Feinberg/Whitman Box 16 Folder 23 General Correspondence Stafford, Harry L. & Eva M. Mar. 1877 - Dec. 1890 & undated (DCN198) (DCN204) Includes verso letter from W.A.B. James, Mar. 27, 1877[Kirkwood?] N.J. [?January 18, 1878?] Dearest Walt: You know that I have written to you last, and I cannot tell how it is that you will not answer my letter, I did not mean to offend you, but if I did will you please foregive me, I am here with friend Shurp, and a lonely time I am haveing of it; I have not been away from here any time till Tuesday, since I was up to see you, then as father was so sick that he could not do anything I had to stay home and work for help him to day, the little Irishman next have now the [?] later. You remember them. They have got through with the deviding of the place: they have each take a part of it, and now it is settled. I hope that you will not keep this letter or tell anyone what it contains, I don't want our folkes to know that I have been so foolish as[k] to write to you when you will not answer. There is one thing that I have fore gotten, it is this Mont has been going to School at the Haddon Institute fore sometime [*he likes it bystrait. I will have to close my letter, as the paper is running on so adieu if I never hear from you I will think of you as an old friend that is dead and gon. Good bye Harry Stafford*]him; as he was going to kill hogs Wednesday; so I had to loose three days right off; I was to [camden?] yesterday [??] of [spupied?] [??] until [??]. Did you know that I cannot enjoy myselfe any more out there, if I go up in my room. I always come down feeling worse than I do when I go up, for the first thing I see is your picture, and when I come down in the sitting room there hangs the same, and when ever I do anything, or say anything the picture sees to me is always looking at me; so I find that I am better sattesfied when I am here than when I am home. When Herbret was down he said you was very well and happy. I talked to him and got out all I could, but that [??] but [??] and that [??] good and true friend to me, we have had many good times togeather, but none that hangs with me like those you and I have had, I received a letter from her last night, she said that she was well, and thought of coming over soon. I suppose you know that father has had an-other hemorrhage, but he is better now but he will never be able to do any more hard work. "Ned Rogers" is coming over to Lodi N. J. Dec. 29, 1890, My Dear Friend, Thinking of you and wondering how your Christmas was spent has tempted me to write a few lines to you to-night. We all spent that day very happily with Debbie. New Years day we expect them to spend with us. How nice it would be if you could join us. I don't know whether any of the folks at home will be able to come over or not. Van or Ed may come but Pop does not go out a great deal since his illness. He does not improve as rapidly as we wouldlike to have him. Mother was pretty well for her when we were home last. We are all well excepting the baby who has quite a severe cold at present. We do not expect to remain here another year. Harry has made application to the R. R. Co, but has not received much encouragement yet. I suppose you have heard of Mont's removal to Elwood N.J. He is quite well pleased with his new home. Please accept my thanks for the $2 which you sent the children. I hope this letter will find you in good health and spirit. With best wishes and love from us all I say good night. Your loving friend Eva M. StaffordKirkwood N.J. Novemb 13 [?] Dear friend Walt- Father has been very sick and [w] wishes to see you very badly he told me to stop and tell you Yesterday, but I did not find you in when I was there so I thought that I might write a few lines to you. the first thing that he asked of me when I got home was if I had seen you. We thought [it]he was dying Saturday night for a time I had to go after the doctor about 12 o'clock You must come down as soon as you get this letter. come down on the 4 train from Phila to [Morrison?] if you can any hour I will have to close for the present. Ever Yours Harry StaffordDear Friend - You know how I left you at the station today. I have thought of it and cannot get it off my mind, so I have come up to ask your forgiveness. I know how I have served you on many occasaions before. I know that it is my falt and not yours. Can you forgive me and take me back and love me the same I will try [if] by the grace of God to do better. I cannot give you up, and it makes me feel so bad to think how we have spent the last day or two; and all for my temper. I will have to controol it or it will send me to the States prison or some other bad place. Cant you take me back and love me the same. Your lovin but bad tempered Harry.[March 27th 1877] [Walt Whitman Esq.] [Will you favor me with your autograph for a collection I am forming of Poets. If you will also be kind enough to give some sentiment I will be obliged Hoping you will excuse the liberty I take I am.] [Yours truly,] [WAB James]Kirkwood N.J. November 26th 1877 Dear [ ?] I arrived [?] about [*] bad and I [?] but the horses did not [*] it much they wanted to troot all the way home, they felt good I guess, they have not been doing much for a couple of weeks or more, so they wanted to show off, you know how it is your self when you feel like licking me; but I held them down as I do you when you feel that way. I have a kind of a cold hand comeing up yesterday [?]good other ways, Father is a little better today than he was yesterday, but he looks very badly yet. [Debbie?] and Joe got home about 9. OK., they [??] to Philadelphia after they left [??] over to [??] Swartse's [??] from what I hear [??] and I went over to Glendale to church [of] Sunday ev., they had distracted meeting (as I call) it over there, [ ) ] there was I up seeking there souls salvation. It looks as if the rain was not over with yet, and