Transcribe Allen, J. A. Letter to Lucas, Frederic A. (1881-05-31)

that the paint used on the legs of herons, cranes, ducks, & other large birds does not </u harden > but remains sticky & comes off on my hands whenever I happen to take hold of them. I do not know that this is the case with all but is with a large number. Cannot this be avoided by using some kind of paint that will dry & stay dry? It is certainly quite an annoyance in handling the specimens. even in those sent 6 months to a year ago.

                Very truly yours
                              J A Allen

[in another hand - upside down May 31. 81] [ybg]