GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE SL - Sz , Misc. 1862 - 1920 & undated [*I believe Mr Sheldon responsible and worthy. Horace [Greeley?]*] New Haven June 8 1863 Miss Dickinson; I so much desire to have your voice upraised in the cause of commonsense and the common welfare in our goodly city of Elms that I know you will pardon me if I seem a little persevering. If I thought you did not desire anymore to speak I would not write you but I know very well that any one who can speak as well and truly as you do cannot readily give it up when so much need exists that you shouldP.S. Please write the time terms & subject of your lecture if you should conclude to come. Income if any over paying yourself to be devoted to any cause you see fit to designate. Continue to speak. I have taken the liberty of enclosing this to my friend and doubtless your friend as he is th friend every earnest man or woman that he may say to you whether you can properly communicate with me. Mr Greely knows me very slightly but sufficiently to know I am not a scamp. My good wife joins in desiring to hear & see you & bid you good speed whether you come to New Haven or not. I am a lawyer by profession but somewhat on the earnest order and as I have had the pleasure to introduce to our nice fogies all the best radicals from Wendell Phillips to Elder of your city I would be glad to have them hear you. Yours for the good cause anyway. [Y] Joseph SheldonBoston, May 14, 1862. Miss Anna E. Dickinson:- Very Dear Madame:- The Fraternity of the Twenty-eighth Congregational Society " will be most happy to have you accept an invitation to lecture in the Fifth Course, on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1862, at the Tremont Temple. As you are probably aware, entire freedom of utterance is proffered to each lecturer in the Course. An early response will oblige. With high regard, truly, Chas W. Slack Boston, Sept. 24 1862. Dear Miss Dickinson:- You doubtless have seen, ere this, in the Liberator, the announcement of our lecture course. Enclosed you will find a slip of the same. I trust we have given you a convenient evening. You were kind enough to give the choice of the evening to the committee, and they arranged as you see. Certainly you are placed between two very important personages! Don't be afraid of out audience. We shall give you a cordial and sympathetic reception. Let me know, of possible, ten days' before, the subject of yr address Very truly, yr. friend, Miss A.E. Dickinson} Chas. W. Slack36 100 3600 36 60 2160 6 12960 Custom House, Boston, January 12, 1863. Dear Anna E.: -- We wish you to speak in Music Hall, next Sunday forenoon. You had better read the Scriptures, and the Hymns, also. You can do both well. (They say you have a very persuasive voice!) If you return by Friday morning, you can then give me the hymns, for the choir's rehearsal. If not, please send them to me. You had better give us something of what your heart is full -- say the future of America. (This only as a suggestion: do as you please.) Send me the subject as soon as it is known --that is, as soon as the bantling[?]is christened. By-the-way, Judge Russell doubtless will be in attendance. You will catch inspiration at sight of him! "No more at this present." Hope you are having a good time. "Regards to all inquiring friends." Ever truly, your friend, and well wisher, And for the Speedy Dawn of Universal emancipation And the Success of the Womankind Cause And of Temperance, Etc., Etc., Chas. W. Slack.Miss. Anna Dickinson Dear Miss Please accept these flowers - as a slight tribute, from a little Music Teacher who has desired to hear you for many years. Mrs. Julie Smith was here a few days since - I had the pleasure of making her acquaintance, Most Respectfully Mrs. A E SlaterMiss Anna Dickinson [Yarbors?]ESTABLISHED 1874. MANAGERS OF ONLY FIRST-CLASS CONCERT AND OPERATIC ATTRACTIONS, LECTURERS, MUSICAL & DRAMATIC ARTISTS. ENGAGEMENTS NEGOTIATED. CENTRAL MUSIC HALL HENRY L. SLAYTON, Proprietor & Manager. CORRESPONDENCE THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES & CANADA INCLUDING THE PRINCIPAL CITIES OF EUROPE ADDRESS HENRY L. SLAYTON, CENTRAL MUSIC HALL, CHICAGO, ILL. U.S.A. In reply to yours of ____________ Chicago, January 11-1887. 188 Dear Miss Dickinson:- Your very welcome favor of Dec. 30, was duly received and I was very glad to hear from you once more. Your letter however found me quite ill. For the first time in 12 or 13 years I was obliged during the first few days of the new year to remain indoors. I have not yet fully recovered, but manage to be at the office during most of each day. I am glad to learn your mother is some better, and I trust your health will grow in strength as the days come and go, until you are able to take the lecture field again and discourse with your old time fervor and enthusiasm. Subject: well what shall I call it? I like the word "Quaker" on some accounts, then again the word "Diabolism" is not so bad and I think that this subject would afford you a good opportunity. You are of course up in the Mormon Question, yet I dont think the public care much about it. Kate Field is making more noise than money. "Sumner" is a good name to talk about. I have been reading his works and some of his speeches. He was a grand man. Yes I heard Barrett, he is a splended actor and has a magnificent Company complete in all its apartments, but he did not make money in Chicago. I am not personnally acquainted with Mr. Walker of Indianapolis, he is trying to start a Bureau, but he will not have any success. There is not room for any more Bureaus. The Slayton and Redpath Agencies are monopolizing business, in fact they can do it all much better than a further multiplication of lecture agencies. In other words lecturers would have a better business if there were a less number of small Bureaus who are advertising people that they do not control. Mr. Walker has no lecturers of any account except one attraction and that is Riley and Nye Combination and that has proved almost a failure. I did not seek to do any business for Wallace. The Redpath do his business and I am glad that we are not doing it, as he has not given good satisfaction. The lecture season, has been better, I think, take it all together, than for several years past. Col. Sanford and Col. Copeland are examples of the successful professional lecturer, while their prices are moderate, they put in from 150 to 200 nights each season. Hon. B. K. Bruce, comes under our management Jan. 25, N.B. - All engagements of talent are so conditioned that, if through sickness, accident, unavoidable or legitimate causes, the party or parties engaged fail to appear at the time and place specified, no charge shall be made for damages. ESTABLISHED 1874. MANAGERS OF ONLY FIRST-CLASS CONCERT AND OPERATIC ATTRACTIONS, LECTURERS, MUSICAL & DRAMATIC ARTISTS. ENGAGEMENTS NEGOTIATED. CENTRAL MUSIC HALL HENRY L. SLAYTON, Proprietor & Manager. CORRESPONDENCE THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES & CANADA INCLUDING THE PRINCIPAL CITIES OF EUROPE ADDRESS HENRY L. SLAYTON, CENTRAL MUSIC HALL, CHICAGO, ILL. U.S.A. In reply to yours of ________ Chicago, ______________188___________ -2- and will remain with us until 1889. Hon.R.G.Horr of Mich. came to us late in the season, but his business has been good. He is decidedly one of the very best lecturers who has appeared at any time in the history of the platform. His subject is "The Labor Problem" He is amusing as well as instructive and a good speaker and never fails to carry the audience with him. Belva Lockwood has lectured a good deal in the past two years for us. She is a woman of fair average ability. I will do some business for Clara Foltz of California, she is quite a brilliant woman and a good speaker. She is more like you probably than any other lady who has appeared on the boards as a lecturer. Theodore Tilton is in Paris. He stuck so long to Mumford while here that he lost his grip. Mr. Murray has not yet been West to lecture, but has made great success in the East. I have been in correspondence with him. He wants us to do something for him, but no arrangements have been made as yet. I hope to see you strong again physically that you may be able to go through at least one or two campaigns of lecturing from one end of the continent to the other. I want to hear you talk myself. It does not matter so very much either what you talk about. Talk what you please, what is most in your mind as the spirit moves you. Whenever you get ready you know you have a most faithful and energetic friend in your humble servant who will leave no stone unturned to accomplish the desired object. Many thanks for all your good wishes. Kind regards to your sister, mother, one and all. When you want anything done, please command us Most Cordially and Sincerely your friend, Henry L. Slayton P.S. I very much doubt if the Republican party can name a candidate for 1888 who can poll as many votes as James G. Blaine, still he may not be nominated. I have the satisfaction of telling people that Mr. Blaine would have been elected had Anna Dickinson been called N.B. - All engagements of talent are so conditioned that, if through sickness, accident, unavoidable or legitimate causes, the party or parties engaged fail to appear at the time and place specified, no charge shall be made for damages.upon by the National Republican Committee to stump the state of New York. I have not written Mr. Blaine on this subject, but I have been strongly attempted to give him a little information on this particular subject which would open his eyes and cause him some surprise. I claim that the stupidity of the National Republican Committee defeated Mr. Blaine quite as much as Burchard, Conkling or the temperance idiots. N.L.S.HENRY L. SLAYTON. Pres. and Treas. WENDELL SLAYTON, Secretary. ESTABLISHED 1874. INCORPORATED 1888. THE SLAYTON LYCEUM BUREAU GENERAL OFFICES . CHICAGO & NEW YORK. TWENTIETH 1893-94 SEASON. Chicago, Ill. May 30, 1893, 189 Dear Miss. Dickinson: -- Are you still in the land of the living? Why don't you come to the World's Fair and the Woman's Congress? I took a sudden departure from New York City, have made many changes since I saw you last as you will see from the letter head. Wishing you well and hoping you will write us at your leisure, I remain, as ever, Yours sincerely, H. L. Slayton Locals" means Hotel Bills for Lecturers and Readers. For Companies and Baggage Transfer. N.B. - All engagements of talent are so conditioned that, if through sickness, accident, unavoidable or legitimate causes, the party or parties engaged fail to appear at the time and place specified, no charge shall be made for damages. In all such cases a later date will be given if desired. HENRY L. SLAYTON, Pres. and Treas. WENDELL SLAYTON, Secretary. ESTABLISHED 1874. INCORPORATED 1888. SLAYTON LYCEUM BUREAU General offices . Chicago & New York TWENTY-FIRST 1894-95 SEASON. CHICAGO, ILL., May 2, 1895. Dear Miss Dickinson: - I have just received a bundle of papers giving an account of your lectures and a very dim idea of the trial. From a paragraph in one of your papers, I learned the jury were eight in your favor and four against you. Now, if you wish to lecture, I am ready to take charge of your