Feinberg/Whitman Box 16 Folder 21 General Correspondence Stafford, George & Susan M. May 1876 - Aug. 1887 Includes verso letters from Herbert H. Eldrist and Harry L. StaffordApril 4th 1878 [?] be glad to hear that [???] [?thing] be [the?] I hope that you will soon be able to come down again to stay with us a week or two Debbie wants to se you for something very particular & wishes evry day that Mr Whitman would come down. we all want to se you so much dont wait to get well before you come we will take good care of you [here] here. George is busy planting potatoes & getting ready for[e] corn planting he is trying to get his work a long while he has such good help [?] with love to [?] M StaffordCamden 7PM N. J.KIRKWOOD MAY 1 NJ Mr Walter Whitman No. 431 Stevens. St. Camden NJ [*from Mrs Stafford May 1 '76] Kirkwood May/ [1st?] /76 Mr Whitman Dear Sir I intended to send you A few lines this morning by Harry but he went off in such A hurry I did not get time It is of him that I wish to speak & I Hardly know what to [jay] say.. I am A Little bothered About him I fear he is giveing you to much trouble I am rather sorry that he left the New Republic office in such A hurry at least while he had another place as he does notlike to work on it farm. he spoke of getting A situation In the park I do not think He can his age & size will Be against him there I will feel better satisfied [about him] if he can get an office or better still for him to be with you but I fear he is to much trouble to you all ready I do not think it right to impose on the good nature of our friends I hope Harry will ever be greatfull to you for your kindness to him I think you will understand me [?] we hope to see you out with us soon respectfully S M StaffordHome Wednesday Evening Jan 31/77 Dear friend we received your wellcome Letter last evening & was glad to hear from you & to know that you are well & happy with your friends in the city. We are al well as usual I have just returned home from Red Bank where I was called to see my Dear Mother who is at this time to all aappearences near Death to day when I left her I felt that it was to be the last time that I should see her alive. Dear frend you can judge of my feelings better than I can discribe them. we shall look fore you down with us Tuesday but please do not think ofgoing back in one day I shoul not get to se you at all Surely you can give us more Than one day from your friends I know they can make you more comefortable than we can but they do not care fore you more than we [please?] [?] [?tions] ever your friend S. M. StaffordWALT WHITMAN AUTOGRAPH LETTERS 1880 July 13 WHITMAN, WALT to George and Susan Stafford Autograph Letter, Signed. CWW, VOL. III, NO. 9o3 FEINBERG COLLECTION OF WALT WHITMAN[*14*] LONDO PM [?Y] 13 EO OR George and Susan Stafford Kirkland (Glendale) New Jersey U S A London Ontario Canada July 13 pm My dear friends all I am still laid up here quite sick -- last week has been about the same as the previous one with me -- I am up & drest but dont go out -- the weather is in my favor here, -- if it was as hot here as it seems to be most of the time in Philadelphia, it would go hard, with me -- --They are as kind & good as can be, both Dr and Mrs Bucke -- then I have a horse & little basket-wagon appropriated to me, to go out by myself, or be driven out just whenever I like -- but to be deprest & sick prevents any thing being enjoyed -, But enough of this - - I have no doubt it will pass over, as it has times before -- The country here is beautiful with hay & wheat -- -- They are just now in the height of harvest for both, & I watch them fromNew York Jul 15 800 AM 80 Transit My windows -- We have rain every third or fourth day (just now a little too much) -- Dr Bucke has a big house & a great many visitors -- from two or three to five or six here nearly all the time -- two fine young ladies staying all the time with Mrs B, & a governess for his younger children -- I tell you if I felt well I should have great times -- even as it is we have some jovial hours -- -- last evening nothing would do but I had to come in the parlor & sing a couple of verses of "Black Eyed Susan" -- If I get all right the plan is to go down the Lakes [*the three of us, Doctor & another man & myself*], and all down the St Laurence (the "Thousand Islands" &c) and so on far north to a great river, the Saguenay I have always wanted to see -- will take three weeks & &c to Quebec-- -- but I will have to feel very different from what I do now -- Well I must close -- How are you all? Is George well this summer? Is Harry’s well & in the store? This is about the eighth or ninth document I have send to you from Canada- counting papers, letters, postal cards, &c. (One to Harry from Lake Huron) & I haven’t had a single breath of reply from any of you -- Susan I enclose you an envelope -- Love to all -- Walt Whitman I shall get well no doubt & be coming back like a bad penny toward the end of the summer.CANADA POST CARD THE ADDRESS ONLY TO BE WRITTEN ON THIS SIDE. To George and Susan M Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey U S A[*17*] London Ontario Canada June 10 [*(1880)*] I have now been a week in Canada enjoying every thing quietly but finely - I live much outdoors - go riding, or some short jaunt or around the farm, most every day - I have a good room - good table [?] plenty of young folks (young ladies) & a [sm?] army of fine children - a large quiet library - but the best thing is my hostess, one of those blessed sisterly women I have had the good luck to meet in life's grim journey & have for a friend, more than once - Canada is a far finer country than I supposed - very fair land, the people nicely off - I see none very poor - I remain well for now - am to go to Lake Huron next week for a few days, to return here of course - Harry dear boy how are you? & Mont and Van and Debby - Love to all - WWMrs Stafford Jan '77 KIRKWOOD FEB 2 N. J. Mr. Walter. Whitman No. 929 North 22nd, St. Philadelphia,CANADA. P4 FEB 2 8PM [?][*from Mrs. Stafford Jan 26 '78*] KIRKWOOD JAN 20 N.J Walt Whitman 431 Stevens St Camden NJCAMDEN 6PM N.J.from Mrs Stafford Dec 23 '77 brought up by Herbert arrived next day Walt Whitman 431 Stevens St Camden NJ[*4.