THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

March 18, 1992

Dear Ms. Ashvil:

On behalf of Mrs. Bush, thank you for your kind note

requesting her opinion of the painting that you sent

to her in the fall. She appreciates the goodwill

that prompted you to write.

Your portrait of Mrs. Bush was  received in good

condition and has been designated for placement in

the proposed Bush Presidential library, scheduled to

be built in Texas.   Our records indicate that a thank-

you card for the painting was sent to you from the

president and Mrs. Bush on January 27, 1992.   It

should be noted that long-standing White House policy

precludes the President and First Lady from commenting

on the merits of, or aiding in the promotion of, any

commercial venture or work of art that they receive.

I know you will understand.

I know that Mrs. Bush would want me to reaffirm her

sincere gratitude for the painting and her very best

wishes.

                                                                                            Sincerely,

                                                                                            Joan C. DeCain

                                                                                            Director of Correspondence

                                                                                            For Mrs. Bush