Know Ye, that the bearer hereof, John James Audubon, a distinguished naturalist and native citizen of the United States, has made known to me his intention of travelling on the continent with the view principally of aiding the cause of science by extending his researches and explorations in natural history, and as he is known to me to be a man of character and honor and worthy of all friendly offices and of all personal regard, these are therefore to request all whom it may concern, to permit him to pass freely, without let or molestation, and to extend to him all such aid and protection as he may need, and which becomes the hospitality of civilized and friendly nations. In testimony whereof I, Daniel Webster, Secretary of State of the United States, have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of this department to be affixed at the City of Washington, this the 24th day of July, A. D. 1842. [Signed] DANIEL WEBSTER _President John Tyler to Whom it May Concern_ UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, WASHINGTON, _28th July 1842_. The bearer of this, John James Audubon, is a native citizen of the United States, who has informed me of his intention of travelling on the continent of America, chiefly to promote the cause of science by researches in natural history. He is known to me to be a naturalist of eminent acquirements and estimation, a man of character and honor and worthy of all personal respect and regard. I recommend him to my countrymen abroad and to the authorities and inhabitants of other countries that he may receive the friendly offices, aid and countenance which are due to the interests of science and the rites of hospitality among civilized nations. JOHN TYLER, President of the U. States. John Bachman, who had agreed to be responsible for the letterpress of the _Quadrupeds_, was already at work, as shown by the following note[190] sent to Audubon at this time: _John Bachman to Audubon_ CHARLESTON, _August_, 1842. MY DEAR FRIEND: I have just returned from a visit to the country, where I left Mrs. Bachman for the benefit of her health. I have a season ticket on the railroad, and, on my weekly visits, I do much of my writing on Natural History. The moment the clock strikes four I am up, and soon at work. From this hour until seven, I have no interruptions. I hope in this way to steal time to write about _Quadrupeds_. When I get fairly under way, as I am now, I am not easily diverted from the object before me, and nothing but ill health or domestic affliction will keep me back. J. B.