"I thank you for your suggestions in regard to the acquisition of works of art. They seem to me judicious. As to the bust of Cicero of which you sent a photograph, the important question is the authenticity of the bust.
"If you can find satisfactory evidence on that point and think the purchase judicious, you may make it for me.
"The fact is I have really had very little to do with the political movements which you mention—perhaps nothing at all. I do not think I have done more than to express an opinion.
"There are many more things about which I would like to say, but I must reserve them until some future occasion.
"Present my regards to Mrs. Bigelow and the girls, and accept them for yourself.
"Very truly yours,
"S. J. Tilden."
G. W. SMITH TO W. A. WILKINS
"New York, Feb. 21, 1881.