[Letter] 1872 January 1, South Bethlehem, PA [to] W.J. Roepper / Henry Coppée.

The letter is written on official President's Room, Lehigh University letterhead. See also additional letters in the collection from Coppée as well as a letter from his daughters to Edith Wharton about their father's work.

Coppée places on record an "official statement" of Roepper's rank and position at Lehigh, stating the "sincere regrets" of the University that he chose not to remain when "we would have gladly retained your valuable services." Coppée reviews Roepper's service as Professor of Mineralogy and Geology and Curator of the Museum since 1866, praising his knowledge and teaching skills. Prior to assuming the duties as the first President of Lehigh from 1866 to 1875, Coppée worked on the railroad, fought in the Army during the Mexican War, and taught at West Point and the University of Pennsylvania. During his term in office, many buildings including the President's house, Packer Hall, and the University Center were constructed; Coppée also delivered lectures on history, logic, rhetoric, political economy and Shakespeare.