http://e-archives.lib.purdue.edu/botpdf/BOTM18830731.pdfJuly 31, 1883. Tuesday. [At La Fayette] Pursuant to a call of the President the Trustees convened in session this day at the office of Secretary Stein at La Fayette. Present, President Ratliff and Trustees Hargrove, Ragan, Peddle and Williams. Also present Presidents White and Smart. The minutes of the last June session were then read and approved. President White made a statement touching the affairs and condition of the Boarding House, making suggestions in reference to the same. On motion of Col. Williams it was ordered that Prest. [President] White be authorised [authorized] to settle with Mrs. Stockton all accounts against the University on the basis of his said statement and suggestion. Prest. White reports as to the gas-supply formerly had by him from the University and offers to transfer to Purdue University the gas-main leading to the house then occupied by him and the gas-meter in said house in full satisfaction of the gas-bill owing by him to the University. On motion of Mr. Peddle the proposition of Prest. White is accepted. The Secretary now laid before the Board, a communication received by him from President James H. Smart accepting his appointment to the Presidency of Purdue University. The same was received and ordered to be spread upon the Minute Book and placed on file. Said communication reads as follows: “Indianapolis, Ind. June 13th, 1883. Hon. John A. SteinSecretary Bd. [Board] Trustees Purdue University. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter in which you inform me of my election to the Presidency of Purdue University and in which you request me to inform Hon. Joseph Ratliff of my acceptance.