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John J. Cushing describes the unusual behavior of a squirrel he recently observed, which leads him to question the animals’ ability to reason.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-05-17
Theodore Roosevelt sends John Burroughs the letter that he sent to William J. Long’s publisher. Roosevelt’s book is less thrilling, but more accurate than Long’s work. Roosevelt would like Burroughs to come to Oyster Bay or Washington, D.C., for a visit. He would like to discuss the question of the intellect and moral sense of animals.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1905-09-27
On account of John Burroughs’ articles, Theodore Roosevelt has removed everything he said about animals teaching their young to avoid traps and poisons.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1905-06-12
President Roosevelt has finished reading John Burroughs’s Atlantic Monthly article. He recommends a “slight toning-down” of the statements regarding a mother-bird’s coloration. William J. Long, a “nature faker,” made an attack on John Burroughs in Harper’s Monthly. Roosevelt does not understand how reputable publications encourage Long. Roosevelt comments extensively on animal intelligence and on how animals may or may not teach their young.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1905-05-29
John Burroughs thanks President Roosevelt for his suggestions and writes about his Cosmopolitan article on animal intelligence. He also discusses his dislike of William J. Long’s depictions of animals.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1905-06-09