Social history

Kean declines to write a chapter for Hench's book. He comments on the book's preparation.

Kean discusses Lazear's discovery of intrinsic and extrinsic incubation in mosquitoes.

Kean relates the history of the Kissinger family in their desire to obtain money and how Peabody organized the Kissinger Relief Fund. Kean goes on to say that there was an error in a pamphlet published by Peabody in the amount of pension money to be given to the Kissinger family.

Kean sends Hench letters (not included) from Finlay and gives Hench a very positive description of Guiteras.

Kean comments on an interview with Reed's children. He explains the reasons Reed obtained two medical degrees after his graduation from the University of Virginia.

Moran wants Kean to explain to Nogueira that there shouldn't be any hostility between Cuba and the U.S. caused by distinguishing between Finlay “discovering” the mosquito theory and Reed “demonstrating” the theory. Kean also mentions his letter to Moran about Guiteras' speech given in Havana in 1900, which gives a proper analogy for the Finlay--Reed discovery.

Kean shares family news. He is glad to receive copies of Walter Reed's diplomas and describes Truby's visit. He is relieved to hear that Building No. 1, at Camp Lazear, will be preserved.

Kean provides reasons for infection of yellow fever at Columbia Barracks and possible ways to prevent spread of disease. [Courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration]

Kean cites a lack of support for sanitary measures by the Cuban authorities, and an increase in the incidence of yellow fever. He requests assignment of another medical officer to his staff.

Kean offers Reed continued encouragement and strategy for the Surgeon General's post.

Kean discusses La Garde's and Havard's candidacy for Surgeon General. There is a question of General Wood's support.

Kean provides news concerning the Surgeon General position. He has had a conversation with General Wood. Reed should return to Cuba.

Kean denies a rumor that he has been chosen to succeed General Torney. He informs Gorgas that the 10th Infantry has been ordered to Panama.

Carroll thanks Kelly for his letter of sympathy. She will loan him a photograph of her late husband.

Wilson relays Kissinger's situation to Kelly.

Jesse T. Lazear provides family news. He reports that two noted physicians spoke to him about Jesse W. Lazear's death.

Lazear writes about killing potato bugs, attending church, studying the map of Europe, and memorization.

Lazear describes his sea voyage, including the passengers, the weather, and icebergs.

Lazear writes that he has begun dissection work in his anatomy course. He describes his living arrangements and customs regarding women.

Lazear describes Edinburgh.