Painting #175 "Polish Rider" Copy this

TRANSLATION.

from French

The Hague, June 27, 1898.

Dear Count:-

It is with deep regret that we learned that the fine Cavalier by Rembrandt has been returned to you instead of waiting in Berlin until I could go and get it for our exhibition. Really, this picture must be among the 85 Rembrandts which Her Majesty, the Queen of England, the English Nobility, and all the great Collectors of Europe have promised to send to our exhibition. There will be Master pieces to be seen there, some of which are little known, but what a surprise, and what renewed admiration for the great Master when your magnificent picture, almost unknown, will reveal itself there in all its beauty.

I feel certain that later on you would regret not to be contributed to the success of this exhibition, which will be unique in the history of art. Just think, nearly 90 works of one of the greatest artist in the world will be brought together. All expenses are paid by the Commission; risk is avoided in every possible way. The Museum is a fine new building which gives every guarantee against theft and fire. This exhibition will be the apotheosis of your picture; it will henceforward have a rank among the Master-pieces of our great Master.

And as this jewel is kept in its case, well sheltered from sightseers in a corner of the world not easily acessible, you will bestow a great kindness in showing this jewel just for once to the public, and for two months only.

So, dear Count, it will be a kindness. I understand that you are afraid of confiding it to strange hands, but Hauser's case will be a good one, and as soon as it is opened in Holland only pious hands will handle the picture. I still have hope.

The delightful welcome which you were kind enough to give me in Poland is almost a guarantee that you will grant our wishes.

Make us happy, we will be grateful, and come and see with the Countess, this interesting exhibition, which will allow you to cast a glance over this curious little country which is called the Netherlands.

Believe me,

Very truly yours,

(Signed) Bredius,

Director the Royal Museum.