the "rooster" is crowing , (that is a sure sign) they say. when I saw you on Federal St., yesterday, I thought you did not look very well, what was the matter with you? did you not feel as well as usual? [??] today and it seems lonly here without him here I don't have any one to talk too unless he is here, everything is as still as the dead of night, not a sound reaches my [??] ticking of the [??] to be almost [??] looking out of the [??] over here. I wander what his thoughts are about; there the click of the reigster has broken the stillness of the place, it seems like the presence of an old and loving friend, it is telling of the death of a man out in the st of Origan, I dont know to who: but here comes a fellow around now he sais put in a word for him he is blag uarding me, let him crack away, I will have to close. Ever your Harry Stafford write soon come down when ever you feel [?] good byeKirkwood N.J. October 4 1877 Dear Walt I don't think I will get to come to Camden this week but will be down on Saturday week if nothing happens more than I know of at present. Ed has gone to the City today and I have to tend for him and Ben wishes to go to the City on Saturday so I will have to be at the station and will not get off until the train will be gone so I will have to stay home, I want to come bad don't know how I will stay away I want to you to go when I come down some place where there is plenty of girls, I want to have some fun when I come down this time, all well at home father went away with Ed today Debbie is away to her Aunts Ever yours H StaffordCamden, New Jersey. April 21, 1877 Spring has at last commenced. The buds are out on the trees, the early flowers are in bloom, the days have grown to a much greater length, the fields of rye and wheat show their beautiful carpet of emerald, the farmers are busy planting their corn and potatoes and all nature claim its the plainest evidences that the delightful season for flowers, vegetables, fruits, grains and the foliage of summer is again commencing. Common as it is in the experience of every one of us, nothing is more wonderful than the annual return of spring. The dead ground awakening by some mysterious process to all the miracles of life is a spectacle, common as it is, not surpassed in all any infinite processes of the universe. Amid these wonders and glories, the perseverance and ambitions of mankind and the and the objects of their truth, pride and eagerness seem artificial and petty. There is a healthy and everlasting lesson in studying the spring. Sunday April 22, 1877 It is a beautiful morning and your are feeling well and hearty. My friend and I, he says have had a happy night and morning. I am bound for Kirkwood in the next train. Saturday Evening, end of the week. We have had a couple of rainy April. It is now a fine evening, partially clear, with, an occasional gust of wind at times shining out brightly. Mr. Whitman and I are sitting here in the room together; he is reading the New York Herald, and I am writing these lines for exercise for exercise. Today were claimed, a newspaper from my friend the George Waters of Elmira N.Y. It contained an article on W.W Portrait painted by Mr. Waters during our late visit to New York; also an interesting extract from the last letter written by our lamented hostess, the very day before her sudden death. Of course we were glad to hear from our friend, although the newspaper and letter bought up some very sad recollections. On Monday night I expected to commence work again at the printing of the West Jersey Press. Yours Harry Staffordfor the store is full of men blowing and looking at me and I have to get along the best way I can I will have to stop writing now so good bye for here is [?] and I will have to stop Ever your true and loving friend H Stafford Kirkwood NJ October 24--77 Dear Walt -- I thought perhaps you would like to get a note from me so I have come down to the store to write to you. Father had been to the city to day and came home sick with the headache, so sick he had to go to bead, the rest of the family are all well I balieve I am getting fat myself. You won't know me hardly when you see meme, every one who sees me tells me that I look so much better and what is more I feel better than I have since I left the farm, Walt I want to see you badly, I don't know weather I will get to come down Saturday or no, but if I don't get down Saturday I will come down Saturday week, for certain. I was down to see H Stafford to day, he wants to get me in J Seca's office for the winter, if he can and if [H?] he does it will be good for me, he is well and, at present working on the farm. H. G. is down yet, he will be down for several days by the way he talks him and our folks get along well. Mother thinks him tip top, and it makes her mad if I say anything against him she toled me the other day if I did not want to sleep with him I could go somewhere else for she was not going to keep a bed for me by myself. You will please excuse bad writing and other mistakes.Blank no. 1. