Transcribe Ward, Henry Levi. Letter to Ward, Henry A. (1881-08-20)

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       I would like to be with you and try a hand

at the sea-birds you write of. Hope you find lots of Dugongs etc. I mentioned that Chas. had been hurt in the eye. It must be alright now as no mention has been made of it in the few letters I have received from home.

       I guess Mr. Chapman will suceed in his search

for the almighty $ as he seems to have the right amount of "puck" and "cheek".

       As to my reading. I try to keep posted on

the newspaper literature., Scribner's Monthly etc. Am reading Pope's translation or mutilation of the Odyssey. It is so horribly sing songy that I guess that I will give it up and try Bryant's.

       I have also been doing some Antient History, such

as Alex the Gt. etc.

       As to Elocution - I recommence that on my

return to Roch. I belong to a debating etc Society termed Pi Phi. 'Tis among the Academy students.

       It gives some excellent practice as the criticism of

opponents is apt to be very sharp and unsparing, of course without being degraded to bulldosing.

       This tending exhibit is first rate practice to

enable one to speak unconstrainedly and to be able to recall facts on the instant.