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May 5/51
San Francisco

Dear Betty:

I had concluded that New York had decided that I am a myth and that was the end of it. A letter is posted to Monica to mark postscript,-and I receive today from you the letter from Mr Hope from Indianna [[Indiana]]. Very encouraging. The best in some time, because this sort of controversy delights me beyond belief. Praise or blame pass as easily as the wind, usually leaving sand in the teeth, but the questions, the irritations, the feeling so well expressed in "why is it good?" or the escapism in "expressing the chaos and confusion of our time", or the downright fear and hatred in "it isn't art, its not good painting" are all to the good. These people are telling us what they are made of, not what we are doing. And their dullness is the measure of my amusement or contempt. Of course if they stand in the way to understanding, or vision, by those who would see I am thinking of art critics, teachers, etc. then I can and do lash out, because my inner responsibilities are outraged.

Tell me when you have time whether you are going to be in New York this summer, during any time I will be there. I feel that great good fortune has come to me in the job a Hunters. Such places are to me a sounding board to clear the air with the noises I sometimes like to make. 

I am responding immediately to your request to write to Mr. Hope and only trust that I will say no harmful things. Best of luck to your work. And regard to all those who are still on speaking terms with me.

With love, 
Clyff
Clyff

Answered