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. The rules of this Company require that all messages received for transmission shall be written on the message blanks of the Company, under and subject to the conditions printed thereon, which conditions have been agreed to by the sender of the following message. O.H. PALMER. Sec'y WM. ORTON, Pres't Dated Oct 29 18[6]77 Received at Kirkwood NJ To Dear Walt; I received your letter this morning and was very glad to get it, and as I have nothing to now I will write to you, and let you know how we our down at the farm The folks are all well and hard at work, Father is going to the City to day and Mother is away, so the house is almost diserted & it inhabitants George & Routh to are at school and there is not one here but Debbie. I have wrote to you more for to thank you for the dollar than any thing else as I dont have any money but what you giv me, I don't know but what it is as well for me not to have any for if I haveen't any I dont smoke any and it is best for me not to I guess, I have not smoked any for nearly a week, so you se I am all alone now for when I have no company I can get a Cigar and pass the time away by my selfe, I did not se Lizzie last night and I think that I will give up goingwith her if she will be willing for I have so much to think of just at present that [I] it will be best for me, although I love her as well as ever, but I must get in some business before I think of the girls. I am doing well at the Telegraph business they all tell me and like it first rait but don't like the country. I will stay here untill I am fit for an office, though, I think that I will be by the time spring opens if I have good luck. I was very lonly Saturday night. I wanted to come up to see you but did not get to. Cousin Homer was over to see me yesterday and staied all night, and came over with me this morning and went from here to Philadelphia, he is looking for a situation at [t] telegraphing, him and Ed went to Haddonfield in Ed's new wagon. I have had one ride in it. Yours Truley write soon Harry StaffordKirkwood, N. J. November 2 1877. Dear friend, I received your welcome letter on the 31, was glad to get it, I received on from N Gilchrist the same day. He wishes me to come up to his house and go out to the theatre with him on Saturday, but I will not get to go, I would come up[t] to see you, but I will have to put it off until next Saturday week, I think, i want to come up and see go sail but cannot. I did not get my head of cabbage the same with him, so I did not go. The Salkes are all well I believe, and I feel better than I have for the past 3 days, but not as well as I did before I went to market. I hear that Elnear was over to see you 2 times and you and him went over to Mrs Gilchrist's to spend the evening, hope you had a good time. I must close. Ever your true and loving friend, H. Stafford Ps write soon and perhaps he has not received it. I am still with B K Sharp, him and I had a row one day last week, he came in as he always does with some of his fooling, and I gave him back as good as he sent and he got on his ear about it and toled me if things did not suit me here I was free to leave at any time, then I cursed him and went out of the office and went over to the Narrow Gauge and found a job, but when I came back to tell him he made up with me, and I sold, had to leave them with a commissioner, over in the city, I got all wet and caught cold, and have not been well since, have had the head ache all the time, It is raining very hard there, and when I went out to get the paper to write to you I got all wet and got the paper wet also, you must excuse the paper. I [wrott] wrote a letter Jo, to- day, I have not heard from him for a long time, I think that I wrote the last letter to him, but perhaps he did not get it, for I put it in a telegraphic envelope[*(Acc. 18, 592)*] [*Kirkwood Nov. 7 *] [*Nov 7, '77*] Walt Whitman Camden New Jersey[*Thanks for the dollar*] Blank No. 1. WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. The rules of this Company require that all messages received for transmission, shall be written on the message blanks of the Company, under and subject to the conditions printed thereon, which conditions have been agreed to by the sender of the following message. O. H. PALMER, Sec'y. J. H. WADE, Pres't. Dated, November 7 18[6]77 Received at Kirkwood N. J. To Dear Friend Walt; I received your letter yesterday P.M. was glad to hear from you. H.G. was down to see us last Sunday, he walked down and stade all night and came over with me to the depot and the went on the cars from here to Phila, he wants me to come up Saturday and stay all night with him, but I will not do it, we can go over for a little while and then come back to your house and stay all night. I will have to go over for a few hours any way for if I don't Mother will get on her ear she was very much put out because I did not go and see him the last time I was up in your house. I am [fell] feeling well, now but have not for some time untill to day, sick about half [the] of the time, but I guess I will be all right now, I have an invitation to a party to night but, I think that I will have to stay home and tend store for Ed, he wishes to go over that will [be an excuse?] for me [torn page]H.G. tells me that you [an] are well and doing fine sais that you come over to see them every evening. You must enjoy it or you would not do it, I think it will be good for you to keep it up for going out will give you strength and exercise both, I would like to be down with you. I suppose that you go to Woolstons once in a while, how does Elnar like the folkes there? I think that I would like to come up and board there gaain [it] if I ever come to Camden again to work I want to board withe them. Hope you are still well, father has been quite sick but is better at present, he will not live long I am [?] afraid he is sick more this fall than he has been for a long time, Mont & [Daniel?] still at shucking the have got some one to help them now I balive Well I have filled up the paper with nothing and I will have to stop, good by write soon, True [torn page] loving friend H. StaffordKirkwood N. J. November 17-77 Dear friend Walt - As I sit here in the office with nothing to do, I thought that I would write a few lines to you: I don't know as I have anything to say that will be news to you, but thought I would write more for practice than anything else. Ben has gon away to-day, but Geo. Fox is here with me Ben will not be home for a coupel of days' or more he has gon to N.Y. I don't feel very well this afternoon, have got the headache, as usual, worse this A.M.than I have had it for sometime. The folks and I have commenced to miss you aready, they were talking of you as soon as