January 2, 1963

Dr. Ralph Moberly
Geology Dept., U of H
Honolulu

Dear Ralph,

The results of my examination did not convince my committee that I could do research, but they decided to let me go ahead and they will judge later on the basis of what I'll present.
I am, therefore, coming to Hawaii in about a week's time and hope to outline to you what I intend to do. However, I'll need some time in the field before I feel qualified to produce a proposal that will satisfy my committee, you and myself.
If you agree, which we can discuss later, I'd like to do it on the following type of basis:
1 - SIO pays my salary
2 - I work part-time for the project, combining this as much as possible with my own work, in terms of travel, equipment, etc.
3 - In exchange, I would like the use of the University's equipment, facilities, etc. if and when available, and of the fund I'll need for my own research. I'll try to work on a shoe-string budget, and expect to remain below the amount you had originally budgeted for my salary.
4 - The results of my work can be used in the report of the Project.

Wishing you a prosperous 1963 and looking forward to seeing you soon,
yours truly,

(signed) Ben
B.L. Oostdam

approved:
(signed) FPS
F.P. Shepard