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Mr. J. W. Pless,
Marion, N.C.

My dear Will:

As you know, I am and have been very much interested in the establishment of the State Park on Mitchell. I am sending you a pamphlet which I have prepared. You will see that the object of this pamphlet is first, to emphasize the fact that we have the highest mountain in eastern North America; and second, to erect a monument to Dr. Mitchell, its discoverer, on the summit. The establishment of the State Park makes this an opportune time to excite interest in this subject. With the proper publicity Mitchell's Peak will be one of the chief magnates of our western country. It will attract thousands of visitors, and immensely increase our tourist travel.

The C. C. & O. Railway will be one of the chief beneficiaries.

The monument on the summit should be so constructed that people can go on top of it and command to better advantage the magnificent view. It would add to the attractiveness of the mountain.

Mr. Potter, President of C. C. & O. is a man of broad mind and fine conception for the future of his company, and the territory that his railroad serves. The thought had occurred to me that this company would be willing to contribute substantially toward the erection of this monument, and regard such contribution as a good investment. If you will undertake the task of ascertaining the views that your company has about this I will be very much obliged to you.

The monument will be erected on the forty foot square, and will not affect the controversy between the state and your client as to the five acres.

I hope that you and Mrs. Pless and the boys have had a fine Christmas, and I hope that the New Year may bring you all the full measure of success and happiness.

Your friend,

[unsigned]