*] Camden Sunday afternoon Jan 2 [*(1881)*] Dear friend Susan & Dear friends all We are having an awful spell of weather up here, snow, storms & bitter cold, ever since Christmas, - about the wintriest week I remember take it all through, - thermometer down below zero, night & day - But I suppose you know all about it & have had the same - I still keep well & in good trim, thank the Lord - eat my Christmas dinner & spent the evening at the Baptist minister's here, Mr Lung, a grand wife, & a big family all home to dinner seven children two grown - had a good time - havn't been out any where else particular for a month - in fact the storms & snow & bad walking keep me weatherbound - - rec'd two more letters form Herbert - - he has sent you by mail two big books, the Life of Blake, he sent them to me, to take to you - they are quite valuable & curious books - Ithink the first time George or Van or Mont comes up they had better stop here & get them - Herbert also sent me a p.o. order for a small sum, asking me to get something for your children for Christmas - I have not yet cashed it at the p.o. - - Mr. G appears to be about well again - It is now 12 1/2 Sunday - it is moderated, & the sum has come out - my sister has just come home from church - All goes on about as usual here - New year's day was rather flat, all around, so bleak & cold & deep snow - - Still the women are out in their finery, plenty of them - I believe some would parade out in their new bonnets & pretties if it froze their noses off - George, dear friend, how are you getting along this winter? - did you get the new cider - & is any of it left? - I suppose Mont and Van are stout & jolly as ever - have you had any sleigh riding' boys? - Susan I sent you a little book & one to Kate - did they come? - I want to see you all but I don't know when I shall come down. Love to you & George - WWWALT WHITMAN AUTOGRAPH LETTERS 1881 January 16 WHITMAN, WALT to George and Susan Stafford Autograph Letter, signed. CWW, VOL. III, NO. 998 FEINBERG COLLECTION OF WALT WHITMAN431 Stevens Street Camden Sunday afternoon Jan:16 My Dear friends You haven't sent for the two big books Herbert sent you. So as I have been snowed in a good deal lately, I have opened them & read quite a good deal in them - they are green books, the very finest of printing & paper & some odd pictures - I got a postal from Mrs Gilchrist yesterday - she is improving - the rest all well- -We have had a rough hard winter all around - keeps me in mostly, but I make a dash out now & then - I still keep pretty well this winter - if it hadn't been so cold I should have been down to see you - Ed how do you like being home again? But I think you are contented most any where - how is the mag? I was out once or twice sleighing - my brother took me - his mare Nelly is in fine condition - pretty lively -makes things fly sometimes I have been in all day ready & writing - I have put up two sets of my books, to send off this evenings mail to purchasers - a very quiet day, but I have enjoyed it - -outside it is cold and half cloudy, not an inviting day out - - Well Mont have you found any chance yet at telegraphing? I think the best thing a fellow can do their weather is to stay home & keep warm -but when the spring opens then make a dash somewhere - Vasa I sup- pose will make a farmer - well if he is satisfied it is about as good as anything. I don't know but better There comes my call to dinner & I shall go for it without delay & finish my helter skelter letter afterwards Dinner all aright backed beef pie - I am now going out to see one of the ferry men a friend very sick - I have provided a bottle of brandy to take him as I understand the Doctors orders milk punch - there is a good deal of sickness around her much dif there - well I must stop - good bye & God bless you friends Susan, George, & Harry Dear - WWCamden Friday afternoon May 6 (1881) My Dear friend I am sorry to hear of your feeling so unwell, & have thought about it probably more than you think -- bad enough any how to feel sick or half sick, & specially so with one that has so much depending upon her, (& a pretty ambitious spirit too) -- I thought I would write you a few lines, & may be it might cheer you a little -- Things go on quite the same with me -- a little more quiet than usual since I got back from Boston ( I suppose you got the letter & papers I sent you while I was there)-- I had a lively time in Boston - Susan I wish you could have been there the evening of my lecture -- it was [very] such a collection of people as would have suited you, & been a study -- different from any I ever saw in my life before -- fully, one half were women -- something different in all of them from the usual crowd -- about 300 (I will tell you more when I see you) --As I write this part of my letter, just come up from dinner -- we had a great fat sweet baked shad, just right -- -- what is better once in a while for dinner than good fresh fish, & potatoes? -- (I remember you too are fond of fish sometimes) -- -- shad are unusually good & plenty now -- I wish I could send you & George down a couple of big fresh ones, such as I see them bringing in every haul from the river -- -- A middling fair rain here to-day & last night -- it is raining as I write -- well I am glad of it, for it will do a power of good -- our street begins to look first rate , with the long rows of trees, five squares of them now, all out in leaf -- strawberries are already huckstered about the street -- I suppose bro't from the south -- --Rec'd a long good letter from Mrs. Gilchrist -- I think Beatrice must be regularly established as a woman physician in Edinburgh -- -- Mrs. G. is going on there to visit her, & for a change, as she is not yet real well -- Herbert is painting away & I guess having a good time, with lots of company & fun &c. -- I was out a few evenings ago to spend an hour or two in north Camden with some friends, a Quaker family, three sisters quite elderly, on (the oldest) a widow with a grown up son & daughter -- they sent for me to come to tea -- the five live together -- they are neither poor nor rich -- keep no servant -- -- but O such quiet, happy kind, affectionate ways -- cheerful too, & plenty of good things -- -- but the manners "the peace of heaven" -- I enjoyed myself first rate just being with them -- (besides the good things) --Susan what do you hear about