Dear Sir—I sincerely regret that engagements of an imperative nature put it out of my power to accept the invitation of the Missouri State Medical Association for the 17th inst. I would peculiarly enjoy like being present at this banquet, because I feel that with such an opportunity, & backed by ◊ due encouragement, I could say some things which might be instructive & useful to an organization like yours. You have had a larger experience than I have enjoyed, in the matter of giving medicine, & therefore I would not try to tell you anything of value in that line; but I know more about taking it than all of you put together, I judge. I could giveⒶemendation you some points there. And I could taper off with a very handsome compliment to you, too; for it was your nobleⒶemendation & beneficent profession that first taught me the divine truth that it is more blessed to give than receive.

Consequently, my regret is not cold & formalⒶemendation, but fervid & sincere. With many thanks to yourself & the Medical Association for the compliment of your invitation, I

I am, dear sir,

Dear Sir