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[tly?], instead of depending on an influencial person. In the first place, I desire to keep the project strictly private; secondarily, I believe influence in a good cause is only needed when the party addressed is lacking of sound judgement for his own convictions, but in addressing myself to a bright intellect, [endorsed?] of a great and noble heart, I found useless an intermediary influence.
I trust, also, you will pardon me for [interferring?], necessarily, with your precious time, in order to give you an idea of my professional capacity and moral standing, for the proper [engagement?]. I shall, however, be brief as possible.
The honor done to me by the profession in Italy and Switzerland is amply attested by public documents yet in my hands. I was a victim of the patriotic [revolution?] 1848 for the overthrow of Austrian oppression from the beautiful land of my fathers. I reached New York in 1853. Unable to speak the English language I practiced the profession among my countrymen. I organized a band of 45 musicuans, all belonging to the artistic and to the mechanical classes. As the band was gaining