Edwin Booth to unknown

Feby 4th

My dear Sir-

I received your note and in reply regret to say I am unable to grant yr wishes. I have so many calls upon me that it is quite difficult for me at present to see my way clearly. I have already more pictures than I have room to place them - nor can I afford to indulge in such luxuries farther than I have already done.

Had I only [failing to find?] me - provided I had the means, you should not be hindered in your pursuit of art; I admire & appreciate your sentiments but unfortunately cannot aid you in it. - [Urgent?] business

has prevented me from acknowledging the receipt of yr note (which in my [illegible] opened is respected by me) until now.

In [illegible] haste & with sincere wishes for yr future welfare,

I am yours truly

E. Booth

If the enclosed will assist you in defraying the rent of yr studio-accept it as a loan, which need not give you unnecessary [annoyance?] - relative to its return. E.B.