old Mrs. Morgan? I suppose she is needy enough, poor old woman, & if you have a chance I should like you to send her things to the amount of two dollars a month as I told you, & I will pay for them -- -- (if you cant go yoursellf, may-be you can send by Debby or Patience) Evening 1/2 past 8 -- Well I will finish my letter & put it in the box -- maybe you will get it to read Sunday -- This afternoon 4 to 6 1/2 I took one of my usual jaunts over in the busiest parts of Philadelphia -- Market and Chestnut Streets -- crowded with myriads of people & vehicles, all seemed to be going as if the devil was after them -- the crowds & rush & excitement seemed to be much greater even than usual -- well I took some three hours of it -- then slowly across the river & home -- had my supper, & here I am in perfect quiet up in my room, finishing my letter -- --Susan my dear friend I hope this] will find you all right & well again -- -- but if still unwell, try to keep a good heart -- Love to all -- Walt Whitman US POSTAL CARD. NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS CAN BE PLACED ON THIS SIDE. CAMDEN MAR 22 12 M N. J. George and Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden March 22 1882 Dear friend I shall come down Friday afternoon in the 4 1/2 train to Kirkwood for three or four days visit WW Camden Sunday afternoon Jan: 30 [*1881*] My dear friend, I rec'd your good letter some days since, & would like indeed to be down with you & George & all -- but the bitter cold continues so I think I'd better stay close here for the present -- but it won't be long before I shall be with you all -- I suppose you & the rest are reading Herbert's books from time to time -- though they are very queer in the story of Blake's life and works there is a deal that is interesting & good to chew on -- then they are such beautiful specimens of paper & printing , it is a pleasure to read themI had a nice visit from Harry and Mont -- there is nothing new or interesting to write you -- it is now 1/2 past 2 after dinner, & I have been writing & fixing up a composition alone in my room, since breakfast -- it is a cloudy, cold raw day here, rather lonesome but still I make out -- (but I could make out better if I have the rest of the day on a visit to Glendale & a good strong cup of tea with you & Ruth, to cheer me up) -- I am still feeling pretty well so far this winter, bless the Lord -- -- I send Debbie a book "The Old Curiosity Shop" -- love to her and Joe -- have you had any more hog-killings -- which is the most fun? them or the Glendale Church? W W Camden Feb: 6 [*1881*] 8 pm Dear friend I have had a sick week -- two days pretty bad -- last Sunday night had a strange chill -- rattled me, for two hours lively -- one thinks my system [has] got all chilled through -- havnt been out for a week till this evening, went to the post office -- am feeling better to-day, but weak --How are you all? Was glad to have a call from Debbie & your neice Lizzie -- So Lizzie Hider and Wes are to be married soon -- well if it is to come off at all the sooner the better & I hope it will turn out a happy marriage, -- should say there was the best reason to expect it to for both have estimable qualities & I dont see how a woman can help loving the good man she lives with as a wife -- Best love to Harry I got his good letter & will answer it soon -- love to George & all W W Send me a chicken when you have a chanceCamden Feb: 22 [*1881*] Evening My dear friend I still keep around & have been over to Philadelphia this afternoon for three hours, the day has been so fine & bright, (but I am weak & half sick yet) -- over in Phila, I ride in the new Market St. coaches, the Herdics (they start from the ferry door & I buy 25 tickets for a dollar) -- I was on Arch and Chestnut streets -- such crowds -- oceans of women, drest to kill -- I like to walk along & look in the windows, every kind ofarticle you can think of, & many you never thought of -- always something new & interesting -- then I have a friend cor: 7th & Chestnut, Col. Forney's office, a nice big old fashioned room -- he keeps a great ratan easy chair for me, by a bay-window & I always stop there to rest & read the news -- How are you all getting along? -- We are at the beginning of another spring, & I want to come down soon -- The chicken was first rate -- it made me several good meals -- (I expected to pay for it & expect to yet) -- the strawberries good -- they tasted like Glendale -- as I close it is 9 oclock & a lot of Darkies are going along singing and old southern slave hymn W W[*19*] Camden -- Sunday night March 6 [*1881*] Dear friend The days go along with me pretty much after the old sort, though I dont get my strength yet, nor feelas well as I did in the fall & early winter -- -- I busy myself writing some & reading a little -- am doing quite well with my books, & have been all winter -- when the weather permits I try to get out, but my strength soon fails me -- has been so now five or six weeks & gets no better, but I am in hopes things will take a turn --Has been a pleasant Sunday here, coolish but sunny & calm -- O how I wished I could put in the whole day down at G -- but I think of coming down next Friday to stay two or three days at any rate -- a friend of mine here about my age, died suddenly yesterday, Judge Woodhall -- I thought him the best man in Camden-- -- do you know Mrs. Gilchrist has been very, sick indeed, five or six month? & is not over it yet -- I got a long letter from her last week -- -- Susan I am afraid this is not a very lively letter -- I have just had my supper, & feel as[*2 20*] well as usual, & no trouble particular to worry me, but I am sitting here up in my room alone, & have been all day, & feel kind of dull & companionless -- -- Susan I suppose you got the letter I sent you about twelve days ago -- I also sent one to Harry about a week ago which he has not yet acknowledged -- Well it is 1/2 past 8 & the moon is shining & I will go out & put this miserable letter in the box, & then take a few minutes walk around, & see if it makes me feel any livelier -- How is George getting along? -- Harry told me hewas having a pretty good winter -- has he drunk up the little bottle of whiskey? Well there wasn't more than two or three good drinks any how -- I shall be down next