SD1803. Robert S. Chilton to William Page

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 21, 372 (in part).

Department of State.

Washington, february 10. 1855.

My dear Page:

If I did not know that your disinclination to use the pen is as great as your fondness to use the pencil, I would have good reason to conclude that my ugly portrait is not among those which “hang on your memory’s wall”. But I do not believe you have forgotten me because you do not write to me. I have written you several letters, and I was assured, by a most gratifying note from Mrs Browning, of your having received at least one of them. And here permit me to thank you heartily for the priceless additions to my autographic collection which your kind mention of my wishes to Mr & Mrs Browning secured for me. … Not long ago I had the pleasure of a personal interview with Bartholomew, the Sculptor. He talked a great deal about you and your works, and the enthusiasm with which he spoke of your portraits of Mr. Browning & Charlotte Cushman almost tempted me to apply for some foreign appointment, only that I might have the pleasure of seeing you and the great things you have been doing since you left this country. …

Publication: None traced.

Source: Microfilm at Smithsonian Institution.

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