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In my cosy isolation out here, one of my chiefest comforts is looking out upon the success of young men like you. You will contribute largely to my well being if you find time to let me know every leap you take up the golden slope.

Some day I want to suggest a subject for your plastic magic. On the other side of your Plan in my study stands my group of archery tackle, some bows, quivers and arrows that I have hunted with in man [[page ends]]

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wild places from South Florida to Canada. The thought haunts me that if I were a sculptor like you I could make The Archer—The ancient, elementary fellow. And what a lithe, alert, slender athlete he was! He was one of the wild things. I have lived his life at times, and I know what he was. His bow cord rang the first musical note —he ante-dated Apollo and suggested the lyre to that god. What a fine, joyous, wildwood fellow he was in the primeval forests and glades—the typical earliest Arcadian !

Anyway you will feel my enthusiasm and know full well that I am, with every good wish

Yours faithfully

Maurice Thompson
10 November 1898–