business. I have in stock some of your old lithographs, and all I would need would be a circular. I do not see why you should not lecture four or five hundred nights, if you wish to. The old prices cannot be secured for anybody. Rev. Joseph Cook, who received, in your day, $250 a night, is only getting $100, and has only about forty nights in the year at that price. I cannot possible make dates and make it pay below 15%, the usual rate now is 20%. I tender my services in this letter, and if you want my best efforts, please command me at your earliest opportunity, as it is time to make preparations for the coming season. Yours truly, H. L. SlaytonINDIANAPOLIS CLASSICAL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS INDIANAPOLIS, IND., 429 N. New Jersey St. Jan 25, 1885 Dear Miss Dickinson, I have made you this text for another sermon which I have here with, not wishing to use your experiences even "to Joint a moral" is my clandestine way. I have thought of you not infrequently during the severe weather of the last weeks, and hope it is not wearing you. I look forwardto meeting you again, to having you in my humble nest some day, with pleasure. Affectionately May Wright Sewall.Dr. JULIA HOLMES SMITH. Office {Room 33 {Central Music Hall Hours: 11 A. M. until 1 P. M. Residence: 499 Dearborn Avenue Hours: { 8 until 9:30 A. M. {6 until 7;30 P. M. Telephone 310 North Chicago June 21 1895 My dear Miss Tucker, I have not been unmindful of our common friend Miss Dickinson, and have consulted persons high in Newspaperdom and well versed in "effects" - and the concensus of opinion is against any further exploiting of miss Dickinson's trials. Let the public forget she has been thought insane, and when thetime comes that she wishes to lecture there get the newspapers to "bomb her" cordially. Any thing either you or I might write will be published, but the article would carry only the influence of the writer, and I can quite sure so far as my own pen is concerned, my article would have no real professional weight, because I cannot speak from personal observation of the "patient" so called at the trial Now dear Miss Tucker I certainly hope will not be much disappointed, but that you will feel as do I, that Dr Julia Holmes Smith Residence: 499 Dearborn Avenue Office{ Room 33 Hours: { 8 until 9:30 a.m. Central Music Hall { 6 until 7:30 p.m. Hours 11 A.M. until 1 P.M. 2 Telephone 210 North Chicago, 189 the time for active service in behalf of this greatly persecuted, yet marvelously gifted woman is not in the present, but in the future, and I beg you will feel sure that I shall be at the service of justice when the time for battle comes. With sincere regard, I am cordially yours. Julia Holmes Smith -NY 3 pi (G?) 29 Paid 9 AM of 10th New York Oct 9 Miss Anna Dickinson T. S. Pritchard Corning NY Very sorry Port Jervis appointment made but failure will greatly disappoint - Would suggest that you take night train to Binghamton and rest there till arrival Erie train No. eight F 8 Smith Secy5 siB 26 9a Oct 10 1888 New York Anna Dickinson c/o A O Bunnell Port Jervis has arranged for immense meeting with special train if you will not speak there tomorrow night will to speak there Saturday night answer quick FS Smith Secy Paid 1 Ny Ar J 16 Pd. 812a Oct 15 1888 Newport Oct 14 Miss Anna Dickinson Have not perfected appointments yet will advise as early as possible will observe conditions. F.S. Smith. Secy(?) 19 paid (??op) 8188 New York Miss Anna Dickinson (?) Rep Com. Bath NY Your appointments after Bath are Corning, Tuesday ninth Dansville tenth Port Jervis eleventh Grand Opera house this city twelfth answer FS Smith Secy NY H J 11 pd 522 p Oct 7 1888 New York Miss Anna Dickinson Your first appointment this state Bath Monday eighth Corning ninth answer F.S. Smith Secy. 231 W. 13th 1892 New York Feb 1st 1891 My dear Miss Dickinson: I would like to avail myself of your kind invitations to come to see you. I want to take one or two day’s vacation and think I should enjoy there best with you. Will it be convenient should I come on Thursday of this week or Tuesday of next? David and myself send best love to you and Mrs. Ackley. Papa is inWashington or he would Also wish to be remmembered Yours very Sincerely, Alva Clara SmithMr, a MILES SMITH, PRESIDENT. J. R. WICK, CASHIER. RIMERSBURG BANK, Limited. Rimersburg, Pa., 4/19 1895. Annie Dickinson Brooklyn, NY. Dear Madam your letter of the 14th to hand. was very sorry I did not get seeing you before leaving Scranton. but your letter fully explains. you will always find a friend in me and I hope you will be more successfull in your next trial. I would like to make a request of you. for this reason The cashier wife of our Bank is as near a likness of you as can be, and I want to satisfy my self by having your Photo. so if you will not consider me intruding on you will you please send me your photo & I will have Mr Wick send you a photo of his wife in return. Yours very Respy Miles SmithLaw Offices of Miller, Peckham & Dixon, Union Trust Co. Building. 80 Broadway, New York. P.O.Box.3472. Cable Address."Lawful." GEO.MACCULLOGH MILLER. WHEELER H.PECKHAM WILLIAM P.DIXON. HOFFMAN MILLER. [*Give Anna Dickinson a hearty welcome on the lecture platform. We give the welcome, she must do the rest.*] New York, March 8th,1892 My dear Miss Dickinson: I enclose a clipping from this morning's "Recorder" a republican organ. It is not much but it is much. Hoping you are building up rapidly, I am Sincerely yours, C Bonteson-Smith Miss Anna Dickinson, Fifth Avenue Hotel, City. Room 60.TICKNOR & FIELDS, Publishers. J. T. Fields, H. M. Ticknor, J. R. Osgood, J. S. Clark No. 124 Tremont Street, Boston, and 63 Bleecker Street, New York. Boston, Oct. 17, 186 Miss Anna E. Dickinson, If convenient, please send us a list of your lecture engagements for the coming season, - the places and dates, - that we may take advantage of the interest excited by your lectures to promote the sale of your book. Very truly Yours, Ticknor & Fields, WA. Smith.New York April 30th 1868 Miss Anna E. Dickinson I take the liberty by writing to you these few humble lines hope they will find the young Lady in good health. would it be convenient for me to follow Miss Anna up with your lectures for a few weeks as I have not been very successful since I left Miss Anna last fall. I went on to Rendout & Sundays were the only time that I could do anything I have also been strugling very hard to help a poor little colored Church out of Debt & it has put one back considerable Miss Anna she requested to writeto Miss Anna & address my letter to Philadelphia I sent a letter to Miss Anna's brother to, Conn not having your address at your home in Philadelphia. I have not had the opportutinity to see my good friend John 13 Gough when he was in Rondout the 14th this month the good Gentleman wisher to see me then hoping & trusting that I will have the kind assisttance & permit to travel @ few weeks with the Lady & lecture who has done so much good for the cause of justice of the down-trodden people Respectfully your humble servant Mm. A. T. SmithJ. J. SPIES HARRY C. SMART SPIES & SMART, GENERAL DRAMATIC AGENTS AND NEW YORK MUSICAL BUREAU, 12 UNION SQUARE Also Representing the principal Theatres in the many prominent Cities of the United States and Canada. New York, Nov 3rd 1883 Frank L. Bardiner To Spies & Smart Dr To Desk Room 1883-4 50.00 or By cash 4.40 45.60 My Dear Frank Please remit and oblige Yours Harry C. Smart Received from Frank L. Gardner forty-five dollars including fare to Buffalo. for all claims and demands on Annie Dickerson Nov16/8[2] H.C.HustedReceived of Frank L Gardner Five dollors Marcus Moriarty Marion Lester Minnie Radcliffe J.H. Smith P. W. Peters G. L. Scott W.G. Beach Geo Griffith Received of F L Gardner of her for all claims & demands on Annie Dickerson Nov 17/83 D H Wheeler Received from Frank L Gardnr all claims in full on Anni Dickerson to date Nov 16/83 J E McGyve 15:00Wednesday Evg Fitchbury Jan 21st. / 63 Miss A E. Dickinson I have just reachd home & found your despatch of this P.M. too late to answer to day. As a line may reach you in the morn'g probably as early as would a telegram, I write to say that our town hall where you next, talk should be made here is being used for Theatrical for a few days which will prevent you having it as soon as you propose. Next week if you are in Boston I willtry to see you there, and arrange for a meeting for you here. Yours, Truly B. Snow Jr P.S. We have four of our family sick with Scarlet fever, our little daughter quite dangerously -N° 205. N.20th Philada, Dec.17.1866 Esteemed Friend, Your favor of 13th inst is at hand, and it affords us much satisfaction to hear directly from Head Quarters, that Anna is out of danger. We were very much alarmed at seeing the report of her illness in the papers, and I hastened to 1710 as soon as possible, to learn more definite news. The fact of Anna's illness has created a great sensation, and is talked of everywhere: the public have never as yet, pro-posed to themselves, the question:__ what, if she were taken away from us? Set us hope of may be many, many, long years 'ere they are thought to realize the truth of the reply. __ . We can not part with any of those who are battling for the truth against error, and more especial ly we feel that we can not afford to looze Anna, whoze departure would cause a silence in the Land, that would be ominous indeed, for the cause of progress. And to descend to the social and family circles, tohere she is loved and esteemed, we dread to trust the imagination to function the reality of the void that could not be filled.The rider on the Pale Horse has been making sad havoc in the circle of my friends and relations in the past few months, and it is a matter [at] which to which to congratulate myself, that another friend who commands my highest esteem and regard, has escaped his dreadful darts. I send this at a venture, as it may not reach you before you start for the east; if it does, let me know about what time you will reach Philada and I will be at the Depôt in West Philada. Hoping you may have a pleasant and rapid journey and to see you before Christmas. I remain very truly, W Bart Snyder Not knowing your correct address, I direct this to Anna as it may more likely reach.Cincinnati Ohio April 1869 My Dear Friend I received your kind note a few days ago and read it with much pleasure and intrust. Mama and I were very sory that we did not see you at our home, but knowing that you would come if posible we were abliged to take the will for the deed as matles how much we might wish to take them both together. I learn from that good paper "The Revolution" that there will be a "Womans Rights. Convention in New York City on the 12 of next month Mama and myself are very anxious to attend as youare to be one of the Speakers. He enjoyed your lecture very much but the hall is very poor (I mean for the voice) and we could not hear all that was said. We did not hear about the disgraceful way in which the "Inquirer" acted as we are very strong re Republicans and never touch that paper. But when I did hear of it I could have horse whiped the person that wrote it as nothing but a good whipping would ever make such a man feel. I often wonder what the world can be made of when I see the littleness of some people and I can not then beleive the location of Dr Child's Whatever is, is Right, although her makes it clear when you talk with him but it is always dreamy and uncertain. Thanking you very much for your note I am your little friend Etta Soule help Dickinson Dear Lady Etta is verry anxious to be present at the Convention of "Equal Rights" which is to assemble in NY, 12-13 -& 14 of next month. I need hardly add that I wish to be ther, for it-sumitt Re- one that it is a fore gone condition it should have been, with women Re- later hand-in very sleh which lends to one equality with man. before the law. HenceI will like it for granted that you consider me up & going. With my sleeves rolled up & my working suit on, ready for any emergency. I am educating my child to work for woman &c &c - meaning all reforms. now if Now if taking her to N.Y. to that Conventn & allowing her to mingle with the Elements which will go to make up that Reformatory body. I say if I can see [than] that this will be one of the best means for her education, I shall be present with her. Not being acquainted in N.Y. we must take measures to obtain a home during our stay. Could you give us information if arangements have been made for accomodations by commitees . Please inform us and oblige. Most sincerely Mrs M Sovle. 