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To Mrs. Mary A. Cogswell,

Hartford, Conn.

New York, November 4th, 1816

Dear Mary,

We arrived here safe and sound on Thursday evening last, after a most delightful passage on the steamboat, without the slightest accident. On our arrival we found there had been a meeting of about a dozen gentlemen with Dr. Mitchell at their head, pricked on with Consul Lee, for the purpose of taking into consideration the propriety of addressing their Legislature on the subject of erecting a rival institution here. They had already had two meetings, a Committee appointed to prepare a testimonial, constitution, etc. Our business has been to visit this Committee separately and converse with them freely on the subject. Most of them seemed surprised at the conduct of Mitchell, who had brought forward this subject without giving them all the information he possessed respecting our Institution, not having even informed them, that he had received a letter from me. Their third meeting will be held this afternoon at four o'clock, as you may have seen by the papers, and we have been requested to attend. What the result will be, time alone can determine. To-morrow we shall probably know what course will be best to pursue.

We intend going to Albany and I rather think we shall go up this week, that we may catch the rich and great men while the Legislature are in session.

Where is Mr. Dwight? Has he been in Hartford or is he coming there? I presume he will be home while the Legislature are sitting. I should never get over it if I did not find him at home. Do write me immediately and let me know about it.

General Stephens and family have treated us with every possible kindness and civility. We dined there yesterday. I have just learned that the mail does not close till evening. I shall leave my letter open until after the meeting.

I have just returned from the meeting where nothing decisive has been done. Dr. Mitchell opened the meeting with one of his long winded speeches, and, as he thought, a very scientific one, but really amounting to nothing. He was followed by several others, some good and some bad, and finally an adjournment took place for one month. So we are at loose ends, not knowing what to do. We shall have a consultation in the morning and if possible take the best course. I shall let you know our determination as soon as it is made.

Mrs. Radcliffe and Mrs. Boardman desire their love to you. My love to all who love me.

Most affectionately, I am,

Your husband,

Mason F. Cogswell