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as I am in Paris for study and my means are not enough to allow me, to not only study under good masters but to dress so I can attend any afternoon gatherings with the feeling and knowledge of not causing a blush to tint the cheek of my entertainer - I have therefore deprived myself of knowing them. This is the reason I have not taken your's or your wife's kind invitation and so long has it been I am sure you know not whom the writer may be.  Well, she is a Pittsburgher and first met you at the home of Col Allen's at Brushton and there spent two or three weeks with you, when you were home on a visit; it was the time our country had all her fourth of July flags at half mast; as our President Garfield lay dying.

I have studied for two winters under J.P. Laurens and B. Constant but I am now not allowed to return to the studio for ill health - In a private view with my masters they both unhesitatingly say I have made marked improvement and would wish me to go on - could have a studio of my own and take work to them once a month without any charges.  As a child I greatly admired you as a man and Artist - Other knowledge of you in Paris though at a distance has not taken from that high esteem and if it were possible in your busy time