TILDEN TO PARKE GODWIN
"Greystone, January 11, 1883.
"Dear Mr. Godwin,—I intended to answer your first letter in respect to the foundation of the Statue of Liberty, although it expressly waived a reply. My thought then was to have a conference which should explain to me the scheme proposed; but, in the progress of time, that result came about of itself....
"My impression has been, and still remains, that other objects ought to have a preference; and those will suffice to consume all I shall at present devote to such purposes.
"With my best wishes for the health, prosperity, and happiness of yourself and family, I remain,
"Very truly yours."