you left; I wish you was down here with us; when you came down Debbie said to me, it seems like home now Mr. Whitman is back: I wish you would put the ring on my finger again, it seems to me there is something that is wanting to compleete our friendship when I am [withy?] you, [?] have tride to studdy it out but cannot find out what it is, you know when you put it on there was but one thing to part it from me and that was death. Isn't it a fine day out, it does not look like a Fall day, more like a day in April, although there is no birds singing, but still I think that the day has more the ppearence of a Spring day than a Fall one. I think I will bring my letter to a close. for I have to make out some bills for the Freight - [?] by. Ever true [?] firend. Harry Stafford Ps Write soon, and come down when you can Yours,Kirkwood N. J. Nov 21 - 77 Friend Walt I received your letter this a.m. was glad to hear from you. Father is a great deal better today. he is going out a little he came out yesterday to see me and Homer kill [illegible?] he felt so beat he had to go right back [no] to bed gaain when he got in. I am not feeling very well not have for a week mearly Bhave the headache all the time, and have had it for a week, I caught cold somehow, I don't know how though. I wish you would bring me down a copy book, Spencerian if you can find it, No 8, and about 6 pens of the same kind will be much obliged to you if you will. You write and let me know how you are. Received the box all right Monday eve. Yours Truly Harry Stafford.[*Aug 28 '78*] Kirkwood Aug 28 N J Walt Whitman Camden City N. JCamden 7pm N.J.a thrashing - was like - Mother is down stairs, talking [??] - dad's [?] [?] writing [?] the old [?] June bugs - dad's been to [?] to day and - bought himself a new suit of clothes. Well, as this is the scond letter I have writtene this evening and I am run out of news, I will have to stop Your Lovering Friend H. L. Stafford P.S. write soon and lit me know how you are yours & H.L.S. [?] Mills N.J. Aug 26th - 78. [?] [?ttar] [?] [?] tie [?] day with Friday, of course I could not do it, but I was very sorry when I learned that you wer not coming down Saturday as you perdicted when you went awy, but we have not been lonely, for we have had the Enlishman with us ever since your departure; he has all taken his departure to day, for Egg Harbor, I believe, he is, [ca] counting on having you with him through the fall month or at least til [?] was, [?] invitation [?] I ratherthink the mosquetos - are too thick for me down here. Mont and I went to "darky" camp Tuesday and had [?] swor off [?] [?] and each [?] the devil [?] with the old but [?] four times and got all the money that wanted and then they would not shout, dont you think that they wer awful mean? I do, I saw one of them to-day, and he asked me if I was coming any more, and I told him that I hat went my east time, and he asked me how it was and pretty dam quick told him, he said it was rather mean but he broderm did not get de [?] in friday might, I said no [?] [?oney] in dar pocket didn't they? and he said yes. They are darned June bugs, and ought [?] [?ck] to [?] [?] [?] folks are. [?] were [harp?] trying to come back to me now but he can't do it he has "cooked his goose" with me now. I like working at the office very well. But has given me such an awful apetite that mother says that I will eat her out of house and home, if I keep on, that is a good sign isn't it? The folks are all well and myself [?] in [?] likeLaurel Mills N.J. Jan 13th 1879. Dear Walt: As I have been hard at work ever since I was up to see you, I thought I would write a few lines to let you know how I am getting on with it (threshing, I mean) we will finish by Saturday, if nothing happens, and I will be very glad of it for I am very sick of it. Mont., is helping me, he is as bad against as I am. Father went to the city with a load of straw today; perhaps he will be over in time to stop and see you. I believe the work is doing me good in some ways for it is making me eat more than everYou will not know me when you see me. I am getting so brown and fat. Mont.. received your papers today, those giving the account of the execution, it went over to Glendale before he got it. He was much pleased with it. Dear Walt I have saved enough out of that dollar you gave me to come up and see you. I have been trying to find a day to come up and see you but cannot until we finish threshing. I have been thinking it all over and will be up on Tuesday, next one week from tomorrow if nothing happens. I want to spend the day with you, and have a good talk, have some good cigars for me. (I know you will, won't you?) Debbie and Joe, were home yesterday and stayed all day. Capt., Townsend and wife were over too. Lizzie was over Saturday afternoon, stayed until late and of course I went home with her, had a good time with her, I told her about you sending your love to her. she sends you back the same. She says she would like to see you. I have been home ever since I was up to see you; there is but very little news about here now. Everything is the same as when you left here, Father is about the same as when you were down. Mother is well and all the rest of the folks. Mont and all the rest sends their love to you. Will have to close as Ed., wishes to close up the store. Will be up Tuesday if nothing happens. Ever your true friend, Harry L. StaffordGlendale N.J. Apr 4, 81 Dear Walt, I have watched and waited for some friendly line from you, for about one month yet not a line have you pened. I suppose you have forgotten your rural friend in the bustle and fashion of Boston life. I don't blame you very much; yet it seems to me that you would occasionally think of the loving times we have had in days gone by. I notice that is the way you always use us, but I will get square with you when I go off on my lecturing trip. not a line will I write you, and