Architectural Rooms of S. V. Shipman, Architect
Office Architect, Northern State Hospital for Insane
161 LaSalle Street,
Chicago, Dec 13th 1881

My Dear Draper:

After reading your favor of the 7th inst. it did not seem possible for me to go to Madison to confer with your Executive Com. without a sacrifice of the last shred of self respect on my part. I am still of that opinion; and while Col. Keyes has my promise to go there with him, on this business; I shall "beg off" if possible; and refuse if I must.

You have spent the best part of your life in building up the State Historical Socy. and have succeeded -- on the most paltry pittance, in the matter of compensation.

Many of the Comm.. have become rich, while you are poor. How many of them would give $10 to secure a building costing $100.000.00? How many of them would object to my bearing the whole burden (cost) of making Plans to enable them to get this large donation from the State, in a form to greatly benefit Madison, and afford lasting pleasure to the citizens?

What Keyes asked me to do, to aid in this enterprise, I intended to do without hope of fee or reward; hence the action of the Ex. Comm. surprises and disgusts me.

It is barely possible that I have misinterpreted their feelings and motives. Mr. Gregory did not call on me while in the city; and this confirms the impression received on reading your letter.

If you think my services, in preparing sketches, with which to show the Legislature what you want, will be of any value to you, come down here, and spend a day or two with me, at my house, and I will show you several sketches of such a building as I think you need; and will make others, to meet your views. After which I will give you a neat Perspective drawing that will take the eye of the Legislature, and be something tangible, to act upon.

I will be at home on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday next; and, both the wife and myself will be delighted to have you with us.

Do not stop to hunt up objections to leaving Madison, for a day or two, but consider the advantages of a little change of air and scene to yourself, and ask Vilas, or Gregory, for a Pass to Chicago and return, and make your way to the Train, which will soon have you here. Will you do this?

Sincerely your friend
S. V. Shipman