S. V. Shipman
Architect
Chicago, Ill, April 11th 1877.

My Dear Draper:

Your letter of yesterday has just been placed on my table, and I hasten this informal reply.

Having occasion to go into the Building where Mr. Warren's office is, I called on him yesterday, to inquire how he liked Madison; and was informed by him that he had not yet been there, to see you!

He said he had been so fully occupied here, it had not been practicable for him to go to Madison; but said he would at once write you, and arrange to go at the earliest possible time.

I presume you received his letter about the same time yours reached him this morning.

Did you see the lengthy notices of subscription Book Publishers, here in Chicago, which appeared last week in the "Quten Ocean", -- Thursday or Friday last, I think. If not I will try to get a copy and send you.

Do not let the matter be even whispered there in Madison, of your having thought of severing your connection with the Society.

The next Legislature, we may hope, will be a more respectable one, and make some reasonable acknowledgement of the invaluable services you have rendered the Society, which has so honored the state of Wis.

Should you think well of Chicago, let me know of it, and I will talk the matter to our people. Until you say the word, I will of course keep mum.

Would it not be well to hold on to the paltry salary you are now getting until times are better -- say two years longer; in the meantime, push your Historical works, which promise the largest renumeration.

This question of bread and butter must not be overlooked. Make your combinations first, and then retire behind a good strong line of battle.

It is perhaps your duty to wait, and give the Legislature the opportunity to offer some reparation for the great wrong done during the late onslaught.

With kind remembrance to Mrs. D. I remain

Faithfully your friend
S. V. Shipman