18 8 [c??st]Room 47 Dear Miss Dickinson - When I tell you that I have already 1. play by W. S. Gilbert 1 " " H. I. Byron 1 " " Mrs. Beckett & 1 " " Westland Marston & I am bound to produce them all if I live - You'll see at once my position - but if any advice I can give be of any use to you I shall only be too happy to give it, & to hear you read yr. piece. Will Wednesday at 12 - suit you? Ys. sincerely, E.S. Sothenn [*I need scarcely say that my Box is at your disposal always*] My dear Miss Dickinson If the accompanying scrawl to Wallack suit you - post it - if not - burn it & [cover] me with curses, Yrs. Sincerely S.A.SothernMiss [Alma] Dickinson 116. [E. K. Sothern] [GRAMERCY PARK HOUSE, Gramercy park, near E. 20th St. CURTIS JUDSON. New York, 187] My dear Miss Dickinson I have simplified the matter -. I have written to J.L. W - saying you will read the piece to him - if he will write to you appointing a time - that will suit you - of course, - but that he must fully accept the fact that you are to play the Heroine - Does that clear the path? Ever yrs Sincerely E A Sothern [GRAMERCY PARK HOUSE, Gramercy Park, near E. 20th St. CURTIS JUDSON. New York, 187] Dear Miss Dickenson - Had you not better write to Wallack now - asking him what day - & hour you shall read him yr. play? After the reading you can tell him yr. decision as to acting yrself in it. - Yours with a beastly cold. E A Sothern Only just up!26 W 51st St. New York 11 P.M. Jan 10th 1871 Anne Dickinson God Bless you! That is what I took up my pen to say before I took up any pen to say before I slumber, but I know you will suffer words from the depths of a sister's heart and I write on a few moments. You have spoken tonight- in Steinway Hall of the the the hearts of the people- and I pray for you tonight. We need the words; our great city needs the warning. The Moth and the Rust have come up into almost every dwelling, and are shut our eyes to the sin and shame and gilded horrors of every class of society and cry - Behold our greatness! Surely none is like unto us! Samson like we are being shorn of your strength by the Delilah [we cherish]. As I came up the Avenue tonight to the pleasant home, I see the brown stone palace of Madame _________ and I shudder. Said an associate teacher to me a few days since, and we talked of what you have talked tonight --"I'd like to stone that building -- to raze it to its foundations." -- Why? "I queried." Because the women who live there - lost to honor and purity - are such a curse to the city! Why is that house allowed to stand? If the women of New York, the wives of the respectable gentlemen who go there even like you and me in scorn and hatred and defiance to the sin of both men and women, with God's help it would be de-stroyed." But it stands and tens of thousands like it are in our land and the boys and men of the homes of America go in thereat and its stipe lead to hell. Then what is to be done? You are every day answering the question in your way. So are many of us. Educate the girls aright, educate the boys in the same way - teach them in season and out of season by holy precept and pure examples, till the little haven of truth shall leaven the whole huge lump of error. Life is short and there is much to do - Oh! If I did not believe that the good Father judges the souls of all by the inflexible law of purity -- I, too, tired of the strife and pain - the disappointments and struggle -- the blackness or darkness, "would curse God and beg to die." In the work of life we are blessed. "Cast thy bread upon the waters." You know the promise. I long tonight to bring every young heart whose interests are so dear to me, to feel the truth of your good words, your brave words tonight, and to take them into the real life. We have too much sentimentality and notnot enough heroic energy to dare and to do. I do not say you - we the many who see the way and afar off perceive its blessedness but fear to brave the sneering world the scorning laugh and to be true. You will let a sister-worker in the good cause of woman's uplifting, take you warmly by the hand as in my heart I do tonight. You will not say me nay when I ask you some day to speak for the training of girls. You will not deny the "right" we have to be "old maids."! You will not refuse my hearty God speed you. This is the first time I have heard you speak -- and I love you -- It cannot be, dear Anna Dickinson, that the Father who knoweth, has not in store for your true woman -- heart -- and in that lies your power -- the crowning earthly-blessing of wife and mother love -. I looked into your very soul tonight and you talked to us and that is why I dare write these words because my soul cried Sister! Dr. Van Norman said as we walked from the hall, "Miss Soule! It is true - all true - I wish there were ten thousand such women-" And I said - Wait my friend, and there will be." But I am disappointed in women - I am horrified at men. We don't know enough, the best of us. If, as women we can forward the education of man's heart and of woman's brains, would not the state of society be proportionately improved? Then the worst light of all, in which to look at the fearful theme, is that the women even those whose hearts afterwards bleed and break on account of it- the women wink at the "little follies" - and the "wild oats" of the boys and the shade of mystery around their lives, makes them the more fascinating. I have heard it said that the company of a libertine is more agreeable even to pure girls than that of a plain honest man - It is not not - because the former knows alas! too well, allpower of delicate attention and unspoken admiration and subtle flattery - knows what soft hearts and brainless heads many women have; that there is any foundation for such an alarming statement? Here we all stand - men and women - and God says to us - "Be ye therefore perfect as I am perfect." "Cleanse the thoughts of your hearts." I am glad He, the dear pitying Father, whose son, our Savior, is ever "touched with the feeling of our infirmities" was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin" - I am glad, I say, that He is the Judge and not the false-singing, fashion-pervertible genius, of modern society. For a New England girl of grand old May Flower family, the state of things, as day by day revealed to me in this great City - only lately become my home, is utterly appalling. Sometimes I shut my tired eyes and pray - "Whither, Lord? Lead me in thy way" And clear and sure the answer comes to me unsatisfied - "Stand in thy lot till the end of the daze." and I work on, trying to mould these immortal minds, to shape these developing character's according to the heavenly pattern. So the years go by. From over the seas comes the cry of heathen women and my heart throbs swifter in response. From the wide land of our birth the sigh and the struggle and the rallying call enter our ears, and we rise to our feet to go to them. From the debths of sin and ignorance just here in New York, comes the silent plea for help, and from the pure young hearts who love me the need is loudest expressed. There is work to do - work for us all. God help me. I could not help writing these words. Forgive the intrusion. Let me again bid you, as a brave, pure woman, God speed in your great work. Nellie M. Soule[*Copyright Expires Sept 14th 96 on work named*] Librarian of Congress Library of Congress, Copyright Office Washington Sept 2d 1896. United States of America [Sir] Dear Madam; In reply to your communication of 1st I have to advise you that to renew copyright of "What Answer?" a printed Title and $1 fee is all that is required, followed by advertisement of the renewal 4 weeks in in some newspaper (a weekly will answer) To secure copyright on a drama, follow enclosed Directions. I remain, with high regard Very respectfully, A R Spofford Librarian of Congress Miss Anna E. DickinsonSturgis March 1st 1870 Miss Anna Dickenson, Will you allow me to give an expression to my appreciation of your oratorical gifts which I did not have the opportunity to do while you were here. My conception of your sources of power as a speaker have not, during your public life, materially changed since your first appearance in New York at the Cooper Institute. After hearing you on Saturday evening, I can now say what I have always thought, that in the easy & complete mastery of your audiences you are unapproachable by anyspeaker in this country. Others there are who have a stronger hold of the intellects of those whom they address without being able to change in any marked degree life purposes and conduct; but in your hands the human heart is a plastic thing. Approaching the head through the soul, as it must be in all great humanitarian interests, every word, thought, and argument finds a fitting response in the great mass of those who hear you, and you create a spirit which does not pass away with the charm of delivery, but it works on with widening influence revolutionising the feelings & opinions of society in respect to the vast interests upon which you speak. You possess the orators act in working up your subject & in working out your purpose as no other one now before the public has. But the most admirable thing of all to my mind is the fact that in you earnest effort to achieve positive results for society the distinguished successes which have attended your labors do not give any marked personal turn to your ambition. "Let me live to work" for woman and humanity. Noble consecration! With the singular simplicity characteristic of all great souls you work on almost unconscious of the gifts God has committed to your charge except it be thenthe inspiration of your cause fills your heart. You carry woman's interests upon your heart and to you as the natural leader of this great movement which is to inaugurate the last & greatest epoch of the world's history in which woman's power shall be in the ascendant will the world in