box00005_fld00016_bdl0001_doc0029_00000001.txt; TRANSLATION.
Berlin, November 21, 1907-
My Dear Colleague
The installation of the colossal Diplodocus in the Light-court of the Royal Museum of Natural History can only take place by removing four skeletons of whales. Since these are to be placed in a shed which remains to be built, the erection of the Diplodocus can in no case be begun before the spring of next year. The Light-court has a length of 27 meters and a height of more than 15 meters, and the space which will be made vacant by the removal of the whales is from 5 to 6 meters wide,
so that an abundant room will be provided for his Colossalship. I have with a heavy heart as Director of the Zoological Museum resolved to remove the splendid whales. But what was to be done? When such a grandiose beast of past ages again arises from its tomb, and that in Germany where we have no such treasures, the living world must take a back seat. My sorrow about the whales is mitigated by the conviction that this splendid gift of Mr. Carnegie is a proof of the good will which exists
between our two countries, for which every German is bound to strive, and evidences of which every true German receives with joy. Be assured that the great honor which Mr. Carnegie desires to show to our Emperor is by all of us heartily recognised. I congratulate myself that the duty has been laid upon me of placing myself at your disposal, and I promise you as far as possible to lighten your labors and to carry out your wishes to the best of my ability.
In the hope that I may be able next spring to be at your service, I am, with fraternal greetings, Yours most respectfully,
A. Brauer, Director.
Carnegie Mellon University - Andrew Carnegie Online Archives
