September 30, 1929. Mr. C. F. Kelley, 907 Fifth Avenue, New York City. Dear Mr. and Mrs. Kelley: It was too bad that the fires came and prevented me seeing you this summer but, of course, you understand what a terrible turmoil we were going through over around Lake McDonald and Mr. Kelley’s letter of August 24th was not received until I got back here to “Trail’s End.” It is nice to know you have seen how the picture, The Phantom of Kootenai Lodge” looks over your lovely fire- place and it’s too bad I did not have an opportunity to discuss your idea of the valuation you would place on the picture, as Charlie started this for you personally. I realize the unfinished condition of the picture and feel that I should like to have an expression from you as to what you think it is worth. Both Mrs. Kelley and yourself seem very happy and pleased with it but if it doesn’t come up to your ex- pectations, if it does not fit into the niche that it was made for, as well as you had hoped, and you do not wish to keep it, please, Mr. Kelley, feel perfectly free in tell- ing me so and return the original to me. I know Charlie would not have you keep it if it did not fit in with your scheme of things. Kindest personal regards to the Kelley family. Sincerely, NCR:ED
[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-08-20]