Chicago, April 1st 1879

My Dear Draper:

Having had the occasion to consult the Wis. "Blue Book", I find all commencing with 1859 to 1879 inclusive, except 1861 + 1863. And have duplicates for 1866, 1868, 1870 and 1877.

I had supposed myself possessed of a complete set; but not being able to find the two vols. named, am extremely desirous of getting them.

Can you tell me how I may be able to obtain them? I will gladly exchange the fours duplicates for the two missing sets.

It is the old story of the "ninety and nine" being of small account while the one is missing.

During the years "61 and "63, I was occupied with matters pertaining to the "unpleasantness" and am now inclined to the belief that I never had those two vols.

All well here.

Sincerely your friend
S. V. Shipman

Am pained to hear of the Fairchild Block disaster.