October 11, 1954

My, Richard Herpers
. Seoretary of Columbia Univeralty
New York 27, N.Y.

Dear Mr, Herpers:
Thank you for your letter of the Sth, inviting me to represeht Colusbia
University at the inaugural ceremonies at Beloit College. I would have been

honored to accept, but unfortunately will be tied up on government business
at Washington on the 29th. I mst therefore regretfully decline.

Yours sincerely,

Joshua Lederberg
Professor of Genetics