PSA

Year 6: John Wallace found his two young sons worrisome. One was excitedly active, mischievious, and rabidly inquisitive. The other was painfully introverted, oft times mute, and mentally detached. This was mollified by the fact they were both obedient.

As aristocratic children, they were exposed early on to high culture. They attended operas, ballets, symphonic concerts, and plays. They were taught music and dances. Both could recite poetry and plays. They could read by the age of four. By six, Lord Wallace decided they were old enough to appreciate museums. Their first attendance was a regular visit. Michael loved the experience. Morgan, however, remained between his father and his valet and made no attempt to engage at all even during demonstrations and lectures. In a gift shop, Morgan quietly asked if there were any braille books. There weren't.

The next trip, Michael, Holmes and Lord Wallace took turns explaining the exhibits to Morgan. It kept him engaged but sparked no interest. Michael wanted very much to share the wonderful experience he was having, but, in 1972, most museums were visual.

At home, Morgan was allowed to touch almost anything. The family's art collection was open to him. He could run his hands over sculptures, get close enough to distinguish different paints by scent, and different methods of painting by gingerly touching the brush strokes. He ran his hands on tapestries to feel the weave. He could even handle the weaponry and armor displays. He was also provided shelves of braille books.

Hopeful that he could improve his son's experience, Lord Wallace started contacting individual museums, hoping some would be willing to schedule private sessions that allowed his son better access to their contents. The Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art were willing to allow him to physically touch some of the sculptures. The private tours finally did prompt Morgan's interest and he spent many years after searching out hands-on tours from which to learn.

(Both museums actually do provide said private tours.)