Manuscript/Mixed Material
Letter from Z. F. Westervelt to Alexander Graham Bell, March 30, 1891

Rochester, N. Y., March 30th, 1891. My Dear Dr. Bell:—

On my return home after seeing you in Philadelphia, though I had considerable institute business to attend to, I felt that I must hurry to do what I could to prevent the Hartford people rushing into print, as I feared they would do if Dr. Gallaudet had gone to Hartford as he told Mr. Crouter he had planned doing, unless they had opportunity for knowing another side of the matter which Dr. Gallaudet would present to them.

I arrived at home on Sunday, the 15th, and on Monday we had a holiday and fete day, for it was the birthday of the founder of the school; a day celebrated with great enthusiasm by the children, and a time when the principal is expected to be most agreeable to the little ones. We had a delightful time, so that I quite forgot Dr. Gallaudet, but the next day and day after were devoted to getting of a letter to Dr. Fay of Hartford. I inclose the letter that I wrote Dr. Gallaudet. I also copied a letter I received from Dr. G. O. Fay, which I thought he would have no objection to my sending you. I waited for his consent, however, before sending you any of this matter. I received Dr. Fay's answer this (Monday) morning. He says his letter to me was personal and for my information only, and if it has helped me in forming my judgment, it has answered its end. I am sorry not to have you see it for it would give you as sincere satisfaction as it did me.

You will see in the letter to Dr. G. O. Fay I have taken the liberty as Mr. Blattner— I suppose it was he— has done in the Texas Mute Ranger, of stating what you believe . I sent you a marked copy of the “Mute Ranger” on Friday.

I thank you in my own name and the name of my teachers for the Volta Bureau pamphlet on marriage— All are glad to possess copies.

Very sincerely yours, Z. F. Westervelt