Friday in the 4 1/2 afternoon train to Kirkwood, if it don't storm pretty bad. Walt WhitmanUS POSTAL CARD WRITE THE ADDRESS ON THIS SIDE- THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER CAMDEN MAR 31 N.J. Mrs. Susan M Stafford (Glendale) Kirkwood Camden County New JerseyCamden March 31 Shall come down Saturday afternoon in the 4 o'clock train to Kirkwood W.W. Camden Sunday Ev'ng May 14 '82 Dear friend Yours of 12th rec'd & much welcomed -- As I write the day is just closing & dark & the rain has been falling heavy & steady for hours -- makes an undertone & music for me on the tin rood overhead -- I have been moderately busy for some time past & to day writing -- pieces I get fair pay for from the magazines -- the more necessary now as quite a set-back & very bad piece of luck has happened to me in my new Boston book -- but it would be quite a complicated story, & I will tell you the particulars when I come down -- -- Susan I am sorry to hear of Howard Browning's death -- so young, & with life & pleasure all before him as it would seem -- such things bring up thoughts in one's mind that no words or writing can describe -- I wish Jo and Debby to see this letter -- & I sent them my love -- -- I suppose Harry is not home to-day it is so stormy -- I have sent him bundles of papers -- -- They say the old C&A road have bought the Narrow Gauge -- will that affect Harry's position any? -- I can fancy, you all there in the house to-day, if it rains there any thing like it does here -- -- George I dare say has gone up in his room & is taking a good blessed sleep -- I dont know -- what Edwould be doing, but I can fancy Mont reading some of Mrs Holmes's books & perhaps Ruthey setting the table or frying something for supper -- at any rate I hope you are all having a good time -- & if I had the magic carpet of the Arabian Nights, I should come down & join your circle for a couple of hours, & then whisk myself back here again by nine o'clock, in time to finish the piece I have under way—Tell Mrs Rogers I send my best respects—I remember with pleasure the nice visit & dinner in Linden Street—I have not forgotten Jane either— Susan you speak of my not being well—somehow I seemed to have a real bad time, a mixture of troubles, neuralgia among the rest, for a month past, —but I think I have got over the worst for the present, & for the last three or four days I feel about as usual—I went over a few days ago to a (Quaker) school in Philadelphia, where they teach well-grown children, not lessons by rote, but all sorts of practical things, such as would be appropriate and interesting to the young, but leading the way to occupations, for both sexes, drawing, painting, [making thr] the use of carpenters' tools, cooking, sewing, cutting out clothes, &c. It was conducted by a gentleman and his neice, free—I tell you it opened my eyes to many new things—makes our ordinary schools ridiculous—Well, Susan, dear friend, I have filled out the sheet with writing, such as it is— I believe the first letter I have sent you now for a long time —God bless you & all— Walt WhitmanNUNEATON E AU 21 82 Mrs. George Stafford Glendale (Kirkwood Post Office) New Jersey U States America.C NEW YORK PAID Sep C 1 ALL E2 LIVERPOOL AU 22 82 Camden Sunday Sept: 24 '82 Dear friend Your letter of over a week ago rec'd—& I should have answer'd before, but I expected to come down myself, or send word—but one thing or another delays the publication of my new book, & I am waiting for that—it is all printed and ready, & will be out early this coming week—I will bring you one when I come down—there is lots in about the pond & the old lane &c. and my times there five or six years ago—(but there are ever so many subjects in it)— —I went round yesterday in the rain to make a short visit to Mrs Rogers—She is pretty well, considering—complains of being weak in the limbs & flush'd with the heat, but sat in the parlor & talked very cheerful & friendly, some time—said she hoped you would come up very soon—I ask'd if she didnt intend going down to your house soon— she said no, she expected to go on east (Mass:) to see her daughter—she said Amos was to be home that Saturday evening, to stay over Sunday—ask'd me to come around & get acquainted with him— So I had a very pleasant little visit— Every thing there look'd about the same, nice & comfortable —Jane came to the door— We have had nothing but rain, rain, here, the last three or four days—seems to pour down all day long—it is well I didn't come down early in the week as I had intended but now as I write (Sunday, late forenoon) it is very pleasant sunshiny again—as I sit here the bells are ringing for church, off aways—sounds very good—every thing quite delightful after the long dark equinoctial storm—but I just wish I was down there this minute—a day there in the woods— —Where my books are now publish'd is 23 South 9th Street, Philadelphia (not far from Leary's book store)—and they have fixed me up a big table and arm chair, by a window up stairs, all to myself—& there I go for an hour or two or three, every day if I like—the whole building is stuff'd with books, some old, some very costly, some very rare—all the histories, dictionaries &c. you can think of, & everything else— —Nothing very new with me—I still keep well—eat my rations every time— I havn't seen or heard any thing of Harry or any of you for a long time—except I saw Joe at the ferry over a week ago—I want to come down Friday next, to Kirkwood, in the usual 4 o'clock train—shall be down Friday—Love to you and George, Ruthey & all—Walt Whitman Postal Card. Camden APR 13 7AM N.J. NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS CAN BE PLACED ON THIS SIDE. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood Glendale New JerseyCamden April 12 1883 I will come down Saturday afternoon in the 4 o'clock train to Kirkwood & stay over till Sunday afternoon WWPHILADELPHIA AUG 6 8 P.M. PA. