I address you in behalf of the Commissioners appointed under the Act of Congress, establishing the Yo Semite and Mariposa Grove as a ground for recreation. The action of Congress with regard to the Yo Semite was doubtless taken in view of the peculiar value of its natural scenery; the purpose of its action was to give the public for all future time the greatest practicable advantage of that scenery, and the duty of the Commission is to secure the accomplishment of that purpose. What affects natural scenery favorably or unfavorably to the enjoyment of mankind is the principal study of your lives, and as you are at present making a special study of the scenery of the Yo Semite you may find it convenient to give some thought incidentally to two general questions your advice upon which would be of great service to the Commission:

1st Are there any conditions affecting the scenery of the Yo Semite unfavorably which it would be in the power of the State to remove, or the further and increased effect of which might be prevented?

2nd What can be done by the State to enhance the enjoyment now afforded by the scenery of the Yo Semite?

The Commission being required by Act of Congress to perform its own duties gratuitously and no provision having been made for meeting any expenses in the premises, I cannot promise the pecuniary remuneration for your advice which it would be your right to demand but it is hoped that the importance of the Commission’s duty as a field of study for Artists and the great interests of the public in having the action to be taken by the State well advised present sufficient grounds of apology for requesting your professional assistance as a favor.

[434]

Virgil Williams and Thomas Hill in Yosemite Valley, Summer