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[[stamped]] ARCHIVES OF AMERICAN ART [[/stamped]]

meditation; or perhaps, the smile with which he brightened his familiar circle.... It is our own duty to convey to distant times the pleasures we ourselves enjoy; xxx and thus hand down, along with works that are never to die, the Image of him who composed them."

If such be the earnest desire of Britons to behold the impersonation of Shakespeare, because of his graphic exhibitions of human character, and the influence of his writings, in fixing & perpetuating their language, how much more ardently should Americans desire to possess the likeness of Washington, whose discriminating knowledge, and actual control of Character, and indomitable energy were devoted to fix & perpetuate something greater than language--The Independence and Union of a mighty nation!

The investigations to ascertain some veritable likeness of Shakespeare have been perseveringly made when no one living could pronounce on its authenticity, with our Washington the case is fortunately otherwise, Whilst He was living, the Likeness of no mortal being excited a more wide-spread & lively interest; and it was taken by many, & the most distinguished artists--leaving no doubt for whom they were intended--all representing the same acknowledged