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood Glendale New Jersey Germantown Afternoon Aug: 6 [*1883*] Dear friend, Sitting here [alone] in the library, alone in a great big house, I thought I would write you a few lines to pass for a letter,—though the Lord only knows what I shall write about, for I have no news to tell, & nothing special to say— —I came out here on a visit to an old friend a few days ago, & shall stay here perhaps the ensuing week—The family, (& a fine one they are) are at Newport for the summer— my friend, the father, goes to his business in Philadelphia absent all day, & I am left here master of a large house garden, library &c. with servants, horses, —a good dinner at 1 o'clock every day —have to eat it all by myself, but I enjoy it —It is a Quaker family I am very much attached to—(I believe I have mentioned them to you before)—all kind & good—but the ones that seem most to me are the eldest daughter Mary (ab't 21) the brightest happiest sunniest cutest young woman you ever saw, & probably you would say upon knowing her, a new & different combination of character from any you ever saw—& one I am sure you would like—And then the father himself, my friend—he is in business in Phila:—he has been a great traveler in Europe, & something of a preacher—he is a good talker—& very kind—we always have a good long ride, from 5 to 7½ afternoons—which I enjoy very much—& then return to supper—& a couple of hours talking, reading &c. Then there is all now at Newport as I said another daughter & a son, a young man—all dear friends of mine—I have been here quite a good deal the last year & a half, when they were all home— but now no one but the father & myself here— I wish you could have two or three good drives with me about here—we have a fast, strong, gentle young sorrel mare—first rate—the roads & views are the finest you ever saw—& now they show at their best—Yesterday (Sunday) afternoon & evening seem'd to me one of the most perfect for weather &c I ever knew—we drove out to a hill about an hour from here & had a view over twenty miles towards Bethlehem, —fields & farms & rolling country—some woods—the richest tract in Pennsylvania. It was an hour before sundown. It was like Paradise. (It will have a good effect upon me the rest of the summer.)Mont was in to see me ab't a week ago—By his acc't you must have a house full. I hope you keep up health & spirits— Love to Ruth—Ed also—(I havn't forgot those rides evenings off among the pea-pickers)— Respects to Messrs. Wyld and Edwards —Nothing specially new with me— I am only middling well—seem to be getting clumsier than ever, more loguey—rheumatic & other ailments—My loss (money, dues, &c) I alluded to, from the letter rec'd when I was down there, is worse than I expected—(I [expected] knew all the spring & early summer there would be something, for I was feeling too well & prosperous & sassy)— —If I could only feel well & sleep well, though (which I do not) I should not care a straw for pecuniary botherations & losses. What a beautiful ten days we have had past! I hope Ed's things are all turning out well. So good bye for this time, dear friend W W Ruth fatten up some o' them chickens & have 'em ready for early fallCAMDEN DEC 1 12AM N.J. George and Susan M Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey WALT WHITMAN Camden New Jersey London Ont Canada, Nov 28–83 My Dear Old Friend: I arrived here safely Saturday evening 6th. Have had quite a good time so far. Came direct to the asylum. Went on duty as turnkey Monday morning but will not remain here over six weeks or two months as the occupation is not pleasant. Cannot sleep at night there are so many unearthly noises and besides I want to get a position where I can make better wages. And as you know I am of a nervous temperament and the least scene shocks me. I want to go to Detroit Mich, after I leave here; from there to Chicago, and want you to give me a letter to any business man you know there. Your recommendation has been the means of making me some good friends and I am shure with your letter, I can get something good in either of the cities. If you are not personally acquainted there give me letter to some of the newspaper men. It will carry lots of weight you know how I have started. want to make a lot some where. If I could only get in a telegraph office I would be one of the happiest fellows you ever saw. Don't have any privilege here, not even time to write. I am up in my little room writing [*this while my patience are restlessly pacing up and down the hall - Have 42 men in my charge. Will have to close for the present so good-bye. Please don't forget that your boy *] [*is away among strangers and a good long letter from his dear friend will do him good.Ever your Harry*] [*P.S. Don't forget to write soon and send the letters*] Camden Dec: 1st Noon I suppose Harry has written to you -- still I will send you this, for good measure -- What H speaks of the "unearthly noises" &c. he will get used to in two or three days -- it is like living near a railroad -- -- I am well as usual -- W W London Ont Canada Dec 17th 83 My Dear Old Friend: Your postals came "OK" and found me pretty well. Was glad to hear from you, even though it was through a postal: as you know, I am down on that kind of business and never pay any attention to them only from you, but it pleases me now to even get that much from an old friend. As I have told you the position I now have is not a desirable one but better than nothing. Have only saw Dr. Bucke once since he came home, that is privately, and that was the day after he arrived. He then said he would by and get something better for me. Will remain here until we find the prospects and if nothing better promises will go to Detroit and from there to Chicago. I am determined to make a hit somewhere and dont forget it. I havent had a blue spell yet and think I can get along without any. By the time I receive this months pay I will be in easy circum, financially and will decide on a turn and let you know. I think I can manage to get pretty well over the N.Y. and Canada by working here and there. I love to travel and see. We have a deep snow here, fell a week ago. Haven't heard from home directly but once since my arrival. With lots of love and a good old time kiss I am ever your boy Harry Write me a letter soon. Camden Dec 21 Dear friends Although I suppose you hear from Harry I will send you this letter rec'd by me last evn'g as it may interest you— I am about as usual. Susan I rec'd your letter & was glad to get it. I am writing a little. The wintry weather & bad traveling keep me in more than I like— Merry Christmas to you & George & all— W W Susan I enclose