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—2— This painting, we know, is an early Renoir. In fact, it might interest you to know that none of us in the firm had actually paid any attention to the date and that it was a revelation to find out how young the artist was when he painted this masterpiece. Though I realize that these last comments will have no bearing on your decision, I am just trying to convey to you my personal reactions. I want to feel that I have done everything possible to cooperate with you in the acquisition of this painting — which is why I spontaneously authorized Mr. Waegen to quote you the tremendously reduced figure of $48,000.,possibly never communicated to you — not alone for the sake of making a sale, but more for the pride and satisfaction of knowing that it had gone to your great institution. I do sincerely hope, therefore, that you will realize how deeply I desire to see your museum purchase this painting, the great reduction I am making — from $60,000., to $48,000. — and that I may hear from you that you find its acquisition possible. With personal regards to you and Mr. Francis, Yours very sincerely, (Germain Séligmann) William M. Milliken, Esq., Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio. P.S. I have just read of the new honors bestowed upon you this Summer, and may I send you my very hearty congratulations, as they are certainly a recognition of the splendid work you have achieved. G.S.