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decided that we cant allow you to have a reception at your house. No matter how small it might be it would be too much for the little woman. I know how you all shield her and protect her but it would be in the air and she would be sure to feel it, and too we will be so much more satisfied to be quietly with the family. At the public affair I shall insist that you stand by me as I should not feel at all at home. I am sorry that one large portrait that I have just painted - can't be sent to Pittsburg but I feel that it should be exhibited in New York - but I shall probably send on a couple from here - a portrait and a picture. The Harpers are going to give a portrait and one or two of the pictures in the Wesley[[best guess?]] with an account of the exhibition Love to all, - John
Transcription Notes:
Reviewer: edit made, cannot make out the first word on right page and the paper? name towards the end of the letter on the left
-First word appears to be continuation of "decided" from previous page.