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Theodore Roosevelt expresses how glad he was to see John Lowell in Mesa, Arizona, during his trip West, and he thanks him for the cactus wrens. Roosevelt did not enjoy every part of his trip, but it was a success. He sends his “warm regards” to Dr. Evans and his wife.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-04-25
Theodore Roosevelt relates to Frank M. Chapman that while visiting Archibald Roosevelt at his school in Mesa, Arizona, he noticed a number of birds which he failed at the time to recognize as cactus wren, due to the solid black coloration of their throats and their vigorous, familiar behavior. Roosevelt is forwarding several specimens to Chapman to ascertain whether his identification of the birds was correct. Roosevelt will soon begin writing an article on concealing coloration, as he is surprised that scientists have accepted Abbott Handerson Thayer’s theories on the subject so readily.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-04-24
W. Dew Miller informs Theodore Roosevelt that he received the letter addressed to Frank M. Chapman along with the cactus wren specimens. Chapman is currently collecting bird specimens in South America and will not return until July.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-04-27