Transcription:
Rough draft of letter Martinez, Cal., Dec. 23, 1908. Dear Mr. Bryant: I am very sorry that a miserable lowland bronchial
cold or grippe will prevent me from being with yon at the annual meeting. Cost not in the way at all. I would gladly go farther
to see a new tree, much more to meet the able fellow mountaineers of the Alpine Club. Please assure our Board of Directors
that I sincerely appreciate the kindness, confidence, and honor bestowed upon me. Ever faithfully yours, J.M.