an envelope with the right direction so you can write to Harry London Feb 10—84 Dr Old Friend: Am quite well with the exception of the abcess on my neck, it has come again. Dr. B— lanced it few days ago but it dont appear to get much better. Recieved the papers and am glad to get them for it is the only way I can get posted. Most of my friends appear to have forgotten me or think me of too little importance to drop a line. Will leave here the first of next month and start for Detroit where I will put in a month or so if I can find bread and butter. Please send me a letter of introduction to someone there if you know any body it will make it much better for me and I will not feel entirely alone. I think perhaps Dr. B can give me a letter to some of his friends there as he is going to give a lecture there Wednesday evening. Don't get the blues worth a dam and dont expect to. Will close for the present. With lots of love, I remain as Ever your true and devoted son HarryCamden Feb. 14 pm Dear Friends I send the written letter just rec'd from Harry -- I am about as usual, & nothing new in my affairs. Susan this will be a mean short letter this time -- better luck next time -- It is heavy and bad outside the wind blowing a gale -- (I should like to put on my overshoes & old overcoat & go off in the woods for an hour or two) -- -- I havn't heard from Deb -- I hope she is all right -- Well, bad as the weather is, I must up & go out & across the river or I shall have the horrors. The Lord A'mighty Cress you all -- good bye. WW 328 Mickle Street Camden Monday 3 pm Nov 10 [*1884*] Thanks my dear friend for the nice chicken — I have just had a part of it for my dinner — & the honey in the comb just like that is something I like — I had a very pleasant visit out in Germantown — I went partly at the request of a fine jolly young Englishman who is visiting there for a few days, & told me much about my friends in England (of whom I find I have far more than I knew of) — I am about as usual — feel considerably better, more able to get around since the cool weather has set in - had rather a bad summer - my walking power gives out more this year & I am afraid is destined to be worse instead of better - otherwise I am about the same - appetite good - spirits ditto I am sorry I wasn't in when you stopped this forenoon - have been hoping you would stop this afternoon - Does George keep well this fall? Ruth how do you like married life? I rec'd the cake - very nice Well Ed, how are you about Cleveland? I am just as well satisfied - I have rec'd a long letter from Herbert - nothing very new. The Lord bless you & be with you all - Walt WhitmanUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD CAMDEN DEC 15 5 PM 1885 N.J. Nothing but the address to be on this side. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey328 Mickle Street Camden Dec 15 - Noon - I got a letter from Herbert, this morning - death & burial of Mrs. G. - gloomy, gloomy news. No doubt you will receive or have rec'd a letter from H. but I tho't I w'd write, I am ab't as usual - the rainy ride Sunday, has not done me any harm. Harry was here with me yesterday. Looks & feels & is quite well - Came up on a little business & went back to Marlton on the 5 o'clock train - Bright & sunny here after a long dark spell - hope George is better W.W.328 Mickle street Camden Wednesday Even'g Jan. 6 '86 My dear friend I am sitting here in my little front room down stairs writing this — a good fire in the stove — It is cold & cloudy outside, & the day is drawing to a close — Two visitors from Phila: have been to see me — two youngish middle-aged ladies, one an artist & the other I knew her years ago in Washington — Marie Le Baron then a writer—the latter married to her second husband, (the first one dead) — now Mrs: Urie, a little bit of a body, but a great talker full of life & good sense & good nature (like the best goods done up in small parcels) — I have not been out all day — wish I could just come in & spend the evening & take supper with you all. — If it is any thing like fair weather next Sunday, shall be down ab't the usual time — but if it is stormy or very cold, don't look for me — Ed, I gave your gloves to Billy, ten days ago to take to you, so I suppose you have them long before this — Went to dinner New Years to Dr. Shivers, — had a first rate time — & Sunday to Col & Mrs. Scovel's also to dinner - Have not heard any thing further from Herbert - Often think of Mrs. Gilchrist - (I have a good photo of her) - Do you remember that day - last of May '77 I think - she & her two daughters came down to see us & me down at the pond, under the old oak tree? - At that old pond & the banks, & the old lane - I shall never forget them - Shall never forget you & George, & all of you, either - Love to you all, & God bless you- Walt Whitman Shall be down Sunday if the weather is tolerable - if not not -CAMDEN [?] 7 AM N.J. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey Walt Whitman Camden New JerseyMrs: Susan Stafford Kirkwood Glendale New Jersey WALT WHITMAN Camden New Jersey JAN 9 8 pm [1888?] NJ Saturday afternoon Jan. 9. As I shall not get down to Glendale to-morrow I will write a few lines & send Edward Carpenter's letter rec'd this morning, which may interest you - - As I look out the ground is all cover'd with snow a foot deep, & the wind blowing quite a gale, - & freezing cold - - But I have a good fire - - Mrs. Davis has gone out to market, & shopping - so I am alone in the house - One of my Quaker girls Alys Smith from Germantown has been over to see me to-day - I told her I considered it indeed a compliment to pay a visit to a fellow such weather - she said she liked the snow & breeze - liked to whack around in it -Sunday Jan 10 - noon - Cold, cold, & snow everywhere outside - bad luck all around - the fire goes out, & clock stops & the water pipe bursts in the bath room - but the sun shines, the bird sings away, & Mrs. Davis is in jovial humor - - Susan I wish I had something interesting to write you - but I havn't - the Lord be with you all - W.W.UNITED STATES POSTAL CARD Nothing but the address to be on this side. PHILADELPHIA FEB 3 1886 4PM TRANSIT Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyElkton Maryland Feb 3 '86 I came down here yesterday to deliver a