Illinois School for the Deaf

Jacksonville, Ill
30 August 1845

Mr. Thomas Officer

Sir. The President and Directors of the Illinois Asylum for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb, held a meeting this morning. They agreed upon the salary of the Principal and Superintendent; which they fixed at 800 $ per annum, with the use of a suitable room in the building for the present. The salary of the ensuing year payable 1 January 1847.

The Board also appointed you Principal and Superintendent of the institution and I advise you of the fact by this directive.

The Board do not agree as you will perceive to furnish the principal with boarding. - nor do they agree to the arrangement proposed in your letter of the 15 July in regard to the employment of a Teacher - It is expected that the Principal will be able to give instruction to all the students for at least one year and perhaps longer, and his services will be required in their housing ... , - As, from your letter there is some reason to doubt your acceptance of the appointment you will please signify your decision as early as practicable.

The Board desires to open this institution for the acceptance of students as early as possible after the 1 October, at all events by the 1 November and hence the necessity of your early decision.

Very Respectfully
Your obt. Servt.

W. Thomas
Secretary of the Board of Directors
Ill. D&D Asylum