RK-477

[printed letterhead] Office of the "Hamilton Freeman," WEBSTER CITY, IOWA, [handwritten] Feb 25 [printed] 1858.

[handwritten] My Dear Sir - Having "scraped" acquaintence" with your father, who is a relative of my family, & had some correspondence with him, I predicate on that the liberty to ask of you a little favor. I am anxious to procure the publications of the Smithsonian Insti= tution, & if you are situated so as in any manner to aid me, I shall duly appreciate the favor. I wish to get the Annual Reports, if they are to be had, & any other scientific documents that are publicly distributed.

I am the oldest son of Elizabeth Nichols (that was). I used to go to see "Aunt Jane" & "Uncle Jonathan" Johnathan" Kennicott in New Albion K.Y. years & years ago. Their names have always been "household words" with us

Your father wrote me that you were at the Smithsonian Institution - hence the reason of my addressing you there

I am publishing a paper here - a great distance from shore - but in a town of "magnifiant prospects" - if they ever eventuate in anything

But enough at this time. Leet me hear from you, if you have the time

Yours very truly Chas Hamin ALDRICH

Robt Kennicott Esq