lecture, which came off all right, last 'evening' - I am going back to day. Shall come down the first Sunday the weather + travelling are good. WW328 Mickle St. Camden Wednesday pm Feb 24 My dear friend - thanks for your good letter, which the carrier bro't this morning, & I was glad to get word from you all, An artist from New York, from the Century Magazine, has been here the last three forenoons, painting a big portrait of me - he has finished all he wants here, & has just boxed it up & taken, it off to NY by express - he is a first rate young fellow, a good talker, & has already travelled a good deal over the world - & he made it all very interesting, tell'g me this that, & the other. -I am bad enough - but I wonder I a'nt worse than I am - yes, if the weather & roads are any thing like fair I want to come down next Sunday & shall come - my nag is about thesame as ever - (lame in hind foot ab't a week ago) - I keep him here in the stable yet - the weather has been pleasanter of late & I get out a little occasionally to the cars or down to the ferry, but I am getting more & more clumsy & stupid. I got a letter from Herbert G. ab't three weeks ago - nothing new of any importance, - they are getting up a little book, Life and Letters of Mrs. G. - I suppose you rec'd Edward Carpenter's letter to me which I enclosed to you some time ago - Every thing goes on as well as could be expected with my affairs &c. We get along the same as ever here, & very comfortable considering, I wish when you come up you would stop here - & tell George so too - - I wonder when he comes up & is going around Camden he don't stop here -Tell Ed too -Mrs. Davis is an old fashion'd Jersey woman, & has been to sea - & as to me you know what I am- -Well I am call'd to dinner - the parrot is yelling away as I close - Love to you & George - & all - WWUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD Nothing but the address to be on this side. CAMDEN JUN 21 12PM 1886 N.J. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden - June 21 - noon All ab't the same with me - the mare was quite lame, sprain of right hind foot was the reason I didn't come down yesterday - I miss'd the jaunt & was grum & dull all day - I got a letter from Dr. B this morning - he had spent a day & took dinner with Herbert Gilchrist & Edward Carpenter - all well - - Delightful weather here as I write by the open window, - but I am disabled worse than ever & can't get out can hardly get across the room. - Tell George if he wishes & I will get a 7 hat in place of that 6 7/8. WW[CA??] JA 18 13 188 N. J. Mrs: Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey[*ans'd*] Jan; 6th 1887. Friday. 12 Well Road Hampstead London England, My dear Walt: I send you three pounds £3. the sum being Miss R.E. Powell's (Piccard's Rough, St Catherine's Guildford) annual subscription to the Free-Will-offering—sent to Mr. Rossetti in form of a cheque, but he sent it on to me to post to you; I should be very glad to see these annual subscriptions increase. I wonder who wrote the long articles about you in the Pall Mall Gazette? I have had a good amicable letter from Dr. Bucke—what a thoroughly good-natured chap he is! It is foggy with us; too foggy to paint! though I and Grace had a little skating on the 'Club Pond' this morning. I am getting ready my pictures (2) for the spring Exhibition. My Book is getting on - though not quite through the press: In one of the last chapters, I added, at the last minute, so to speak, some gossips [that you and ] or "cracks", as the Scotch say, that I exchanged with you down at the Creek under the Walnut tree: when you are writing again, tell me how Mrs. Stafford is will you Walt? With best love to the dear old fellow, from Herbert H. Gilchrist.Camden Jan 18 noon Dear friend I will send Herbert's letter, just rec'd this morning & add a word myself, tho' I have nothing new to say particular - I am comfortable & ab't the same generally in health, (but slowly going down hill I suppose) Ed was here an hour or so last morning & we were glad to have him Wish you would come & spend the day here - wish George would come & you & he have dinner here with us - Can't we fix a day soon? Mrs Davis would be glad, too - as I write the little bird is singing gayly in his cage - first note cheer & company for me, for I am here mostly alone - sun shining today here, but cold enough outside frozen hard - "O why hast there bleach'd those locks, old Time yet left my heart so young"? [gay] Love to you & George, Harry & all - Walt WhitmanCAMDEN MAR 3 PM [?] N. J. Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey WALT WHITMAN, CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY.Camden March 2- noon Dear friend The old story - nothing very new or different with me - still jog along here as before - have been half sick a great part of this winter - yet every thing goes on comfortably with me - I am sitting here by the window down stairs, in my big chair writing this- (the sun shining outside, & my little canary singing furiously in his cage in the corner)- I have occasional visitors- Mr Duckett is here yet- I don’t get out much, the roads are so bad. Come in & see us & spend the day. George stop when you come up. Susan I enclose a letter [who he] and this son of his reads Leaves of Grass silently unobserved by the seat of his orthodox family. I posted a copy of my book to you about a week ago. I hope that you will read it and tell me how you like. Andrew Lang wrote a lead in the Daily News about it and from things have been said [about it] in the London, and Scotch Hugo particularly As yet, I have not liken my passage, but I hope to come early in May, and to spend a nice slice of my time as near you in Camden. I consider that your poems have gained ground here perceptibly within the East 2 years. Leonard Brown sent to his love & with love from Herbert H. Gilchrist Ct Leonard M. Brown 31st March 1887 My dear Walt, As you see by my address I am staying with a great friend of yours. You may see him this summer for he is going to America at the end of April, going out as a schoolmaster to settle somewhere up the Hudson. He is an uncommonly good fellow, quiet - earnest serious soul and very practical, full of solid worth whose knowledge and attaiments are sure to be valued in America. His