Tr. of Venus to George M. Robeson, August 27, 1874

Commodore Davis to Mr. Robeson.

Sir: I have the honor to inform the Department that this commission, acting with its knowledge and approval, has made arrangements for determining, by means of the telegraphic lines, the difference in longitude between the northern and southern stations occupied for observing the transit of Venus.

Since some of the lines are under the control of foreign governments, i respectfully request that application may be made through the honorable Secretary of State for the free use of these lines for the purpose mentioned, at such time and in such manner as will best suit the convenience of the authorities controlling them.

The lines in question are, first, the land-telegraph from Melbourne to Port Darwin, in Australia, belonging to or controlled by the colonial government of South Australia; and, secondly, the line in the island of Java, between the ports of Batavia and Banjuezangi, controlled by the government of the island.

I would also respectfully request that the authorities referred to may be informed of the desire of the American commission that their astronomers should be authorized to take part in the work, and to that end should place themselves in direct communication with the American parties with whom they can co-operate.

I respectfully suggest that the Java astronomers should communicate with the chief of the American party at Nagasaki, and the astronomers of Australia with the chief of the American party at Hobart Town, and with the board which has already been appointed by the Department to convene in Melbourne for the purpose of executing this important work.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant.