Publication InformationSmithsonian InstitutionWashington April 1 1882

Dear Mr Marsh:

In a letter which I wrote you some time ago, I promised to send you a copy of the specifications of the 'Albatros,' the new Fish Commission Steamer, which we are building for the purpose of scientific exploration in the deep seas, and now take great pleasure in fulfilling the promise.

Yours very truly,Spencer BairdHon. Geo. P. Marsh:U.S. Minister,Rome, Italy.

References in this letter:

In the 1860s Baird had became concerned about the decline of Atlantic fish populations. In a 1870 report to the House Committee on Appropriations he suggested the appointment of a Fish Commissioner to direct research into the problem. President Grant appointed Baird the first director of the newly formed U.S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries in 1871.