father is a clergymanCamden April 12 '87 Dear friend, I send you Herbert's last letter - he expects to come over in May - He has sent me his book ab't Mrs. G - It is very interesting - Shall I bring or send it down for you to read, or have you one? - Harry left here ab't an hour ago - he went up to the Hospital today & the throat was operated on again but he feels pretty well & in good spirits - I am sorry to hear George and Ed are not well - I hope they will be over the worst of it, & indeed all right by this time - I am going to New York tomorrow evn'g to return Friday If I live through it all May drive down next Sunday if it is pleasant Walt WhitmanCAMDEN MAY 3 P 8 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey Walt Whitman, Camden, New JerseyUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE CAMDEN, N.J. MAY 16 8 PM 87 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden Monday Evn'g May 16 - Nothing very new with me - I am not very well - but around as usual - go out driving a little most every day - Herbert will soon be here, In his last letter he said he sh'd start soon - Have not seen Harry for over a week - Come up & see us WWUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE CAMDEN, N.J. JUN 1 130. PM 87 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden June 1 noon No Herbert yet but he is in NY City & I look for him every hour - Nothing new with me - Rainy & mild here this forenoon - How are you getting along? I am not very well - Kind o' half & half - I shall be driving down (for two or three hours) soon as the roads are good - Walt WhitmanUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE CAMDEN JUN 430 PM 87 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden June 3 3 1/2 pm Herbert has arrived & I think of driving down with him either tomorrow (Saturday) or on Sunday. He is here & is just going around to a boarding house on 4th St. to see if he can get quarters. I am not well but nothing of importance - Love to you & George & Ed & all WWUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD. ONE CENT NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE. CAMDEN, N.J. AUG 1 8 PM 87 Mrs: Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden Monday Evn'g Aug 1 We have had three hot days right in a string but I am getting along with it all & there is a great let up evenings & nights - Nobody here today - I think of you & George & all - H yesterday told me he was much better - good - I will be down one of these days Walt WhitmanMrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey Walt Whitman, Camden, New JerseyUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE [CAMDEN]. N.J. MAR 8 PM 87 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden Thursday Evn'g A snow storm here as I write I am not over my bad spell yet, but a little better perhaps Harry is getting along very well way up & had it dress'd & went home to Marlton in the 3 train He is a little thin but looks well & I guess will be better than ever when it is all over. Love to you & George - Walt WhitmanUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE CAMDEN. N.J. MAR29 6 PM 87 Mrs. Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden March 24 Evn'g Harry was here with me today - He went to the hosp to have his throat drest & then to the RR Station to see J and D off He is doing very well indeed I shall not be down next Sunday but may the next April 10, If it pleasant - I am only middling Walt WhitmanUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD. ONE CENT NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE CAMDEN N J APR 18 8 P M 87 1 Mrs: Susan Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New JerseyCamden Tuesday Evn'g 19 Ap Harry has been here - is in good spirits & is surely getting along very well I am getting over my New York spree. Count on seeing you here tomorrow Walt WhitmanCamden Tuesday morning May 3 '87 Dear friend I got home all right Sunday afternoon - had a nice enjoyable ride - enjoyed my visit anyhow - yesterday I felt pretty dry, up in my room, & made a glass of drink, water, sugar & vinegar - from that bottle you gave me - such as I remembered my dear mothering making sixty years ago for my father of a hot day, when I was a little boy - & my drink went well too. Nothing new of any importance with me - Send you enclosed a letter just rec'd from Edward Carpenter - the dear good, young man - I have just written him a few lines - told him ab't Harry - Warm & sunny to day & I am sitting here with my window open - Mrs. D is off to Phil. & I shall be here alone all the forenoon. The bird is singing the cars are puffing & rattling, & the children of the neighborhood are all outdoors playing - so I have music enough - Best love to you all Walt WhitmanHotel St. Stephen, European Plan 46 to 52 East Eleventh Street, Between Broadway and University Place. W. D. Ryder, Proprietor. New York, May 27, 1887 Dear Walt; I arrived here from the "Germanie" a few hours ago: think that I shall stay here in the Germanie 4 or 5 days, not more, and then shall come on to Camden, where I want to lodge, if I can find lodging, simply, one decent clean bedroom will do for me. We had a equally disagreeable passage, notably so for the time of year With love to you form Herbert Haslo Renden GilchristAn old southern farmer, John Newton Johnson, has come up here from Alabama, 700 miles, to see me & is here now. He is the youngest, wildest, cutest mortal you ever saw. has a boy 12 y'rs also named Walt Whitman Camden Saturday 2pm May 28 '87 Dear friend, I send you the within just rec'd from Herbert G. I have an idea that he will be on here Monday or, Tuesday - If the spirit moves me & the weather is fine, I may come down Sunday, (before you get this) but possibly not - so I tho't I w'd send you the present screed - showery & almost cool here the last two days. As I write, the sun is out, & my bird singing - I have had my dinner, mutton, stew, onions & greens - I used the vinegar you gave me on 'em - good - the bottle is most all gone & shall bring it down to be fill'd up) I have not felt as well as usual the last three days. We had it hot & disagreeable enough here previous Susan come up here & stay awhile & visit us - George too - Mrs. D would be glad too - Lord be easy with you both Walt Whitman