Transcribe Holder, Joseph B. Letter to Ward, Henry A. (1873-07-29)

American Museum of Natural History, CENTRAL PARK. New York, July 29th 1873. Headquarters U.S. Commission- Fish & Fisheries - Peak's Island, Portland, Me. Prof Henry A Ward. Dear Sir,

   Your letter of June

1st reached me about the time I was hurrying to make ready for the present excursion. I at once made inquiries, and found that Prof. David had secured the refusal of the Manatee in case of its death. Your letter re- mained, with others, on my table for attention, but in the bustle of preparing for this absence, I packed it with my papers, and now at last have unearthed it.

  Wm. S. Conklin is the name

of the "Director of the Menagerie at Central Park"