Most respected Professor,

In reply to your kind letter of December 28th, I have to report that your flattering suggestion of carrying out a series of observations here in Russia will be difficult to put into effect.

A simpler solution to the problem would be that we should send one or two of our surveyors to you, during the period of the autumn expedition, so that they may master the methods in the study of gravitational force, and practice under your guidance. In this way we could make use of your kind offer. The realisation of this project will depend on our ability to appoint suitable staff for such an expedition.

Our surveyors are now studying your methods from a theoretical point of view, and with this in mind all your scientific works dealing with this field are being translated. Of course it goes without saying that your name will be referred to everywhere. Our journals where your papers will appear will not be available for sale, but will be widely circulated among our scientific societies, so that it will become possible for Russian scientists to fully understand your work.

I hope, most honoured Professor, that we shall not give you cause for dissatisfaction in our great efforts to speed up the translation of your papers in order that your methods be widely propagated and your name well known. As you have informed me of the cost of the instruments and all expenses connected with such an expedition I shall be able to provide financial support wherever necessary.

With the greatest respect and admiration, I remain your devoted

N.Artamonoff