1878-07-10_Trustee Committee on Birds, Letter from Thomas M. Brewer to Israel Spelman, 1831.035.004B

(On left side of page in pencil - "Bird Committee Letters")

(in middle of page) - Acc # 1831.035. 005

233 Beacon St. July 10th 1877

Israel M. Spelman Esq.

Dear Sir

I regret that my arrangement, made to enable me to attend the meeting of this afternoon - will prevent me from being at that of Friday.

I enclose the letter of Mr. Holden on the matter of the Swans. It is most unsatisfactory but I am not surprised. The same parties had asked $125. for an odd swan when we tried to find a mate now offer less than a twelfth part for the purchase.

My own opinion is our uneasiness as to any real danger to be apprehended from any of these birds is imaginary.

I am unable to learn of any instance, in which any individual of this class of bird have ever inflicted injury.

The case of Mrs. Greenough was quite exceptional. Since the meeting I again seen Ex Gov. Gardner and he re-affirmed the statement that Mrs. G poked at the swan which was

lying in her path with her sun-shade.

To relieve ourselves of these ornaments to our grounds, in my judgment would be unwise and unnecessary. To assure safety the two culprits could be safely enclosed out of reach of the shore by means of a leather (?) one leg, so loose as not to bind, so tight as not to slip over the large feet, and secured to a heavy weight. This would test their disposition to (?) any one, which I feel sure will pass away with the breeding season.

Yours very truly, Thomas M. Brewer

1) Letter Thomas M. Brewer [?] Com on Birds in regard tp Sale of Swan July 10 1878

2) Letter from Holder ACC# 1:31.035.004B