“I had waited for Mr. Low to publish my reply to a letter from himself concerning the withdrawal of my pictures from the Society of American Artists.

“This gentle opinion of my own upon the situation is, I understand, expert.  I therefore inclose it to you for publication.  I have the honor to be, dear sir, your obedient servant.”

The remarks to Mr. Low read: 

“I have just learned with distress that my canvases have been a trouble and a cause of thought to the gentlemen of the Hanging Committee!

“Pray present to them my compliments and my deep regrets.

“I fear also that this is not the first time of simple and good-natured intrusion—­looking in, as who would say, with beaming fellowship and crass camaraderie upon the highly finished table and well-seated guests—­to be kindly and swiftly shuffled into some further respectable place—­that all be well and hospitality endure.

“Promise, then, for me, that I have learned and that ’this shall not occur again.’  And, above all, do not allow a matter of colossal importance to ever interfere with the afternoon habit of peace and good will, and the leaf of the mint so pleasantly associated with this society.

“I could not be other than much affected by your warm and immediate demonstration, but I should never forgive myself were the consequence of lasting vexation to your distinguished confrères.”

THE END