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[[centered]] [[underline]] 16 [[/underline]] [[/centered]] Having received leave of absence from the museum for two years from July 31st 1886, it becomes necessary to make provision for proper care of the collections during my absence. I have, therefore, already recommended that Mr. R. W. Deering, should be [[Strikethru]] appointed [[/strikethru]] placed in charge of the work during this time. During my absence I shall endeavor to add to the collection such specimens as I may be able to secure in the various countries I shall visit, and will endeavor to give general direction to the work so far as that is possible by correspondence. [[right justified]] Respectfully [[R??]] Hitchcock [[/justified]] July 1886