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within the limits of its resources to buy as many works of art from its exhibitions and outside its exhibitions as it could. No living American artist was excluded from participation in its activities because of his aesthetic direction and all schools shared its advantages without discrimination. This democratic policy, wherein merit alone was the consideration, had an inspiring effect on the young artists of America and an invigorating effect on American art as a whole. By this process Mrs. Whitney and Mrs. Force did more than found a museum. They helped to build faith in living American art. Mrs. Whitney's love of art and the wisdom shown in the form taken by her patronage has had incalculable results upon the present and future of our aesthetic culture. The country had made great strides forward since the days which marked the beginning of the work of Mrs. Whitney and Mrs. Force. We artists understand the great debt which the county owes to the Whitney for this advance.

As a group of artists we take this occasion to express our deep appreciation of the Whitney Museum. We have been priviledged to feel that it is so much a part of our lives that its future is of vital importance to us. Should the trustees and the director consider that our cooperation might be of service in furthering the interests of the museum we should welcome such an opportunity. We sincerely hope that whatever changes are deemed necessary to guarantee the continuance of the museum, they may never interfere with its unique functions and the ideals established and carried on by Mrs. Whitney and Mrs. Force.

Very truly yours,