The other letter of interest about a member of Brumidi’s family found in
the Brumidi file at the Capitol was written from Paris, France, April 4,
1894, and is signed “Laurence S. Brumidi.” Laurence is the boy to whom
Senator Morrill referred in his Senate speech on February 24, 1880, as
the “adopted son” of Brumidi. This letter from Laurence to the Architect
of the Capitol leads us to believe that Laurence is the artist’s own
son. The letter is quoted in full as it is the only original document in
the Brumidi file throwing any light on the American born son of the
artist:
“It may seem strange after so many years’ silence I recall myself
to you. Necessity compels me to claim not only your remembrance,
but also your favorable attention. First, I will offer for
consideration my petition then my reasons for making it. I have in
my possession a portrait of my father, also a sketch of the Dome,
“The Apotheosis of Washington.” These I would gladly sell to the
Government or Corcoran Art Gallery for one thousand dollars.
“Only a pressing need could cause me to offer these precious
souvenirs of my father for sale. But the moment has arrived when
all must be sacrificed in order to assure future prosperity. Now
the last four years have been spent in Paris pursuing my studies in
the art chosen when I little knew the sacrifices required by it.
“I have exposed in the Paris Salon for several years and this year
have been promised an honor, and my picture will be reproduced in a
number of illustrated art publications.
“By this you will perceive that could I pursue the route now open
to me for another year I could grasp the fortune offered by
success. Unfortunately I find myself quite exhausted by these last
efforts and today without funds.
“If the souvenir of my father’s friendship for you will aid my
cause I invoke that souvenir knowing that a kindness to his son
would be the happiest return for his esteem and friendship.
“If instead of purchasing the pictures in question you could give
me some work to execute here and bring home with me next year, that
would be more agreeable providing I could thereby obtain some money
immediately. I can very easily execute any commission you care to
give me.
“Trusting that this application made at the last moment and after
years of hard effort will meet your approval and bring the desired
aid so urgently required.”