LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

OFFICE OF COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE,
INSURANCE, STATISTICS, AND HISTORY,
AUSTIN, TEXAS, May 1, 1891
.

Hon. J. S. Hogg, Governor of Texas:

DEAR SIR—I have the honor to transmit herewith the Second Annual Report of the Geological and Mineralogical Survey of Texas. The work of that branch of this Department has been in charge of Prof. E. T. Dumble from its organization up to the present time, and whatever of success has attended the inauguration and first two years' work of the Survey is largely due to his skill as an organizer and ability as a geologist. Considering the limited means placed at the command of the Department for use in that branch of the office, the character and extent of the work accomplished will, in my judgment, compare favorably with that done by the Surveys of other States.

These Reports have resulted in acquainting our own people with the mineral resources and wealth of the State, and attracting the attention of capitalists and investors, both at home and abroad, thereto. Indeed, this is only a modest claim for the practical benefits to the people of the State resulting from the work of the Survey.

Since the Survey has demonstrated its right to live, and its effect on the material development of the State is becoming better understood, it is to be hoped that more liberal appropriations will be made for the prosecution of the work.

I have the honor to remain, with great respect, your most obedient servant,

L. L. FOSTER,
Commissioner of Agriculture, Insurance, Statistics, and History.