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November 15, 1941

Mr. Marsden Hartley Corea Maine Dear Mr. Hartley: Each of your letters seems to contain good news, and your most recent one, mentioning the possibility of presenting some of your Maine paintings to the State Library, is indeed an especially delightful one. We shall regard this mention as you ask, as a "preliminary whisper." The State Librarian, however, is joyfully impressed with the idea; and we certainly do hope that such a rare privilege may be ours. If you call at the library, you will be able to see where the pictures might be hung. Of course we should want at least one in the Librarian's office, and we assure you that this office is a public place, and not a sanctuary forbidden to the world! You are more than kind to have us in mind for an exhibit copy of the new book, and we shall watch for it eagerly. Your request for the Saint Sebastian material has been referred to our Research Librarian, who will doubtless write to you about available data. Please do not doubt our enthusiasm about the paintings. We are glad that you feel as you do about Maine, and we promise you that should this wonderful event be possible the paintings will assuredly be placed where they may be seen at all times. We would be very proud to accept the gift, and to hang them in the State Library. Very truly yours MAINE STATE LIBRARY BY SECRETARY hmj

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