except for the signatures, the entire letter is in an unidentified hand

Assured that some account from you of your recent visit to Madagascar,—of the Island, its Queen, its people, and its natural productions, and especially, of your own remarkable journey across the Island,—would be as highly interesting to many others in this city as, certainly, it would be to ourselves, we cordially invite you to favor us with a lecture, in this city, whenever, and as soon as, may be convenient to yourself.

With the expression of our high appreciation of the service you have rendered to geographical science,—and not unmindful of practical results to which your successful mission may lead, to the mutual advantage of the United States and of Madagascar, we are,