dont you forget it. Here I have been waiting in this dry and dusty office for some account of you and your happy trip, and this is the way you seen me is it. Well I have a new gal anda mighty wise little thing she is too. Just such a one as you would like, and I know if you were to see those pretty rosy lips you would be charmed beyond measure with them. Yet you shan't see her now that you used me so. She is a wild rose, plucked from the bosom of the forest, pure as a lily and gentle as the summer breezes. Mother is unwell and has been for some time. She she has to work too hard I think; she has tried to get some one to help her but it seems that she don't succeed very well. I hope she will be able to have some one ere long. Aunt Lizzie has been to see us twice since you were here, and is coming here to stay three or four days next week. Would like you to see her, think you would like her. Father is well as usual, and so we all are with the exception of Mother. Hoping to see or hear from you soon. I am yours as ever. H.L. Staffordletter from Harry May 4 '87Your truly Harry Stafford B write soon. you [nat?] church I went to and I said was not of any denomination and he then asked me if father was a church member and I did not know what to tell him but I got through with it, and he said that he would set me at work after dinner so that was the way I spent [*the first day.*] Woodbury N.J. Aug 14, 1877. Dear Walt - I have wrote to father and now I think that I will write to you and let you know how it goes with me. I like the place very well but it is dry here I not knowing any one and have no one to put me through the mill (as the saying is!) it is hard to getalong. The folkes are very nice but most too perticular, but it is the way of some to be that way you know. When you get up to Camden St it will be better for me for I then will have some place to go. I wan't to get up to see you once a week at least and have a good time, for I dont to let myselfe out here they are too nice for that, The old Gent asked me if I was a member of Church and I toled him I was not and he seemed disappointed buy hearing that I was not, he then asked me if I went to church away I toled him that I did sometimesUS POSTAL CARD. WRITE THE ADDRESS ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER IRKWO SEP 25 Walt Whitman, Camden City, N. J.Kirkwood N.J Sept 25 , '77 Dear Walt, will at your place on Saturday if you are at home: drop a line and let me know. Yours Harry StraffordThe folkes are all well as usual, and things go on the same as wen you was here with us. I ballieve that I have toled you all of the news and I think I will stop this is the 3rd letter I have written without an answer. I Remain your true and loving friend. Harry Stafford Kirkwood N. Jersey. Aug. 6th, 1877. Dear friend; as I sit here thinking of you and the pleasant time we had Saturday I thought I would drop you a line and let you know I got home all safe yesterday morning, had a good lot of work to do before I went home, waite for the fast line and reposted it to Camden street up the station and went home, got there bout 11 O'clock, had a cup of coffee and the went to bed and slep untill dinner time, got up and went to Sunday schoolcame home got supper and went to the pond, I had a headache, did not sleep very well last night, but feel first-rait to day. Herbret cut me prety hard last [t] night at the supper table, you must not let on if I tell you; he called ma a "darn fool," I wasn't talking to him anyway! we was all talking of telegraphing, and father said he was reading of a man who was trying' to aveido - it and I said that I did not think he could do it and the Herbret stuck in that, it did not fit very well, and if I had been near enough to [st] smacked him in the "jaw" I would of done it. you must not say any thing about it to him or any one, he thinks he can do as he wants to, with me but he will find out sometime hat he is fooling with the wrong one. I think that his oldest sister is splendid, but I don't like the other one so well. I will be up to see you on Thursday to stay all night with you, dont want to go any wais then, want to stay in and talk with you. did not get time to say anything to you when I saw you did not have time to say scarcely anything.[*this is a piece of paper I found in the desk set excuse the appearance of it*] Camden & Atlantic R.R. JUL 9 1877 KIRKWOOD. Dear Walt. I thought I would write a line or so to you and let you know that we are all well. Mother got a letter from you stating that you would not down tomorrow. We are all most rosted in this place, the sun, is so warm and yet we cannot have the window up for if we do [we] the wind blows all of our papers out doors. Walt there is a couple of letters down at our house for youone from England and one from New York, the one from N. Y, is from a bank I forget the name of the bank it is on the outside of the envelope. I wish that I coul[d] get a situation in a good printing office. Try the Democrat of Camden for me, will you? I should like to see you but I suppose I cannot untill you come down as the the paper is running out I will have to stop. Ever your loving, Harry Stafford write soon and come downThe folks are all well, and myself the same. I think of you when ever I have a moment to think, I don't get much time to think about anyone for when I am not thinking of my business I am thinking of what I am shielding. I want to try and make a man of myself, and do what is right if I can do it. I haven't said from J I Allen yet. I will have him to stop writing now for my sheat is giving out and I must go to work. [*so good bye. Ps write and let me know how you are Ever your true an loving friend Harry Stafford*] Kirkwood, N.J. October 17 - 77 Dear Friend Walt: I don't know as I have any thing to say that will interest you, but I feal as if I would like to write something, and so I will begin by telling you about