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November 14, 1938

Lt.-Comdr. T. J. Kelley, U.S.N.
U.S.S. HOUSTON
Long Beach, California

Dear Mr. Kelley:

Naturally, I am sorry to hear the sad news about the sailfish heads, but I do hope that you will drop the matter of disciplining those responsible for throwing them overboard.  Perhaps I should have wired you instead of using air mail.  It is true that orders should be carried out regardless, but I do not know whether the sailfish were worth having the crew get down on the scientific angle of things.

We would be very glad to have specimens of sailfish, and the fact that you may get a chance to get something for us next spring will more than make up for the loss.  Should you want to eat what you catch, the heads will always be acceptable.  Then again, you know the President may be persuaded to repeat that cruise.  I certainly would like to go over the same ground and get some of the things that I missed here and there.

It is too bad the sailfish were thrown over the side, because we were all up on our toes in anticipation of the specimens, but there is no use crying over spilt milk.  Better luck next time.

My best to you for all your efforts in our behalf.  My kind regards to the Captain and to Commander Bailey, too.  Remember me to all the rest of our mutual friends on board.

Sincerely,

Waldo L. Schmitt, Curator, Division of Marine Invertebrates
WLS:LMc