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[begin page 2 of 2] bought for him. Two of the best of the pictures I got for him were painted by Bruce Crane, the writer of the enclosed letter. When therefore I returned this morning and found Crane's letter it seemed to me as though I ought to send it directly to you.

Pray, don't regard the letter in the light of charity. If you wish a good picture here is the opportunity. I have not seen it but from the way he speaks of it I am sure it is a good work, and if it is not satisfactory to you I will engage that he will paint another that will please you. He is a thoroughly reliable man but seems to have had a run of very hard luck. Yours very truly John C. Van Dyke [end page 2 of 2]