected but I finally induced him to take my view of the situation and I believe he is now fully convinced that he made a mistake.

The fact is, Mr. King is rather a difficult man to control. He very much needs encouragement and a few pleasant words occasionally, go a long way with him.

He is now reconciled to go on and carry out the work you have assigned to him and I am confident when you return from Italy you will find that he has done his work well. His services are in demand and two different concerns have asked me several times to break the ice so that they might approach him, but I have declined to do anything of the kind, believing that he would be better off with you, and knowing very well that you would have much difficulty in replacing him.

It is with regret that I advise you of this matter now that you are about to start on your pleasure trip, but I felt is my duty to do so and hope it will cause you no annoyance. 

Pardon me if I suggest that you drop a line to McBride and tell him to be courteous in his communications with King, and avoid any friction by "rubbing the fur the wrong way".

Let me add my best wishes for a very enjoyable tour for both yourself and Mrs.Bixby. I know you anticipate a happy time, and believe you will surely find your paths leading amidst pleasant ways.

Yours very truly,
Charles L Freer