University of Vermont Libraries' Center for Digital Initiatives

Dear Baird

I am ashamed of the offence I am going to commit, and I ask your pardon in advance. I know you have things enough to do without being pestered by a wild man up in Vermont, but what shall I do? I am writing seven books, each in seven quarto volumes, all to be finished in seven weeks from this date, and I want to steal all I -------------------------------- Page -------------------------------- can to fill up with, for which purpose I want all my books at the Smithsonian, together with certain packages which Gilliss will send you from his house. I believe you wrote me they were boxed. I am glad if that job is over, but if there is anything unpacked, please let the parcels be as few as may be in regard that Express men charge by the piece, and their consciences are like paxwax, ( I don't suppose you know the etymology of paxwax. No more do I, but it resembles the Spanish pescoro, and may be it is the same word) -------------------------------- Page -------------------------------- I think you told me once there was some cheaper way, half express & half not. Well send them any good route that won't take forever -- Also, let me know cost of boxes, nails, broken hammers, waste paper, torn book-binders cuttings, hay straw and stubble used in packing, and cartage, and everything else. Verily, I will repay the same.

I am very glad the war folks have adopted the General's book. I am visitor at West Point this year, which gives me the title of Marshal, I think it is, and of course I outrank -------------------------------- Page -------------------------------- the General.
Mrs Marsh is so so and send love.

Yours truly

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