H(enry) L. Lawton ALS, 8vo, Washington D.C. Dec. 10^th1898. Mr. Chester S. Lord, Secretary The Lotus Club. My Dear Sir, Your very kind invitation to a dinner on Nov. 26^th to meet Rear Admiral W. S. Schley has just been received, having been forwarded from place to place. I appreciate the honor you have done me, with desiring my presence and can only regret having received it too late to accept or acknowledge it earlier- which would have given me great pleasure. Very respectfully Yours, H. W. Lawton Maj. Genl U.S.V.