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[MARY CASSATT PAPERS]
To keep copy of letter to Miss Cassatt
Chicago-June 19-1912

Esteemed artist.-

The writer of this letter wishes to introduce himself. I am the first Italian
in America to write poetry in Eng. Mr. French director of Chicago Art Institute gave me your address and told me to write you.

I am interested in settlement house located in the heart of Chicago slum [[?]] district. It was purchased and donated for permanent use by a woman of great means ... the furniture etc. were given by various individuals  It is open gates to the poor of all races and creeds.  The teachers offer their services voluntary - we need picture to cover our bare walls, they are necessary to elevate those that come.  I want you to contribute an oil - who knows but that it may inspire some future child artist?  It will shed peace over the lives of less fortunate brothers.  Those that come are poor but they are also very intelligent.  Our spirit is broad and tolerant.

I am the literary editor of the Monitor and some day I may publish a critique of your work - If you have nothing on hand you would care to forward please notify me you will send one later.  Choose your own subject (a mother and child perhaps?)  and may God bless you!  Thanking you and trusting to an early reply, believe me, most sincerely [[yours ?]] - Scharmel Iris -