Chicago, IL
Mar. 9th 1877

My Dear Draper:

Your favor of yesterday is just at hand. The action of the Assembly in neglecting my claim, is scarcely a surprise, although Col. Vilas, wrote me, he hoped it would pass. The question of justice and right never comes up in the mind of the average legislator.

I am amazed at the announcement you made, of the raid made on yourself and the Historical Socy. It is simply outrageous, and stamps the active men in the movement as dastardly ignorant or corrupt image-breakers. It is shameful in the extreme.

It is some consolation to know the Senate did not permit the "buccaneers" of the Assembly to cripple the Soc'y to the extent contemplated by the nefarious Bill.

This, I take it leaves the appropriations the same as last year.

If the State of Wisconsin has not sufficient pride to want the Perkins Collection, retained in the state, I will undertake to raise the money on call, to purchase it, at an advance on the price you were to pay for it.

What is the origin of this attack on you -- and the Society? Your communication is the only thing I have seen on the subject, except the fact, that some inquiry had been started, as to what interest the State had in the collection.

Have you any spy, under Executive sanction, in the Rooms of the Society?

I have no very exalted opinion of the present Governor. His ultra partisanship renders him blind to what is right.

It is a matter of profound regret that I find it impossible to help you as suggested. To attempt to collect money earned here, beyond barely enough to meet current expenses, results only in disappointment; --- and I have only a small fraction of the amount asked, on hand, at the present time.

I would most gladly aid you, if it were possible. What you have said on the subject is received in strict confidence. The note is destroyed.

As soon as advices are received from Col. Vilas, it is my intention to go to Madison, and put my claim in suit, and have it pushed, with all reasonable dispatch to final settlement.

On the first convenient opportunity, I will call again on Moses Warren, but I fear he is not in shape to undertake any large enterprise at this time.

Faithfully your friend,

S. V. Shipman