Social history

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 discusses his case of yellow fever. He maintains that there is no proof Ames ever contracted yellow fever. He writes that Lazear conducted secret experiments, and discusses Moran's draft of his memoirs.

Kean feels Moran is too contentious about the Cuban medical profession taking all the credit for the yellow fever discovery. Kean tells Hench the advice he gave Moran about how to approach his autobiography, or memoirs, without angering the Cubans.

Kean discusses the honorary degree given to Reed by Harvard University. Reed considered this one of the greatest honors in his lifetime. There is also a discussion of the proper quotation for the honorary tablet outside of the room where Reed died.

Kean discusses the career of McCoy. He answers Hench's questions from a previous letter. According to Kean, Gorgas initially rejected Reed's mosquito theory.

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 the camp location and commanders. He offers his opinion of Cubans and reports that Mabel Lazear will leave for the United States before the fever season quarantine begins.

Lazear, writing as William Lazear, describes his son's daily life.

Lazear writes that he will assist Reed in an investigation of a disinfectant. He offers his opinion on the political situation in Cuba.