Brown, Marie A.–ZT 10.2.1880

Marie A. Brown till Zacharias Topelius 10.2.1880

Direct, Care of Mrs Eliza McChesney
Englewood
Cook Co.
Illinois

Newport, Feb. 10:th 1880

Prof. Topelius.

1 Yours of Nov. 24:th was gladly received. I am glad you liked my translation of “Nadeschda”, and that it pleased “the sons of Runeberg” was an answer to a heartfelt wish of mine. I am only writing to get Walter Runeberg’s address in Paris, to write to him and crave his aid and influence for my enterprize. I have asked Prof. Anderson for it, but lest he should not know it, I ask you also. Since receiving yours, I have decided that Chicago is the best place for my enterprize, for in the North-west there is a large Scandinavian element, whereas in Boston and New York there are almost none of that nationality. Scandinavian support is needed in the first place for the enterprize, for until interest is manifested by the Scandinavians in a substantial way, it will be well-nigh impossible to get Americans|| to subscribe any money toward it. They say Scandinavians are the ones benefitted by it. The success of the plan depends upon just this one thing: the prompt contribution of the means needed. This must come from the four countries, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, and from the Scandinavians and Americans here. Art-galleries, churches, all public institutions are started, not from the private income of a single individual, but from the generous contributions of the public at large. Now this is not only a public affair, but an international one, of broad scope and bearings. The idea, that of combining the literature and art, and the peculiarly aesthetic way in which I intend to carry it out, is mine, it is universally conceded to be a grand and beautiful one, I am prepared to undertake the labor of it, to devote my life to it, not only to exhibit and sell the works of art, to compel recognition here for Northern c genius, but to translate all that I can from the best authors, − but the money ought|| to come from all who appreciate this work and realize the need of it. In words the need is conceded, in words I am praised, every week of my life, for the aim I have before me, but I cannot help feeling wounded that, as yet, the Scandinavians have not enabled me to fulfil a plan that in the very nature of it ought to be clearer to them even than it is to me. If a fund were raised in each of the four countries it would not require so very much money from each, and if a goodly sum came from abroad, Americans would be very quick to subscribe. I have always felt that if King Oscar knew of this enterprize he would become a patron. But how to reach him? If I only knew some personal friend of his, or some one who stood near him. Perhaps you can suggest some way? If Sweden could be induced to take the lead, or if the government would aid it, I am pretty sure that Denmark would do the same, for through a former Amer. minister, I can reach the royal family there.

2 I intend also to have the matter|| thoroughly written up in the papers, here and abroad, and to have each paper call upon the public generally to support the cause liberally, just as with all international exhibits. Will you not use your pen in its behalf? Think of the power your word would have! A great deal of money could be raised, too, by lectures and entertainments, given in aid of the Northern Literature and Art Rooms”. Oh f, if you could start a fund in Finland, either through the “Helsingfors Dagblad”, or in any way that suggests itself to you! I shall ask Prof. Anderson if he will not give a benefit lecture for it here. I know he would, if he is not in too great affliction, he has been in so much trouble through his wife’s insanity. I give you my Chicago address, for I expect to go there soon. Englewood is three miles out. With the hope of having another letter from you soon, and perhaps with your photograph in it, for I desire it exceedingly, I am very fond of getting a Swedish letter and all my Swedish friends use their own language.

yours with true esteem and friendship


Marie A. Brown.