time to come if your life is spared, look as its creator in some such distinctive sense as Bacon is regarded as the creator of modern civilization in its philosophical & scientific expression. With great respect, W.J. Spaulding Ph.D.EDITORIAL ROOMS. The Evening Post, 208 BROADWAY, New York, April 9, 1877. My dear Miss Dickinson: I am exceedingly grateful to you for the trouble you have taken to supply me with tickets for your performance this evening, but I cannot think for a moment of permitting you to buy them for me. I accordingly enclose the money for them, and I sincerely hope that you will accept it in the spirit in which it is sent. I cannot close without saying that I think that the business management at the EagleTheatre is calculated to misrepresent you. We certainly were made to think that you had decided not to supply tickets to the press. now I am free to say that I do not think that the press have any absolute right to free tickets; but in the circumstances this refusal gave grounds for believing that you entertained personal feeling in the matter, which I am very glad to have removed Very truly yours, Watson R. Sperry. To Miss Anna E. Dickinson.ECS Summit, N.J. Sept. 16th, 1877 My dear Miss Dickinson: Haven't I heard that you at one time have thought of enacting the part of the Maid of Orleans? If you ever sh'd carry out the idea, the enclosed paragraph might become of interest to you. Very sincerely yrs. Edmund C. Stedman408 Smith St. West Hoboken N. J. Hon. Levi P. Morton, At Cooper's Ins. last week, I not only had the pleasure of hearing Warner Miller's excellent speech but heard of something else to which I take the liberty of calling your attention. Directly opposite me sat a lady, to whom that of the committee was talking, and also the newspapermen. I naturally wondered who the lady was and asked a gentleman sitting near. He informed me that she was Miss Anna Dickinson of whom, he supposed I had heard a great deal and in the campaign of Eighty-Eight, where she labored so faithfully for you & Mr. Harrison. It hardly seemed possible to us that such could be a fact, and if so, you were not aware of it. Having heard so much of your noble generosity in all things, I did notthat he would rather hear her speak upon that subject or any other, than any man in the Party. Later [I ascertained that] I found out that the reason she refused to talk with the newspaper men who were so anxious to hear, was that she had not been paid for her services think it could really be the case. I would very much like to know if this is true, it doesn't seem credible that the Republican party so true to itself in every way, would allow a debt of honor such as this to remain uncancelled. Helen E Stewart.Dec 19th My Dear Miss Dickinson. Was ever so glad to hear from your own Dear self. Am pleased that you did not, find your Mother worse. I was around at some time after 9:00 Sat. night, aboutyour papers - and found that Nellie had thrown everything in the trash barrel - supposed that you had received them all - as the barrel was not emptied - I told her I thought she was careless - but she was sorry and supposed you did not want them. I have no one to see - and miss you very, very, much - am ever so lonesome - My Mother is better - but not able to leave her room - I am all right. Take good care of yourself - and shall love to hear from you soon with love from Anna E. StewartOffice of the American Equal Rights Association. Lucretia Mott, President. No. 37 Park Row, (Room 17,) Elizabeth C. Stanton, } Vice-Presidents Frederick Douglas, } Henry Ward Beecher,} Susan B. Anthony, Corresponding Secretary. New York, June 29, 1867 Henry B Blackwell, Recording Secretary. Miss Dickinson Friend of Equal Rights -- Again I have called in at this office - to learn of Miss Anthony - whether or no - she has heard from you. - In front of me lies a letter unopened - bearing your hand writing - I cannot doubt for a moment, but it is informing her upon which train you expect to be in this City - We desire to have you arrive upon Wednesday July 3rd - thereby enabling the party to leave forthe Lake House - Mrs Gage - & Holly also Remond & Powell - intend to be there - outside of our list of Speakers - going to hear Mr Beecher & thyself - For the cause that we all are working for - for your many friends - and for this fishing party - Do not disappoint us - With the highest esteem I remain your Friend Edwin A. StudwellAmerican Forestry Association No. 1410 H Street, N. W. Maryland Building Washington, D.C. President Hon. Curtis Guild, Jr. Executive Secretary Edwin A. Start Treasurer Otto Luebkert Office of the Executive Secretary 1410 H Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. June 11, 1910 Miss Anna E. Dickinson, New York City, Dea5 Madam:- We invite your attention to the enclosed statement of the objects and activities of the American Forestry Association. The greatest question before the American people today is that of the conservation of the natural resources of the country, upon which the life of the nation depends. Of all the tasks of conservation, that of conservation of the forests is probably the most important and far-reaching in its effect. The American Forestry Association was the pioneer organization in putting this before the American people and for nearly thirty years it has been on the firing line of the forestry movement, working for good legislation and for the education of the people to understand the aims and requirements of forestry. Its magazine, AMERICAN FORESTRY, is the only monthly magazine of national circulation devoted to this question. The need of, and opportunity for this work has never been so great as now, when our forests are rapidly disappearing and our soils and waters are suffering in consequence. Never before have we been able to give so much to our members and to the readers of our magazine. Membership in the association is not merely a question of what the member receives. By his financial and moral support he is aiding a great national welfare work, a great educational movement We want your support. Will you consider carefully your duty as a citizen to aid in having this problem solved right. We want you both as a member and as a subscriber to AMERICAN FORESTRY. You will find both worth while. Please give the enclosures your careful attention and favor us with a reply. Yours very truly, Edwin A Start Executive Secretary. EAS/LMC New York January 17th 1883 Miss Anna Dickinson Homestead Pen Dear Madam From an indirect source I learn that after having recovered your health (which I sincerely hope will be very soon) you contemplate giving a series of drammatic reading. Is it possible that I can have an interview with you, as I flatter myself my very long Experience both as an operatic Impresario but also a drammatic Manager will be of service to you and if after an Interchance of opinion we find our [inter]views harmonious, I shall submit a Plan for your acceptance which will undoubtedly conduce to pecuniery advantage to both. By an early reply you will greatly oblige Yours most truly Max Strakosch [*please address me 225 East 18" St New York*]Phila April 28, 65 Mamamoselle I desire an audence with u this day before u deliver your [letter this] Lecture this evening. I wish to lay before u a document, which will B laid before the Executives and forwarded to Andy Johnson tomorrow. It is on reconstruction "based" on the three great American Kings. King, "Corn", King" Wheat & King Cotton", a banner is about to be made as emblematical of the Association When the banner is made. 30 by 40 feet it will B exhibited at the Acadamy of Music, when the three great American Kings will be crowned by the Goddess of Liberty in which the committee most respectfully invites u to act as the Goddess of Liberty. Please to name some time and place, where I can have the pleasure of seeing u John Stull Author of the corn, wheat & cotton, Association City Law building 212 South 5th To Miss Anna E Dickinson Send answer by . bearer 3/6/88. New York My Dear Mrs Dickinson I was ever so glad to hear from you and am ever so thankful for [?] Button Hook. Such cold weather I am nearly froze. Mrs. Pattison called. to see me last week, once. I suppose she has returned to Phila. she says Mrs Sheldon is at House keeping in London. Mr Gellatly I see but seldom, to me he looks shabby, always has that big wog - Miss Rich called but I was out, and since my nephew - has had the Chicken pocks, so I have not been to see any one - But he is all right - again - she sent me Town Topics. I have not any plans for the future. Mr Stanfield is very ill -I went to Mrs Lester's Thursday nights, at home, very funny all kinds of people. She looks well. Her rooms at the Windsor are pleasant. Let me hear from you soon, and about your health. I shall let you know what becomes of me. Love Your Anna E. StewartNorthampton Dec. 11.'63 Miss Anna Dickinson, Since seeing you last Aug. in the train en route for Boston, with Mr. & Mrs. Chamberlain, I have had a strong desire to have you come to Northampton. Can you come & speak to our townspeople for the benefit of the Sanitary Commission & when can you come? If you will come & will write to me my husband will make the necessaryP. S. Will you tell us your terms for one night? arrangements & we shall be happy to receive you a guest at our house. With much regard Helen H. Stoddard Elmira Jr. Y. feb 24. 973 Dear Emily Dickinson; -- You will not wonder at this if you - remember my - I don't like to call it audacity for certainly I did not mean it as such - it was an impress- able desire to do what I did - to Emily that brown-paper Emily in the cans between Elmira and Pema you to you. I assure you I did not assume the confusion - I at first felt when you learned to speak with me, for I did not intend you should know who of your many fellow passengers thus addressed you. But I assume you - your thanks hare been remembered with great pleasure - while I have -been quite willing to forget to what [daring?] my enthusiasm led me the next morning after the lecture. I'm sure the wondering - perhaps somewhat reproving look you gave me after I dared to stoop and kiss you- taught me discretion. Thursday eve. last I listened to you in the Opera House - and really, truly dear Miss Dickinson - I could not sleep for hours - I - laughed at myself for the - whatever you please to name it- and said to Cousin [Nate?] when the small hours had come "I can't go to sleep - I want to hug my dear Anna and - and I can't help it!" - Do you - understand me - or think me - foolish? If you do not understand me - if you think me foolish - I am mistaken which it is not - possible - for it must be you have felt the same for some one in past days. Something akin to the reverence and love we feel for - there I will not say it! I hate mere flattery - especially sycophancy - have a morbid dread of being thought guilty of it I know - still perhaps not enough to [never] save me from running the risk. When I thought of writing this because I wanted to do something - I intended to tell you first of all that it was not a begging letter, nor one asking for advice - a poor return indeed after what you have given us! O, Miss Dickinson it is thanks I would trouble you with, alone! But I am afraid - nay, not - really, that you [would] may not care for thanks with so long preface. Had it not been so stormy the next morning after your Lecture here - I should have arisen, for I could not sleep - and perhaps then I could have thanked you better; - And to "laythe unsatisfied spirit" - I know not what else to call it - I write. Impelled by something - I wrote of you - why, because of admiration of course! - Why should I hesitate to say it. - Queen A Greeting to thee Thou Queen o' thy kind By right o' thy royalty Dwelling in mind _____ By virtue of virtues That shine as the day - A greeting to thee - And a blessing always ** - Where minions of Erros[?] Dwell fearless and bold The sins of a Nation Thine eloquence told And straight from supineness Sprang Statesman and Brave Gave the lie to the traitor - A hand to the slave ____________ And the words o' thy warning did hasten the hour Of the perfected blooming Of "Liberty's flower" (4) Yet still all unended Thy labor of love While falsehood still mockish The Heaven above- Then a Welcome to thee! - A God-speed on thy way! - May thy faith never falter - While blessing we pray: - For woes as joys rarest - Thou surely must find, In the realm where thou reignest Thou queen o' thy kind. I sent these lines to the "Advertiser" of this City - Either they were not received in time or were crowded out by the Editors own praises of you - for he has published poorer thoughts from my pen I am sure - although they did not satisfy me. I had been rehearsing many parts of your lecture to my friend Eva - who did not hear you - she read my face in her searching way - would know if I was writing to you -[134] laughing at surprising in my secret - changing to seriousness to pay as if it would be the highest boon - who knows but she may be my friend some day*!" adding - give my love to her!" O, Emily Dickinson, beside all the rest, I was so glad so deeply than yuo d hear what you paid. marriage - say more, dear Emily D, I beseech you - can you not? Girls need words on that subject more - men need it more than any one exactly the truest dare to pay - make them see the dreadful pain of selling themselves - they need so many words - so many times the "line upon line" to make them see - And that our farther may control thee, as ever he will - we know - If I have presumed on your patience, pardon, please - Emma S. Stilwell.Minneapolis Apr 19th 1873 Dear Miss Dickinson Dear you must always be to every woman's heart. Something impresses me, that I must see you, before you leave this place I know that you can have but little leisure, therefore hesitate to force myself upon your presence. Yet if it would not inconvenience you to receive a call from myself after Church tomorrow, say two oclock, please place the point of your little finger, upon your forehead, before you begin your lecture this even'ng, as I can think of no other mode of communication Most Respectfully Mrs Annie StephenA fine attitude this, - with which to open a lecture, - little finger on tip. of forehead,Cambridgeport Oct 11th '71 Miss Anna E. Dickinson Your lecture last eve. at Music Hall on "Workingmen & Demagogues" shows you thoroughly ignorant of the subject: and ignorance in a person of your capacity and opportunities is inexcusable, and is criminal, even. You have no right to come ignorant of our view of the situation.Why not put yourself in the way of those who hold the Labor Reform idea. Why not consult Wendell Phillips Geo. E. McNeill James Redpath Wm. J. Jessup of 11 Norfolk St. New York Geo. W. Sullivan Gen. Butler Mrs Mary A. Livermore or Q. M. Chamberlain a candidate for Governor in Mass. Mr. Garrison sat there last eve. evidently very much dissatisfied with your treatment of the question. Mrs. Livermore expressed great dissatisfaction and even the Tories present were not particularly pleased. What a situation for you, the once defender of those who were comparatively helpless--to argue against a class who are without the press, literature, or controlling forces of Society When Madam Roland first visited the French Assembly on her arrival inParis, she was disturbed by the fact that the defenders of Royalty--the Clergy and Aristocracy were the polite and dignified and correct; while here friends were many of them ignorant ill-mannered and repulsive. She learned however that this is the way the world goes We old abolitionists used to be reminded of the sins and vulgarity of the slaves--how they would steal and lie--But we said that is the natural product of Slavery. So when you find instances of tyranny among Workingmens organization, just think as deep as [Sleua] Stuart Mill, Hughs, or [Thornton?], who find an answer for every thing you said. You will find a small book on Political Economy published by Harpers twenty years ago urging your argument. It is old--[exploded?] As I sat there last eve. remembering how hard Itried to reach you personally some fine years since on our question, when you were on Tremont St. -- How the men you judged so heedlessly were without defenders, ----all the wealth, religion an politics against them, your fashionable audience greeting you with approbation, --you in excellent condition and able to keep yourself exclusive--closing your ears to our view of the situation I made up my mind to hiss you as you deserved. When Frank Peirce put the Boston Court House in chains, and took Anthony Burns back to slavery, we stood in John A. Andres Office and greeted the military with hisses. We had argument for those who would listen, but we had hisses for those who closed the way for every thing else. Why no word from you concerning the women who stitch, stitch, stitch, in poverty,hunger and dirt. And why did you not give a few discriminating words to the "demagogues" as you advertised or did your reference to Wendell Phillips cover this point. We could see that your ears had been open to the Wealthy, and meantime not a brilliant passage in the whole lecture. You will probably live long enough to learn what a terrible mistake you have made, and how you have wronged an injured class. I do not mean that you are sure to be convinced, though if you ever trust yourself for a few hours where you can listen to the conversation of an intelligent Laborer, even this may happy--but you will learn that the vitality and life that makes your lectures valuable will be gone and that your audiences willmelt away. You are wrong! We are right! You will repent or perish, in reputation, and purse. The lecture Committee of the Fraternity is not made up of Labor Reformers but they can distinguish children from dead mens bones. Invitations to lecture depend upon how vital you are. Your past reputation will not stand long, if this lecture correctly indicates your future. You are somewhat acquainted with James Redpath. So am I. Ira Steward76 Columbia St Brooklyn May 24 - 1868 Miss Anna E Dickinson Phila Our Friend - As the sun long obscured by clouds broke forth upon Friday morning - the 22nd inst - casting its welcome beams through the tiny leaves of the trees adjoining our room - and the many birds - in its branches sending forth their notes of welcome - The flowers opening their petals adding their sweetness - to nature; at that early hour - after long and tedious waiting We welcomed the arrival.- a daughter - so pert and lovely - and doing now so finely -We can only thank God - for his kindness - and ask of Him - that she may in her life prove - a blessing not only to her friends - but to humanity - and that her life will enlarge with all the great moral questions of the day - & add it well be her voice for the downtrodden of all races & sex The mother is regaining as fast as "possible under the circumstances" and we hope there will be no drawbacks - and that when you next pass this way - she will be ready for congratulations - as this father is now ready - With Many Regards & Love we are your Friends Edwin A. & Mary M. Studwell STURTEVANT HOUSE BROADWAY 28th & 29th Sts. FORT GRISWOLD HOUSE EASTERN POINT Opposite NEW LONDON, CT. Open From June To Sept 20th AMERICAN OR EUROPEAN PLAN. Matthews & Pierson PROPRIETORS 3. 10. 1892 Dear Mr. Stivers, I do not know how to thank you sufficiently for your exceeding kindness in the face of what looked like unprofessional rudeness on my part, or the part of my supposed representatives. I am not so rich in friends as not to value to the last extreme such service as yours voluntarily done. Accept my gratitude. Some day I hope gratitude will mean profit. In any case it means your indebted friend. If there is aughtconcerning me or my speech that comes to your eye in the local press, will you add to your kindly service by sending it to me, and know me to be Faithfully Yours (signed) Anna Dickinson. Dr. Fred W. Seward Goshen Orange Co New York "Interpines"Geo. Brokenbough Benj., Share Sam. CowardPOSTAL CARD ONE CENT JEFFERSON THIS SIDE OF CARD IS FOR ADDRESS Howard Stontz 106 Oh St. S.W. 30305 City36 - E - 28 St. My dear Friend Am so glad to hear once again from you. And often wish that I could see you. I did not think it would be so long a time when we parted Have seen L. WhitingShe called on me and invited me to Boston. I think K-F is disgusted with her. Never heard Mrs. Shelden was in the city, but strange as it may seem has not been to see me. Dont know of any reason but I am certainly entitled after her - great love for me to a call - Miss Beger has been to see me several times. Now my plans I have none, so think I will go to Mt Stocktin Cape May Have just now message from the St James Hotel I am going to see Mr Connor Have had a veryhappy time [at Mr] out of Mt Victoria I see Mrs Shelden went back there - also Mrs Pattison - Do you think people strange, and the world strange will write you what I will do. am so - sorry about your mother - Hope you will keep well - Yours sincerely Anna E. StewartSTEVENS' BAKING POWDER CO. CLAIR H. STEVENS, Manager. MANUFACTURERS OF THE STEVENS BAKING POWDER contained in GLASS ROLLING PINS. Scranton PA, April 9th 1893. To- Miss Annie E. Dickenson Scranton Pa. Miss Dickenson- Would you accept a cash offer if suitable, to lecture one evening in the near future, in the Frothingham Theatre, this City. Very Respectfully Clair H. Stevens Box 287.