Chap. 146.—JOINT RESOLUTION in relation to the McCormick
telescope.

Approved March 4, 1878.

Whereas, Leander J. McCormick, Esquire, of Chicago,
Illinois, a native of Virginia, who has reflected honor upon
his country and himself by his inventive genius and the im-
pulse it has given to the productive agricultural industry of
America, hus tendered to the state of Virginia for her uni-
versity an astronomical telescope, larger than any hitherto
constructed, and costing nearly fitty thousand dollars, on cer-
tain conditions set forth in a communication from the rector
and board of visitors of the University to the general assem-
bly; be it
Resolved, 1. That the general assembly recognizes the
great importance and value of sueh a telescope as an addition
to the resources of public education in this commonwealth,
and earnestly desires that the generous offer of Mr. McCor-
mick may be rendered available.

2. That, in view of the embarrassed condition of the
finances of the state, it is impossible at present to make the
appropriation necessary to carry out the conditions with
which the offer is accompanied.

3. That the thanks of the state are due, and are hereby
tendered to Mr. McCormick, for his munificent offer and bis
loving desire to promote the interests of education in his
native state. ,

4, That in case Mr. McCormick shall be willing to present
the telescope in its present condition to the University of
Virginia, which can provide for its careful preservation and
protection, the general assembly will gratefully accept it on
behalf of the state, and will, at the earliest date at which
the condition of the state finances will permit, make due
provision for housing and using the instrument.