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Father asks the reason why I came to settle on this side of the river.  Because all my friends were here, because it was near the collection of modern paintings, because where I am it is clean and respectable. I settled here not knowing a more convenient and economical place to live in — and knowing that until I settled down to be near my friends was to save time.  They guided me about, at first, and made this strange city feel like home. Vedder, Hall, [[Bemment?]], Porter, [[Macmonies?]], Waldon, Brown and many other nice chaps live in the neighborhood. They are gentlemen. I do want to settle in some French family and learn the language; later shall do so.

The finest studios in the city are only a few blocks from here. Each has a garden. They are artistic.

You must remember that there is a large set here that do not dress shabbily, and live. Their works give my great happiness. What weak men our Boston painters are. You realize that after living here. I am ashamed of them and regret that I ever studied so long under them. They are insipid.

Wednesday I met Collin in front of his own picture grumbling, swearing and scolding. His work had become spotted in parts. He is said to be a great painter and a great teacher. I think he may be the latter but know he is not the former. Have met him every day this last week on the street. He lives near here. MacFerson has just arrived from Boston. Has settled on this street. Miss Flanagan has also arrived from London she lives next door in the Club for American girls. It is the only nice and clean place for a girl to live, in this city. Have just rec'd [[received]] a letter from Father dated Apr [[April]] 2,1901. The letter was an admirable one. By the way Rodin the great sculptor ate in our restaurant this evening. He is short and thick