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March 20th, 1941

Dear Mr. Francis:

I am sending you these lines just to keep you posted, as I know that you like to hear of important pictures which come on the market.

1) In the Goya Exhibition at The Art Institute of Chicago, is exhibited an extremely fine painting, "Portrait of an Architect" under No. 137 in the catalogue (reproduced on the left hand page). This picture is not officially for sale, but, confidentially, I can tell you that the owner could be spoken to about parting with it. As you will see the name of the owner in the catalogue, you will immediately understand the situation.

2) We have just received in the last days, a very good portrait by Tintoretto, and I could eventually send you a photograph of it, but if you come to New York, it is a picture you should see.

3) I also know of a most important portrait by David which could eventually be purchased. It is in a very well known American collection, but the owner would only consider parting with it at a rather high figure. Nevertheless, I point out this David because it is a typical Museum picture, and if you are interested, I can give you more details.

I have just returned from Washington, and missed not seeing you there, but most frankly, I can say that you would enjoy your visit to The National Gallery much more when you can go in a quieter atmosphere. The crowd was such that not only could you not see the pictures, but you couldn't even see the people there; so much so, that although I made strenuous efforts, I could not reach Mr. Milliken anywhere. Please give him my best regards and tell him I was very sorry not to see him in Washington, and that I am quite anxious for him to see the enamels which I had brought to Cleveland.


t.s.v.p.