October 5, 1865. Andrew Dickson White to Ezra Cornell regarding the planning of Cornell University: "In a few weeks I hope to present you with a report wh. shall be of service. I mean to visit New York New Haven & Cambridge to have a quiet confidential talk with Mr R[?] & leading scientific men to [?] their having absolutely the best men they know with some sketch of their characteristics. But the Presidency. How about Gov. Andrew? He has declined Antioch College. Why may not we secure him if he is desirable? But above all do not let the Observatory depart far from your thoughts. Take no thought for the building. When may I telegraph the Associated Press that you have contracted for by far the largest telescope in the world for the Cornell University? I ache to do it. I cannot help thinking that it would be easier & simpler to take the Yale or small hall system or a modification of it." Topics: Yale College: Sheffield Scientific School; Nevada; Unitarianism; Cornell University: founding, establishment of Library, professors, buildings; agriculture; Cornell villa; cattle; New York State canals; Massachusetts Agricultural College; Harvard College. Personal names: Pinkham, Ruth; Bloodgood, S. DeWitt; Andrew, J.A.; White, Andrew Dickson; Cornell, D.B. Geography: Ithaca, N.Y.