Letter from F. Hall to Robert Little, Secretary of the Columbian Institute, May 27, 1827

To Robert Little Esq. Sec. pro. tem, of the Columbian Institute. Sir, I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated Washington, May 5, 1827, informing me, that I have been elected a "corresponding member of the Columbian Institute for the promotion of arts and sciences." I have no solicitude, Sir, to acquire the distinction of having my name enrolled with the members of a society, whose interests it is not in my power, at least in some small degree, to promote. My time is all occupied, in discharging the duties of my arduous employment. I have no leisure for the preparation of elaborate dissertations on any of the topicks, embraced by your association. [[underlined]] I [[/underlined]] know of no service, that I can render, which will be of any use to the Institute; but my brother, A. a. Hall Esq. who is a resident member, assures me, that he will, erelong, inform me, in what manner I can be serviceable to your Body. Relying on him for the fulfilment of his promise, I beg you, Sir, to present my respectful acknowledements to the members of the Institute, for the honour they have conferred on me, and to inform them of my acceptance. I have the honour to be, Sir, with great respect your obedient servant, F. Hall. Washington College, Hartford. May 24, 1827

[[circular red postal stamp]] [[in brown ink]] 1834 [[/brown ink]] Robert Little Esq. Secretary of the Columbian Institute. City of Washington. D.C. [[rotated 90 degrees]] Present [[strikethrough]] July [[/strikethrough]] June 4, 1827 [[line]] [[/rotated]]