This letter will introduce to you my friend, Mr. Otis Van
Orin, a member of the Corps of Civil Engineers, to be
located near your home for several months during a partial
survey of the new railroad. May I not be assured that you
will extend to him some of the hospitalities of your
delightful home, thus being to him that "friend at court" so
desirable to the stranger in a strange land? Trusting that
this will be the case, I am,
Very sincerely yours,