Dear Barry,

   I just got the exhilarating news that I won a full Cal@Silicon 
fellowship for this year.  This inspired me to write to you about 
jobs for next year.  You and Robert convinced me that I should 
graduate May 2000 and, by golly, I will.  I am rapidly writing up 
my thesis and beginning the job application process. 

   The first deadline is October 16, 1999 for the NSF Postdoctoral 
Research Fellowship.  I would be elated if I were able to work with 
you as an NSF postdoc during the time period June 2000 -- June 2002.  
Are you willing to sponsor me?  If so, let me know so that I can 
complete my application and gather the necessary letters of 
recommendation from Ken, Robert, Hendrik and Loic. 

   Apparently the deadlines for most other jobs are in December.  I 
will be applying for several jobs throughout the country, especially 
those I learned about at the Park City Math Institute.  Would you be 
willing to write a letter of recommendation for me as a job candidate?  
Are there any universities to which you recommend I apply?  Harvard 
is my first choice because you are there, but I'm aware that it is
difficult to get a job or NSF postdoc there. 

   Thanks for any help and advice!

   Best,
    William