the fun I had last night. it was with a fellow that has been thinking for a long time he could throw me, so last night him and I came together for, the first; he said he could throw me and I said if he thought so he was welcome to try his hand. so we buckedin. he had first holt and mine second. his holt we [b] puled around for a short time and then I let loose on him and down he went, then came my holt (he did not want me to hav it but I got him in to it) and I asked him if he was ready and he said he was so I stood him on his head, he got up and said he would go home, but he did not have much to say all the way home, I guess that I hurt his [l] neck by the way he went, but he did not say anything. There is one more fellow who I want to take the conceat out of, and that [I]. is B.K. Sharp, he thinks he could do what he pleased with me but I want to show him he cannot do it. I was out Sunday night had a good time, went to church and then come home. Cousin Lizzie was over to our house Sunday and went to Sunday school, then came home & ate our supper and then went out for a ride. I will be down to see you Saturday if nothing happens more than I know of now, will be down on the (5' 1/2) train, perhaps on the (2) I don't know yet for certain.1877 Kirkwood July 21 Dear friend - I thought I would write a few lines to you and let you know how I am. I cannot get you off my mind somehow. I heard something that made me feel bad, and I saw that you did not want to bid me good bye when you went away yesterday. I will tell you what it was. I heard that you was going to Washington and stay and be gone for some time, is it so? I thought it was very strange in you, [by] in not saying Sharp load the car's I am sitting by the window and the ftys are almost eating me up. we have been trying to kill them but seems to me the more we kill of them the more we have Mr. Sharp got out of patience in trying so he took the poison out this morning. I have got to scrub the office out this afternoon, so you can imagine me down on the floor. good bie write if it pleases you. Ever your Harry Staffordanything to me about it, I think of it all the time. I cannot get my mind on my work the best I can do. I should like to come up to Camden next week, and stay all night with you if I could but I [dont] suppose I can not do it. I wish you would write to me soon and let me know how you are. Things are verry dull down here to day. there isn't any Excursion to day and it is quiet and I don't like it very well. There was n Excursion here yesterday it was given by a rich man of Philadel., to the poor children of the [world?] in which he lived. there was over 200 on it. They appeared to enjoy it verry well. I was up there in the afternoon a little while. Mother got home all safe last night, she was home when I got there [last night] Perhaps I will be up Wednesday night in the 6 train. I will if I can. if I do I will have to come back on the earley train in the morning. So I will be in time to help Mr.Home Sunday evening Dec 23rd Dear friend we have looked for you down with us so long & you have not come that we have given up all hope of ever seeing you again with us so I write to say the kit of fish [?] presents that you have so kindly sent us have all come safe [?] thank you more than words can tell I should have written [to] for you last week to spend Christmas with us but I had a [l] very severe attact of the heart & was not able to do so I am better now will you please come this week we shall lookfor you do not disappoint us we have waited so long please write what day you will come & we will meet you at the station ever your friend Uncle Staffordfriend I have, and when I cannot have you I will go a way some ware, I dont know where. Mr Carpenter has been to see me several times since I was [up] away and he lef me a book and a letter, the letter was to inform me of his intention of going back to England, I will show it to you when I see you good bye. Balieve me to be your true and loving friend, Harry Stafford. Camden City, N. J. May, 21st, -77. Dear friend - You cannot imagin how bad I was disappointed in not seeing you to night. I went down to the depot to meet you, and not finding you, I thought perhaps you came on the 1 O'clock train, so I went down [*I shall be at the station to meet you. Yours H L S*]to the house but did not find you. I have been over in the City to day, but did not get any thing to do, I went around untill I got sick [g] and then I, came over here. I have been to see several over here but none [can] could give me any encouragement. You may say that I don't care for you, but I do . I think of you all the time, I want you to come up to-morrow night if you can. I have been to bed to night, but could not sleep for thinking of you so I got up and scribbled a few lines to you, to go in the morning mail. I hope you will not disappoint me. I want you to look over the past and I will [t] do my best to ward you in the future. you are all the true[*June 5th '78*] Kirkwood Jun 8 N.J. Mr. Walt Whitman, Camden City, Camden Co., N.J.Camden 6 PM N.J.my board he did not think I could earn that I guess for he left me and went home. The result was this he refuses to let me practise on his line. What do you think of [????] a rich [????] rough [????] [????] explain the matter [????] [????] [????] [????] The folks are all well and all [???] you very much. Excuse writing for I am in a hurry Your affectionate son Harry Stafford Kirkwood, N.J. June 5th, 187 Dear Walt— I have said that I would not write to you any more (until you wrote to me), but I have got some more of [????] tell you: [????] [????] that I [????] [????] [????] [????] one [????] [????] [????] [????] [????] [????] [????] to bother you. But I have something I would like you to know: it is this, last Mondaymorning [??] Lucas stoped me as I was coming from the pond with a pail of watter (on my way to the Station) and