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32
Letter II. 

I now proceed to the investigation of the steps, which, though at first not taken with a view to the formation of a new Academy by a combination of concurring causes, at length resulted in that measure. 

In the month of November, 1825, it occurred to one of the most eminent of the body, that something might be done for the promotion of the art, and the assistance of students; the idea was suggested to a few of his professional brethren, and by them at once adopted. His plan was merely to form an association for Improvement in Drawing; that those artists and students who might feel disposed to join the association should meet a certain number of evenings in each week, during the winter, for the purpose of copying from casts, and the principal advantages which were aimed at in this proposition, were the increase of harmony among the artists by these occasional meetings, the benefit of mutual instruction and advice, and the promotion of a spirit of emulation and zeal for the art, among the members of the profession. A small sum was contributed by each to defray the necessary expenses; a Treasurer was appointed to manage their slender funds, and a Secretary to record the few regulations which it was found expedient to adopt, for the better prosecution of the objects of the association. A President and Vice-President were elected, and thus these artists and students became an organized body. In a short time it was found that with a very few exceptions, all the artists of the city, and many amateurs, had joined the association; and for some weeks, affairs went on, prosperously and smoothly, every one being zealously and willingly engaged in improving himself and his fellow members, and all rejoicing in the efficacy of the school thus established as it were by accident; for as yet, it was considered only as a school. The establishment of the Association had by this time, become generally known; some believed and reported that the Artists had founded an Academy in opposition to the American Academy; but the most widely received opinion was, that the recently formed Institution was connected with,