I have been informed that you are proceeding to cut the timber on and around Mount Mitchell. Heretofore you have shown the greatest consideration for the preservation of this mountain. You have acted generously. I hope that the report to me is not true, but if it be true, cannot you forbear cutting this timber until we can institute proceedings and have the title passed to the State. The price will be adjusted in accordance with my original understanding with you. The proceedings to pass the land to the State will be instituted at once, if they have not already been begun.

With highest regards, I am,