belongs to another chapter? The Republican party in this city and State is dividing into two hostile camps. If things continue to go on as they do now, it will be doomed to certain defeat. The boss rule of Mr. Platt is the dividing element. That boss rule will cease as soon as it appears that Mr. Platt does no longer control any of the Federal patronage. As soon as it ceases, the party can unite again upon a new basis for a strong and hopeful fight. So long as Mr. Platt keeps the influence which the Federal patronage gives him, disturbance will continue and surely bring on disaster. I say this as one who is interested in the Republican party, seeing in it a bulwark against Bryanism.
Pardon this long letter. I need not assure you that the suggestions I make are those of a sincere friend who wishes for you all that is good.—Faithfully yours.
TO MRS. R. W. GILDER
I am very sorry I cannot attend your meeting in behalf of the establishment of a permanent orchestra in this city. But let me assure you that your efforts in that direction have my earnest sympathy.
The city of New York is becoming more and more the recognized center of civilization in America—not only as to the habits, tastes, endeavors and demands of its own society, but in the sense that people from all parts of the continent congregate here to find of the enjoyments of civilized life the best to be had on this side of the Atlantic.
That such a city should not have a permanent orchestra, which by constant practice and study together can train itself for the most perfect interpretation of the creations of musical genius, must certainly be regarded as an
