"15 GRAMERCY PARK, NEW YORK, _March 30, 1886_.
"DEAR MR. JORDAN,--You need have no hesitation in
suggesting to me anything in my power which you think would be
beneficial to Mr. Manning.
"The _Viking_ is laid up for the winter, and has to undergo some
refitting before she can be brought into service.
"But I do not think Mr. Manning could, by any possibility, use her
with advantage, unless his present situation should be greatly
changed.
"It is too late in the season to go South. I do not believe that Mr.
Manning could bear the motion of the largest ocean steamer, still
less the greater motion of a small steamer, or the gas and noise of
the machinery. A great deal of strength and health is required by
the roughing incident to a sea voyage of any considerable duration.
I have myself to limit my excursions in the _Viking_ to a few hours
at a time. Nor would it be easy to take on board a man weighing 280
pounds who cannot walk, and more difficult still to convey him down
the narrow gangway.
"The medical treatment, as I understand, prescribes absolute quiet;
this is incompatible with yachting. I am here for a few days, and
shall then return to Greystone. I receive frequent information in
regard to Mr. Manning, but should be glad of anything which you may
be able to communicate.
"I should be delighted if Mr. Manning should become able to use the
_Viking_ with benefit.
"Very truly yours,
S. J. TILDEN."