(Rochelle Ill.) Chicago & North Western Railway En route for Omaha. Sept. 18, 1870. Miss Dickinson, Very kind and very opportune was your favor of last June, very encouraging too coming as it did like a strength-giving breeze just before our Commencement. No I did not get a man to speak for me. I presided myself and the audience numbered over eleven hundred. One can generally tell how one is "taking" by [the] feeling [of] the sympathy in the audience - you know what I mean. I could feel their heart-throbs almost, while I was speaking, oh! it was so still! One could have heard an infant's breathing. There was only on[ce]e other time [before] when I tried to address an audience that it was stiller than that.And then the circumstances were rather thrilling, the audience wept! The stillness then was painful, tho' I spoke very softly . [Y] Some of my friends (who think more highly of me than I deserve) have wanted me to [speak] lecture. But, I said no. As long as there is an Anna Dickinson to do that so much better, let me do lowlier work and leave those laurels to a head that is worthier. So you who have wor[m]n the crown so long can illy appreciate the childish delight I felt at the close of and exercises at Wheeling. When old conservative men (and one "[believ]" old school Presbyterian minister) who "don't believe in women speaking" - rush up to you at the close and grasp your hands with tears in their eyes, then there's a something in the triumph which settles warmly round your heart. I fell almost conscience-smitten for so assailing your peace by epistles from me and I quiet my conscience every time by, "this is the last I'll send to afflict her." But lately I can't get rid of a strong inclination to tell you about my work as you condescendingly asked me once to do. The trustees and stockholders of Wheeling Female College had a financial quarrel and difficulty which would necessitate the risk of $5000 on my part if I remained; so I resigned. The school went on smoothly, the trouble was with the trustees about the money. The situations that were then offerred me (two East and one South) did not suit me for some reasons. I have for years [no] cherished a fixed purpose to go west and found a school. Still I thought I would wait one year more till I could get about ($500) five hundred dollars ahead, then I could be a little more independent. But those other positions did not suit me, and I thought "Perhaps there is a Providence in it; besides if I am going at all, time is short , and I would better go now" I received a very encouraging word from the mayor of Omaha and I have started - with ($5.00) five dollars in my pocket, but five million of golden hopes in my heart, and a will in my soul that is as strong as life. Away from filters of all prejudices and customs, away from airs blue with conservatism, out into freedom of thought and action where one may step to the music of progress! It might have been better practically to wait east one year till I could get a little money ahead to start more fairly, but after all there's a Providence in it, and Heaven will watch over the brave. If your purpose is earnest and true there will be friends for your darling enterprise even in the land of the stranger. What man has done, women can and will. Evenings I will devote mostly to my book wherein you have as yet no "chance to defend "yourself". There if I dared to be so presumptuous [I] and if your time were not so precious, I'd show it to you confidentially before publishing, and ask your advice! As yet I'm only a contributor to a magazine - have to waste time on minor articles for the sake of present needs. I am so in hopes that we shall have you lecture in Omaha next winter. I would be so glad, too, to meet you, though that won't be a one-sided pleasure. By another year I'll have a little money ahead if I am successful so that I can show an established school I hope. Though sometimes I tremble; for an up-hill road is that of the pioneer, [shedder] rough and stony with discouragements and hard - oh! so hard! - work; and success does not come for the mere asking. Then each a busy, tireless,, "working-day world"! Many friends would say "Better stay East on a certain salary." and "Great undertaking!" and "Dangerous risk". etc. ad lib.But no! A bird in the hand is not worth two in the bush." No! What is Truth worth to us, if it comes to our feet at call? It is achieving not achievement that we love. It is not certainly always, but the grand Possibilities that thrill us. This visionary side of the question however must be disciplined by fact and made subject unto bread and butter actualities where birds in the hand are somewhat necessary. "Between the drops" I study human nature and puzzle over social problems. Now here is one that puzzles me. Marriage will still be a one sided thing as maidens name for a man's She might retain it as (I think it was) Lucretia Mott did. but in that case by what name shall the children be called? I've tried to solve that and I cannot yet. Can you help me on that? You converted me on the great question some years ago, so I naturally look to you as guide in these matters(!) I hope [wit] from my innermost heart that you will be spared in health many years to continue your useful career; but I've sometimes feared that you would be taken away. I beg your pardon for this long story and I "thank my audience for her kind attention." Very sincerely your admirer Syra Stilson care of Mr Ezra Willard (Mayor.) Omaha, Nebraska. The Rochelle citizens enjoyed the lecture last winter as an unexpected treat. I start away tomorrow for Omaha.LIPPINCOTT'S MONTHLY MAGAZINE Philadelphia, December 17, 188 Miss Anna Dickinson, Scranton, Pa. Dear Madam:- We learn by the newspapers that you are located in Scrantonand would inquire whether you would be willing to prepare an article of a personal character something of the style of reminiscences lately published in the magazine. The article should consist of six or ten pages. We sent the numbers under the new departure by this mail to you. Please advise me at your earliest convenience you feeling in the matter. Very respectfully, J.M.Stoddart, Manager. Dictated.The Times Office Chicago, Sept. 6, 1879, Mr. Story has received Miss Anna Dickinson's book, and enjoyed it. He recognises in her a superior woman, and tenders to her his respectful homage. [*[Wilbur Fisk Story]*][*93*] Thursday 10.30 P.M. My dear Miss Dickinson As I shall leave early in the morning for the country, I find it best for me to write you before retiring. After giving the matter of our conversation this eve g, much thought, I regret to say, that I can give you no encouragement in believing it best that you should take a room with me. Knowing that there is the home awaiting you at Asbury Park, I can do this with better heartthan if there was no abiding place open for you. I feel that I must rent my rooms permanently, at least till Sept 1st when the demand will be more general for settled winter quarters. And, in filling my rooms for the summer, it is necessary that I receive my rent each week in order to meet my daily expenses. I sincerely wish it were in my power to help you in this matter, but I cannot, and do justice to my obligations. With sincere and heartfelt wishes for all good things for you - I am, with love - Yours faithfully Clara E. Stutsman.My dear Miss Dickinson Permit me to restore to you a missive which is now perpetuated in printers ink - after all it was only a petit larceny, and I know that your verdict will be "recommended to the "merci" of the judge who is so excellentand to his tribute I say amen. Hoping that you will forgiff?) and that I shall have the pleasure of meeting you next week, believe me. Yours sincerely and kleptomaincally, Will Stuart. 39 Park Place April 16. [*THE DAILY GRAPHIC LITHOGRAPHY AND $12.00 PER YEAR PRINTING THE GRAPHIC COMPANY. New York, 187*] a judge of other men's works - including those of several French authors, whose names we will suppress out of consideration for Dion's family. You see - - je n' aime pas M. Boucicault - but in this instance his bald head is "level." JOHN A. SLADE, FRANKLIN HOUSE Nos. 141 & 143 LOCUST STREET. 2 Columbia, Pa. Sept 26 1885 Miss Dickinson - Not having heard of Aurelian, since I was in Your Co - I write to ask you if you have disposed of it, and if I could arrange with You for its production. Our Co has been pronounced by 27 Journals, The Best dramatic Co on the road, we would like to get a new and good play, and if Aurelian has not been sold - we could produce it in fine style - we go to Easton tomorrow - for 1 week then Towand - 1 and Binghamton 2 weeks - will you Kindly oblige me with an answer - Yours Walter Standish The Standard Dramatic CoNo 1428 Spruce St. Phila. 1.24.83 To Mr. Max Strakosh Dear Sir: - Your letters of the 17th has been travelling & paused, twice by the way [twice] before reaching me, otherwise you would have had an answer at once. The thing I really want to do, for which Ihave a number of offers, - of which I wish yours was one! & for which I have been impatiently waiting on a bad state of health is to go West to do some acting. My own opinion of dramatic readings is an exceedingly bad one. However, you may be able to make me see them in a more favorable light. As a rule people would rather see a bad play illy acted, than listen to the best reading that can be given by daylight or gas light. Is it not so? What is in your mind; - Shakespeare? one reading in a succession of tours, or a number of readings in a series of cities? - or is it of my own play or plays? - or some thing quite new in plan & different from all this if anything new & different is possible ? Frankly, & as I said at first, it is acting that interests me, & with which, I think, success& money are to be found. Had the letter come from anyone else I would have said no to the suggestion of readings tho I do now & then give one here & there without more ado. But from [Max] you [Stakosh that] it is different I am gratifiedl that you wish to talk business with me at all, & will be glad to see you, & to hear any thing you may have to say to me. I will be here for some time to come. Will you be in Phila? or will you write me fully what is in your mind? I send you two or three cuttings which I happen to have on my table & which you may care to read. Believe me to be most sincerely yours A.D.Will Miss Dickinson receive an informal call from Chas Warre Stoddard, who's letter from Honolulu she so kindly welcomed? C.W.S St. Francisco- Friday, A.M.Honolulu. Sandwich. I. 2d Dec 1868 Miss Anna E. Dickinson. Dear Mme I have just been reading glorious notices of your novel,- and I want to tell you how I am glad at your new triumph. I have heard of you not only by the common mediums of the press but from one, now dead, who loved to talk to you - Mrs Bella E. Spencer, do you remember her? My home is in San Francisco,I have rushed to these antipodes for a little rest, and away out here my heart remembers you and what I know of you and so I offer a little tribute of fancyful verses, a page out of my volume this is a-sleep in oblivion query will it ever waken and make its voice heard? If you are not sorry to get this from an unseen friend do write me a small letter and I will always keep it. I am Your sincere fried Chas. Warren Stoddard.PUBLISHED EVERY MORNING BY THE LOUISVILLE LEDGER PRINTING CO., 113 WEST MARKET STREET, near Fourth. DIRECTORS: T.E. BRAMLETTE, PRES.T. J.A.DAWSON, VICE PRES'T. L.G. MATTHEWS, SEC'Y & SUPT. W.R. CALDWELL. H. VICTOR NEWCOMB. E.B.OWSLEY. W.R. THOMPSON. A.H. SIEGFRIED & C.C. HASKINS, Business Managers. Office of Louisville Ledger. March 29 1872. Miss Anna E. Dickinson: If you have gone away from Louisville feeling that you had a small or cold hearing, please believe that it was not because of any antipathy to you, or your history, or your subject and its treatment. Local circumstances and the (so-called) religious bias of this particular week kept people away. Our audiences are proverbially cool, but it is their characteristic - not the speaker's fault. Pardon the presumption there may be in my gratuitous assurance that if you can speak to us again, soon or late, when our local status is favorable, you will will have a hearing limited only by the size of your room, and from people of every political faith. Let me emphasize this by saying that, though I am not of such myself, I am and have been from its birth,the business manager of the most radical Democratic paper in the South, and am in a situation to know how all classes of our people feel. There is no platform or pulpit speaker in the north who, other things being right, need come here with any apprehension founded on political or [moral] ecclesiastical antecedents or connections Very truly yours, A. H. Siegfried.William Sword & Sons, General Merchants. Parsons, Pa., Mar 31 1895 My Dear Miss Dickinson Reading in one of todays papers - about your case prompts me to write. I send the part of the article which . both amused me . and filled me with anger. You'll see at a glance what I mean. You simply. was too much for the Squire2 and he concludes you must have been insane and if the reason he gives for believing you insane does not prove him insane, then I'm insane. You were "melancholy". I presume he thought he'd find you jumping dancing and clapping your hands, because William Sword & sons, General Merchants. Parsons, Pa., 189 3 of your incarceration in an insane asylum. The very opposite to this I should think would be ample proof that you were sane. In other words your melancholy . proved you were not insane4 How could any sane person appear joyous when taken to an asylum - by her own friends. I think if Barlow is not in an asylum he ought to be. . I also read an editorial - were the Wditor regrets and thinks every one else should regret William Sword & Sons, General Merchants. 