Of Foster's family, his father, his brothers, his sisters were all notable as patriots, as pioneers in engineering, in commerce and in society.

One of his brothers designed and built the early Pennsylvania Railroad system and died executive vice-president of that great corporation.

Thus he was born to the arts and to social distinction.

But, like many men of the creative temperament, he was born a solitary, destined to live in a land of dreams.

The singular beauty and grace of his person and countenance, the charm of his voice, manner and conversation, were for the most part familiar to the limited circle of his immediate family and friends.