asked me how I would like to come over to his office and help the boys with the [books?] and do the [????] I said [????] like to come and he [ta???] [????] asked [????] questions which I answered [????] and then he asked me to come over during the day and he would talk farther [???? the subject, so [???] I got there he said that [I] he would give me $50. for one year and board myselfe [so I told] in the meantime he went away and left me with the boys, so when I came away they asked me if [????] come back [????] that I would see Mr. Lucas at the [????] in the morning and give him [????] [????] [????] my answer was no, of corse, I told him that I could not work for any less than[Kirkwood?] N.J. Jan 24 /78 [????] am [????] Ed [????] [??uld] [????] to let [????] I am: I have been well since I saw you, but Father [i] is very sick today, he has been in bed almost all day, he looks very badly; he wanted to know [whather] wheather you asked after him or no, he asked me if I asked you to come down he wants to see you and so do I and [????] of usI did not get to go away last night. I wanted [????] but the [????] so [????] so [????] not [????] asked about [????] I got home that night wanted to know when you was coming down &c, They all seem put out because you don't come down. You must come down soon as you can. I will be up to see you soon. You did not give me what you said you was going [????] it because [????] this one if so I will give it back to Lizzie. [????] you will [????] , you [????] I [????] bit [????] this [????] I am in such a hurry I have to write fast but I will show you some of my [rit] writing on the envalope I will have to close now as there is some folks here that are waiting for me now. Goodbye write soon ever true and loving friend, H Staffordwas taken sick that day I was up there. Father is well as usual: he was to market to-day with potatoes. We are having a fine rain to-night down here, it hasn't come too soon either things were kneeding [????] will make [????] [????] time [????] [?having?] [????] [????] so [????] feel [????][????oes] me [????] improve myself [????] more. Well I have to close as the paper is given out. Your loving son, H.L. Stafford P.S. write soon and oblige yours -- Laurel Hills N.J. July 27th., 78. My Dear, Dear, Friend, I received the rubarb to-day, it came just in time: I have been sick for some time past, I took a dose [????] as soon as I got it [????] [????] I was [dis????] [????] when [????] and [????] told [????] on [????] I [look?] [????] I did [????] perhaps [y????] [????] were [comp????][????] up there. Mr. Whitman, I want to ask[????] don't want [????] don't want [????]at me, it is this—do you think if I study and write all the spare time I have that in the corse of two or three years I would be able to be an editor? I have been thinking for about two months that I would like to be something, and I [????] that than [????] tryed to [????] it, [????] my [????] [????king] [????] I [????] time [????] [??oney] of [????] you to think [????] what I have said and tell me what conclusion you have come to [when?] I see you [????] work to-gather [????] [times?] have become settled, and our love sure (although we have had very many rough times to-gather) but we have stuck too each other so far, and we will until we die, I know. I was down to see Mr [J????mun] Friday [????] him, as I [??ined] [????] Mr [????] [sat???] [L????] court [????] would [????] and I had [????] out finding [????] Mother is very sick and has been ever since I came home, sheI have been thinking of the suit of cloths which I am to have like yours: I have had myself all pictured out with a suit of gray, and a white slouch hat on about fifty times, since you spoke of it; the fellows will call me Walt then. I will have to do something great and good in honor of the name. What will it be? [W????] [????] have to [????] [??ing] out [????] [????] Yours truly Harry Stafford PS. write soon and let know how you are Yours H.S. Kirkwood N.J. Mar 26th. 1878. Dear Walt— as I have thought of you almost constantly since I came home I thought I would write a few lines to you [and] to let you know that I am feeling pretty well, and sinceerly hope that you are [th??] [???] Mother [????] [ter???day], [????] [????] [Ka????] [????] been [????] she [????] City before [????] if she should [????] no doubt but that she will stop in to see you on her herher [????] Things are about as they were [l] when you was down here, (any more than we have had a fearful storme of wind and sand). The wind blew so hard last Sunday night, that it almost upset me when I was comeing home, "for I was out then, as usual." Father and all are well: "John" the 'darkey man' is here yet: [R???] George have their fun [????] has been [????] the [????] white [????] [????] [????] has been [????] drinking it [to??] [????] skin white it rather gets [i] to him but he takes it all in good part: he asked Van [???] other day, wheather the first man on earth was black or white, and Van told him the first man was white, and then John asked him where the black man came from, and Van told him that a black man was a [mo] monkey with his tail cut off, so he gave up talking to him and whent on with Georg. There is quite [???] the music since [????] the wind is [????] ["B???} [????] ["Tho??] [????] "Age of [????] wish you [????], I have been going [????] for it for sometime but haven't thought of it before.Harry Lamb Stafford Kirkwood Glendale New Jersey BOSTON SEP 1[?] 2 P.M. M[*526*] NEW [YORK?] SEP 15 8 AM 81 TRANS[??][*April 3 1877*] Harry Stafford Kirkwood Camden Co New Jersey [?] [?] 