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and thus far she has kept clear of the italians [[Italians]], who were enraged at losing one of their most lucrative models. (Note: the Padrone system was in force in those days.) But they had tracked her well tonight and doubtless threats were exchanged in the excited conversation I heard out of the door. The innocent honesty of the girl and brutal treatment she had received, interested me in her behalf--- and I hope she will yet get clear of her miserable husband to live a virtuous life for the education of her children.

The Concours have at last finished and I saw myself received yesterday, ten higher than last spring. The weather has been very hot. [[strikethrough]] Nannie and the Tuttles have been here, so I have scarcely accomplished anything since my return. [[/strikethrough]]
Financially the news from home is anything but encouraging and I feel the necessity of great economy. I have however taken an atelier for the winter which Sargent shares with me, the price 1,000 frs.. Nearly everybody from the Quarter have left Paris; a few fellows however are in dry dock from lack of funds. Perhaps one of these days I may be similarly landed, who knows, I should not be very much frightened, yet I am not anxious for the experience.

Hotel &c  Saxe, Sept. 11, 1875.

During the past week I have drawn from the Antique in the Beaux Arts, at the same time I have finished the portrait of Fred Tuttle, which I think is the best thing I have done. This head has really encouraged me and it convinces me that I can do much better. I want to do tall work this winter; be as serious as the deacon of the Methodist church and work like a giant. With very regular life and moderate living I do not believe I shall grow much leaner than I am at present --- but that in fact seems to be impossible.

Saxe, Sept. 23rd, 1875.

Twenty-three years old [[strikethrough]] today [[/strikethrough]] tonight. The fact takes my breath away and I know so little and am so unfit to bear that age, I do feel that the past two years have been worth any five proceeding ones for fitting me for the duties of life. At the Beaux Arts at 8 this a.m. I drew from the Antiques until noon, as it was raining dismally and I could not go to the Jardin des Plantes. The afternoon went to the Louvre and copied a little water-color by Bonnington. I became interested and worked for 4