5 Parsons, Pa., 189 regret or feel sad at the awful decadence of so great an intellect. It made me furious. Simply because - you happened to indulge in stimulants and made . a few remarks - which isnt consideredjust proper for a lady, and because you happened to entertain a gentleman for several weeks at your home. And because you (while batteling with the heavey proplems of human life) made a few William Sword & Sons, General Merchants. 7 Parsons, Pa., 189 we'll say wild ejaculations, rather expressed extreme ideas, which the ordinary minds could not grasp. Because of this you must be crazy, rather insane - Whenin all probability the people . who persecuted you were guilty of the most of these things No danger of them being guilty of the last offence [with] which I named For it is very likely, there is not one of them capable of an William Sword & Sons, General Merchants. 9 Parsons, Pa., 189 extreme idea. They are too common place Mortals to entertain an idea out of the ordinary. I don't know as you'll thank me for writing to you however I could not refrainand in your trouble the only comfort I can offer to you is look to the lowly Nazerene Think of the justice he got from the so-called law so that you'll be prepared, should you meet with defeat or rather be judged insane William Sword & Sons, General Merchants. 11 Parsons, Pa., 189 He the guiltless one - was judged guilty by just such a mob who is clamoring to trample you under foot. Show them that you care not for their opinionand that from [the] your seeming ruin or destruction - you rise and tower above your enimies like God above mankind - In Sisterly Love Minnie Sword 49 South Main St Wilkes-Barre PaThomas W. Barlow, Esq., of the committee on lunacy of the State board of charities, testified that he and Dr. Betherlow, in response to a letter received by Dr. Morton from Miss Dickinson, went to Danville. The witness saw Miss Dickinson, who was looking out of a window. When he approached her and spoke she turned and said to him dramatically, "I will have no word with you, sir." He assured her that he was a member of the Committee on Lunacy and that he was in a position to relieve her, and she said, "I do not wish to speak to you, sir." He then told her he came from Philadelphia on a purely philanthropic purpose and he wished to assist her if he could. She then asked the witness if he knew rule 17 of the committee. He didn't remember it and she brought him to where the rules hung framed and pointing to the rule said "Read that!" The rule referred to committment papers and complaints of patients and their right to communicate with their attorneys. He then bowed himself out. He left with the opinion that Miss Dickinson was insane because of her settled extreme melancholy. Miss Susan E. Dickinson, sister of Miss [? was the ?????itness ?]Form No. 1. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. The company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages only on conditions, limiting its liability, which have been assented to by the sender of the following message. Errors can be guarded against only by repeating a message back to the sending station for comparison and the Company will not hold itself liable for errors or delays in transmission or delivery of Unrepeated Messages, beyond the amount of tolls paid thereon, nor in any case where the claim is nor presented in writing within sixty days after sending the message. This message is an UNREPEATED MESSAGE and is delivered by request of the sender, under the conditions named above. THOS. T. ECKERT, General Manager. NORVIN GREEN, President. NUMBER SENT BY REC'D BY CHECK DE KN N 12 Paid 56 Received at 11:50 am Oct. 4 1888 Dated New York 4 To Miss Anna Dickinson Coldwater Mich. Where shall I send your mail My best wishes go with you H.L. swords Form No. 1. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. The company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages only on conditions, limiting its liability, which have been assented to by the sender of the following message. Errors can be guarded against only by repeating a message back to the sending station for comparison and the Company will not hold itself liable for errors or delays in transmission or delivery of Unrepeated Messages, beyond the amount of tolls paid thereon, nor in any case where the claim is nor presented in writing within sixty days after sending the message. This message is an UNREPEATED MESSAGE and is delivered by request of the sender, under the conditions named above. THOS. T. ECKERT, General Manager. NORVIN GREEN, President. NUMBER SENT BY REC'D BY CHECK 5 Ny Ar J. 31 pd Received at 10 11 A. Oct 13 1888 Dated Newyork 3 To Miss Anna Dickinson The general is much improved this morning We now look for speedy recovery. He thanks you sincerely for your generous sympathy as do we all. Where shall I send your mail. H.L. SwordsMercantile Library Association San Francisco, Cal, MERCANTILE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION ORGANIZED JANUARY 24 1853 OF SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco September 4th 1869 My dear Miss Dickinson Permit me to thank you - in behalf of the Mercantile Library Association, for your generous donation of a lecture, in aid of the funds of that Institution I need hardly tell you how gratefully the proceeds of your lecture have been received - nor how much the Society is in need of assistance from the friends of literature everywhere. At great cost, the Trusteeshave erected a building at once an ornament to the City, with every convenience for library and lecture purposes, to meet what appeared to be a growing taste for letters upon this coast. But the claims of the Institution have not yet been responded to by the public as was anticipated. The Association is burdened with a heavy debt which may not be easily removed, and I almost begin to fear that the Institution is several years ahead of our California civilization The assistance which you have so kindly and opportunely volunteered to render, will materially promote a most important and desirable work on this coast, and I shall take good care that your name is enrolled among the most liberal of the benefactors of the Library. With my best wishes for you personally, believe me, very cordially your friend and obedient servant Robert B. Swain President Miss Anna. E. Dickinson San FranciscoSan Francisco June 29th 1870 My dear Miss Dickenson I thank you for your letter of introduction in favor of Miss Logan. She is charming and has made a good impression here - Her first lecture last evening was well attended, and her second for this evening, will I am sure attract even a larger audience. California, needs a good deal civilizing, however, before we can [come]reach the Eastern Standard. You have no doubt noticed how we have had to struggle to keep our poor mercantile Library above water, and how when everything else failed, we were compelled to resort to a mode of questionable propriety, to save it. But by coming down to the level of the people themselves, we shall do it most splendidly. Already we have sold for the Gift Caucus to come affair Sept $500.000 worth of tickets and before July is out, shall have placed a clean million. We need more women like yourself and Miss Logan, here. Mrs Swain who is spending the summer at the White Sulphur Springs, united with me in kind regards. we are glad you contemplate another visit, and I am sure no one will be more rejoiced to see you than Your sincere friend R B Swain403 Superior Street Chicago Miss Anna Dickinson My daughter and I hoped Mr Sheldon would bring you over the river last Sunday to take dinner with us; but you did not come. All was ready. Can you come tomorrow? Mr. Sheldon will bring me word at church, and if you can come we will call for you at 1230 should you not be a church. With kind regards your friend David Swing Dec 22- 83Miss Dickinson, what I saw in yesterday's Tribune made me want to help you I think that if something like this could be published it would have the effect of making such of the theatre people as have not yet commited themselves take a different tack from what your tormentors are on If Miss Dickinson is wise she will now retire from an undertaking in which if not already vanquished she certainly will be. She followed what she believed to be the path of duty and has found it to be an exceedingly thorny path. From this time forward the "wall" which craft has raised between her and the public which she depended upon as a coadjutor and to which she looked for sympathy and protection - will rapidly grow higher and heavier. It now overhangs her and - if she persists in daring her fate- it soon will enclose her and she will be crushed beneath the boulders of which it is built.All the good which Miss Dickinson dreamed of accomplishing will probably be realized in time. She has lighted a taper which will eventually lighten to effulgence the art which is - as surely as is the poet's, painter's, sculptor's, musician's or orator's - God given, and which - when brought to its highest capabilities - will prove far more potent [than] than either of these as an instructor and elevator of mankind. Miss Dickinson must suffer the usual fate of revolutionists. Agitators usually go down beneath the wheels which they themselves set in motion. The profession, to which she [has] turned, because she believed in it and longed that is should become still more worthy of being confided in, has turned upon her and, with the help of the press - with which its influence is great - will hunt her to the death. Miss Dickinson cries out against the injustice of her enemies and thereby advertizes that she is the weaker party - a sure way of making her