and to bring hither the fruit of the lands,
the products of other soils, the articles manufactured by
foreign hands, and evidences of the achievements of the
intellect and intelligence in the higher fields of thought.

While in gathering these things there is no distinction made
between the product of man's hand and of woman's hand,
nevertheless, it is the peculiar function of this board to act
as the channel through which women, as individuals, and as
organizations, may be brought into immediate communication with
the exposition at St. Louis.

It is, therefore, with cordiality and eagerness that we invite
the women of your country to join with us in presenting to the
world the information of the condition, opportunities,
development, and promises of their sex in their own country and
to exhibit at the exposition specimens of their productions and
examples of their activities, manual and mental, scientific and
artistic.

And coupled with this invitation, we would express the hope that
we may be permitted to be of personal service to such women as
may visit the exposition in person, or to give special attention
to the exhibits of such as may not be able to come.

Requesting your excellency's good offices to the end that the
publicity may be given to the invitation in order that it may
come to the knowledge of the women of the country, we beg to
assure you of the high consideration with which we are,

Your obedient servant,
MARY MARGARETTA MANNING,
President.

The honorable the SECRETARY OF STATE.

SIR: I have the honor to transmit herewith invitations which the
board of lady managers of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition have
addressed to the women of foreign countries, through the
respective diplomatic envoys, with a view to promoting women's
interests at the exposition.

In view of the indorsement which the Congress of the United
States has given to the exposition, and the recognition it has
accorded to the board of lady managers, I should be pleased were
it found consistent with practice for the invitations to be
delivered by the diplomatic envoy of the United States, and if
they were instructed to give them their support.

I have the honor to be, sir,

Your obedient servant,
M. MARGARETTA MANNING.

MRS. M.M. MANNING,
_Presi