.MTk4.NDUwNjE

33

I shall proceed to suggest a Plan of applying the proceeds of the Smithsonian Fund, which would, I conceive, accomplish the design of that Philanthropist. Let then the Government charge itself with the erection of the contemplated wing of the Patent Office, and the purchase and maintenance of its Library, Museum, and gallery of Art; and thus relieve the Smithsonian Fund of a burden foreign to its design. unclear let the original Fund $515,000. with the interest accruing thereon, say $242,129 in all be considered as one, and draw interest at six per cent forever -- With the exception perhaps of $100,000. To be immediately expended in the construction of a suitable edifice for the uses of the Smithsonian Institution. The remaining $700,000. drawing an interest of $42.000. Let the Regents of the Smithsonian Fund consist of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States, who compose the Bench at Washington, with an equal number of the Sages of the Land, who have become illustrious for their wisdom and virtue, and who have retired from the Strife of politics. Let their unclear be first appointed by the Judges, and afterwards all vacancies by death or resignation be filled by the election of the Survivers. Such men as these Judges, with a Gallatin a Heart, et id omne genus, would be inaccessible to corrupt influences, & would profess and justify the confidence of this country.