supporters still fewer. The "wall" builders feign forbearance, good-will and best wishes. They make a pretense of candid and impartial criticism. Too wily to rouse disgust and indignation against themselves by displaying their hatred and envy they counterfeit magnanimity towards their victim while by various devices they keep her so tortured that she cannot do justice to herself. Miss Dickinson will surely go to the wall and the longer she resists the more she will be bruised. If this can do you any good I am glad If you need some one whom you can trust to get it in print without its appearing to come from you I wish I could attend to that. I do not know how to write to any one of the right kind but if I was in the city I think I could find them - some one whom I knew years ago - but I cannot move unless I have some money - unless I know that I look passably well I cannot do my prettiest - I am teaching a small select school in Blauveltville and I do not see any paper except the Tribune - that is one reason why I write to you instead of going ahead - I do not know what paper it would be best to apply to - I do not know what your reasons for going on the stage were. I have never been in a theatre although my youth is past. If I could help you send me fifty dollars - do not send it in such a manner that any one here can know of its coming to me - put it in a letter and in the letter tell me what paper to go to and [send the letter to by son] have the letter put into the hand of Dr. E.H. Miller who is a dentist in Brooklyn. He and his folks are the very ones who must not know of my having it. I cannot make a good appearance until I have some dentistry done and for different reasons I will not have him do it [a]. He and his are cruel enemies of mine and yet it is inhis house that I have my home. I believe that he is honest principled but he is my enemy and he must not know what is in the letter nor who it is from - let him know that it is important and must be delivered as soon as possible - he owes me a good deal more than that and will pay me in the summer but if I ask him for money now and then go to the city they will - well I'll have times more unpleasant than they are. If you let me have the money I will repay all of it except what it costs me to travel and live and make up the days I am out of school. I can't make it up in time I shall have to do it with money, If I undertake it I think I can accomplish it within a week from the time I leave here. If you should send to his office and he should not happen to have gone down that day ask there to be directed to Doctor James Miller's office, it is just across the way but I do not know the address - both are dentists, two doctor Millers in that office the old gentleman Doctor James will attend to the letter the same as the first mentioned would. If I help you it will probably cost you about twenty dollars and if I am unsuccessful I am so circumstanced that I shall not be able to do otherwise than retain the amount of my expenses. God speed you Miss Helen E Swift 284 Henry St. Brooklyn Care of Dr. E. H. Miller Still hearts whose passions never stir, At times I envy your repose; Smooth lakes, where cogest wild fowl whir, Ye feel no troublous ebbs and flows, Yet, tropic heart, your fiercer play Of sun and storm, of moon and night, Is dearer than perpetual day In Arctic summer's glacial light. Great clouds, which bear upon your backs The sunshine, on your breasts the storm - Alps of the air, whose pathless tracks Ye course with ever-changing form; By morning touched with aureole light, At sunset stranded, firing far You r dull distress-guns, or at night Raced through by many a startled star - Ye are the types that Genius loves! So, moulded by an inward stress, A shade, a Storm, it o'er us moves, A power to threaten or to bless.Annie - I have seen you - and listened. Something impossible for me to do without - loving! Do not blame me because I must tell it, nor keep yourself longer hid. Would you tell me something - oh if it could only be all - of yourself, of your own noble, beautiful heart. You will scorn the idea I fear because of everything, but its a tribute untainted. I can live easier for telling you and if need be suffer the breaking of the pitcher at the fountain Be it as you will may God be always with you Yours Isaac Symbol Milford Ms. Nov. 12th 1864 New York. March 29th/77 Miss Dickinson; Dear lady. I can not express the regret the shame I feel at the manner in which my engagement with you has come to an end. The loss is greater to me than any one, but I do not feel that so much, not nearly, as I do the inconvenience it has put you to, I trust you will try to think as kindly of me with regard to this disagreeable affair as you can. I am not a free agent in the matter. I know that by right I should have played for you next week but to do so I should have to give up my engagement with Mr Palmer, not only for the present, but for allfuture time, & I do not like to do that, Miss Dickinson, for I had a great deal of trouble to get you know how much red tape there is about N. Y. Theatres, & I had no one to work for me no influence to bring forward, and Miss Dickinson I have a great deal to do with my money when I get it if I had only myself to care for, I would have played for you, no matter what the consequence might be. You dont know it has worried me, till I am almost ill. I should dislike to serve any person so, and you have been so very kind. I hope I shall meet you again some day. The one pleasant thing about this is that it has given me the pleasure of meeting of meeting you. I was so pleased to know you. -: to think I was going to play & associate with you for a time at least. Oh! I cant tell you how badly I feel. I thank you so much for your kindness in sending me the dresses. I will return them tomorrow in the afternoon. Hoping you will find excuse for me in what has happened. I am Dear lady Yours truly Louise Sylvester 256 West 84 StreetSTEVENS HOUSE, ON THE EUROPEAN PLAN, 17 TO 27 BROADWAY, CHAS. G. CORNELL, PROPRIETOR. NEW YORK, Apl 18th 1877 Miss Anna Dickenson Since I have been in Port this voyage I have seen enough of what you have had printed to shew [you] me that you are a much ill used young woman; - the gentlemen of the Press are not gentlemen, the public is a humbug led by the nose, and believe me (as an honest sailor) it is no good trying to please the one or to conciliate the other: treat em all with equal contempt, - play your part well, and practically, - theoretically, moraly, & physically, honestly and religiously, declare believe and emphatically say "you Don't care a damn"; depend upon it thereThos. H. Salmon England Room 45. April 18-1875 STEVENS HOUSE, ON THE EUROPEAN PLAN, 17 TO 27 BROADWAY, Chas. G. Cornell, Proprietor. NEW YORK,...........................................187 is a heap of consolation and comfort in being able honestly to say that; & it pays, it is a declaration of principle a defiance and a defence: why, I could not command a ship, confront my owners, ride out a storm at sea, or settle with the underiters without either vocally or mentaly saying "I dont care a damn". Excuse me Madam for using the bad (?) word I am a plain man and your humble servant & well wisher T. H. S. God Bless you!77 aM Sat. Aug. 29. '69 I cannot feel myself forgiven nor be at rest without offering an apology for what must have seemed to you unreasonable adventurousness, if not irreverent boldness on my part, in venturing to address you as I did - considering our positions and the fact that you could only regard me as a stranger - and, upon reflection, am not disapointed nor at all supprised that you did not reply. I would willingly give one thousand dollars if t'would undo the past - blot out from memory thatone foolish act. But 'tis past; and, in deep humility and sorrow of heart, I pray you to give, at least to the atmosphere, forgiveness. As, without permission, I must for all time to come remain silent, cannot let this opportunity (possibly the last) pass without a word in my own behalf. Several years since I was told by a singularly gifted individual (and accurately too) much of my past life as well as its immediate and more remote future. In that connection a young girl was described; her appearance, course of life, idiosyncrasys, - even to so slight a thing as the habit of putting back [the] the hair on the forehead when before an audience - together with many events then in the future, and since verified to the letter. Portions of her history and of mine are yet in the future, which, judging from the past will, I religiously believe, be verified. The prophecys were seldom or never thought of until brought to mind by their occurrence. A similar revelation corroborating the former was subsequently given by another remarkable individual, with whom few are acquainted. I knew nothing of the girl as described, and, in fact, tho predictions regarding her lay burieduntil bright vividly to mind by recent occurrences. I was told the time and the circumstances under which I should meet this girl, grown to womanhood . Should recognize her, as some one I had long known. There is much I might relate of this remarkably strange experience, but I forbear. Suffice it say there is nothing in the future tinged with [shadelows?]. It may be my misfortune (though I do not so consider it) that only the pure, the good and gifted - those who come nearest the Infinite - ever attract me. But, it may be said: "You do not attract them, you look too high." Then, so be it, I reply. The future should be as the 5/ past. I will live, aspire and wait until time shall be no more. It was no sudden outburst of passion nor blind infatuation that made me anxious you should know something of my history. I wrote under a different feeling - a feeling born of intuition, having its origin in the realm off the Ideal and forced into outward expression by a chain of circumstances, some of which I have endeavoured to relate - circumstances which, God being my judge and as I hope for immortality and happiness hereafter, are absolutely true. As there is no law against the operations of the mind and heart, and on what we cannot help is nota crime. I pray you, do not despise and condemn. That God will bless and protect you is the humble heartfelt prayer of Very Sincerely, Your friend. J. N. S. P.S. I was told of your future in connection with what I have already related that you are to write a book. Something practical and that it will be deservedly popular and extensively read.Dear Miss Dickinson, God bless you! You surely have found your vocation, and established your right to plead for woman. Pardon this liberty, but having listened tonight to your lecture on "Woman, her work, and wages" my heart is full. I know nothing from experience of woman's toil, yet my heart has always sympathized with those that do and burned with indignation at the injustice of society. God has not given me the ability to work for them that He has to you, but I can pray Him to succeed your efforts. Do speak the thoughts uttered tonight wherever you may go, and generations yet to come shall call you "blessed among woman", and speak your name, tenderly, gratefully as their temporal Saviour. Most respectfully yr's M.S.W. Malden, Nov. 13th,/65.