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it is because of this responsibility that this institution and the 
Metropolitan Museum of Art have grown to such vast results and 
usefulness. I hope the time will never come when either of these 
institutions will be looked upon for public spoil — when either 
political party may feel that these institutions are to be used in any 
way for political purposes. Thus far, the municipal authorities 
have kindly, wisely, willingly and unselfishly left the management 
of these institutions according to the contract. I think it right 
that you should understand the arrangements existing between 
the city and the Museum, and the conditions under which this 
building is accepted to-day. 
Now, I had prepared a brief address in writing to make on this 
occasion, but one of our oldest Trustees a few minutes ago said 
to me, "You are not going to read an address, are you?" He 
said, "I will give you $50 not to do it." I will not take the $50, 
but just say a few words with reference to this Museum. The 
Trustees have a laudable pride in presenting to you this building 
to-day stored as it is with so many treasures that come from 
nature, properly exhibited ; the building beautifully lighted, and 
everything arranged for the comfort, pleasure and entertainment 
of the public. We think the Trustees are justified in expressing 
their gratification at the success which has been achieved. 
Regarding the material within these walls (Mr. Dana has spoken 
of the cost of these buildings), it is right that I should tell you 
that the two buildings have cost the city about a million and one- 
half dollars. It is right, also, that you should know that the 
Trustees and their friends, with the public, have contributed in 
money and in specimens to the value of one million, seven hun- 
dred thousand dollars. Three hundred thousand of which has 
been given to the Trustees as an Endowment Fund, the interest 
of which is sacredly pledged to the purchase of new material, 
and to the enriching of the specimens and material which we 
have. It is right that I should tell you that since these buildings 
were opened the cost to maintain them has been about four hun- 
dred thousand dollars, and while I will let the city have all the 
credit that is its due, you should know that quite one-half this 
sum has been paid by the Trustees and the public. Therefore, 
you will observe that up to this time the city has paid only about 