6 P M [?] U. S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS U. S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTSJuly 27 '78Camden 7PM N.J.Walt Whitman Autograph Letters [1876] 1880 April 13 Whitman, Walt to Harry Stafford, Camden ANS 1 p with envelope Bucke incorrectly dated this 1876. Should be "1880". Feinberg Collection of Walt WhitmanTuesday evening April 13, [1876] [*1880*] Harry, If come up Thursday (say by the 5:13 pm train) go up to the hall by 7'oclock and make yourself useful if you feel like it -- Give this note to the one it is address'd to - ask for him there -- (I will mention it to him) -- he is bossing the thing for me -- act as usher, or door keeper, or help in the box office -- it will be fun for you -- WaltCamden Feb: 7 [*(1881)*] Dear boy Harry, Your letter rec'd today -- I am sorry you didn't go in & read the piece your own self -- it has got to be the done speaking in public & the more you hang back & dread it the worse it grows -- after trying it on once or twice, you find it is nothing to be afraid of -- I have been busy all the forenoon fixing one of my little pieces "How to get around at 60 and take notes" for the NY paper, The Critic -- they give me $10 a piece for them & want several more -- I make use of my notes at Timber Creek and Glendale and every where -- I shall use them in a book at a future time -- Hank Dear boy, I hope you are all right again by the time this reaches you -- It is now noon & I must get out a bit-- I went out & took a short stroll, but my knees gave out & I had to turn back -- beautiful day here -- I saw had 10 minutes talk with saw the young lady lives next door but one above us in Stevens Street ( I have spoke to you about) a great friend of mine lived here ever since we have -- I think she is the handsomest woman & pleasantest ways for young , I have ever knew -- full figure, blonde, good hair, teeth complexion about 19, a worker too, cooks & scrubs, but when she dresses up, she takes the shine off of all -- (O that I was young again) always feel better the whole day when I see and talk with her, 8 1/2 Evening - after supper, I will finish -- Have been over in Phila -- went out a ways on Market St cars - nothing to write about particular -- shall be down Friday in the 4½ P M train to Kirkwood - So long, Dear son - W WBoston Sept 14 , [*(1881)*] Dear Hank yours of 11th just rec'd -- I enclosed you a note to Secretary of War, at a venture If you go on, you get to see the secretary. It wouldn't be any use to send it by mail — -- (as you requested) -- I shall be through here in nine or ten days -- Keep well yet -- -- Shall stop a week or so in New York -- then home to Camden for two or three weeks -- then to Canada for some time. Yours Walt I suppose you got the papersCamden. Jan 25 '87[2?] Dear Harry, Yours rec'd -- I am just starting off a few miles out from Phila -- probably a day or to two only - will look up the book you require (If I can find one) soon as I come back. - & send you -- I am ab't as usual -- Nothing very new -- -- Hank if I'd known you was coming home last Sunday would have come down Saturday & staid till Monday any way -- You say you wrote a blue letter but didn't send it to me -- Dear boy the only way is to dash ahead and "Whistle! all cares away" -- after all its mostly in ones' self one gets blue & not from outside -- life is like the weather - you've got to take what comes, & youcan make it all go pretty well if they think so (& provide in reason, for rain & snow) -- -- I wish it was so you could all your life come in & see me often for an hour or two -- you see I think I understand you better than any one -- (& like you more too) -- -- (you may not fancy so, but it is so) -- & I believe Hank there are many things, confidences, questions, candid says you would like to have with me, you have never yet broached -- me the same -- -- Have you read about Oscar Wilde? He has been to see me & spent an afternoon -- He is a fine large handsome youngster had the good sense to take a great fancy to me! -- I was invited to reception in Phil'a. am'g the big boys & a grand dinner to him by Mr & Mrs Childs -- but did not go to any. -- Awful cold here, this is now the third day. -- but you know all all about that -- (you say you know you are a great fool -- don't you know every cute fellow secretly knows that about himself -- I do) God bless you my Darling boy -- keep a brave heart -- W WCamden Feb 28 late afternoon [*(1882)*] Dear boy Harry, I sent you a few lines three days ago, but I will write again as I have just rec'd yours of 26 -- a little wild & nervous & uncertain some parts, (but I am always glad to get any letters, from you dear boy) -- Harry you certainly know well enough you have my best honorable loving friendship settled -- -- Of the past I think only of the comforting soothing things of it all -- I go back to the times at Timber Creek beginning most five years ago & the banks & spring, & my hobbling down the old lane - & how I took a good turn there & commenced to get slowly but surely better, healthier, stronger -- Dear Hank I realize plainly that If I had not known you -- if it hadn't been for you & our friendship & my going down there summers to the creek with you -- and living there with your folks, & the kindness of your mother & cheering me up -- I believe I should not be a living man to-day -- -- I think & remember deeply these things & they comfort me -- & you my darling boy are the central figure of them all -- -- Of the occasional ridiculous little storms & squalls of the past I have quite discarded them from my memory -- & I hope you will too -- The the other recollections overtop them altogether, & occupy the only permanent place in myheart -- as a manly loving friendship for you does also, & [will] will while life lasts -- Harry don't be discouraged by any business or other disappointments of the past -- It will all turn out right -- The main thing in my opinion, after finding out as much as possible of life & entering upon it (it is a strange minded business, this life) is to live a good square one -- This I believe you are really anxious to do, & God bless you in it & you shall have all the help I can give -- your loving ever-faithful old friend & comrade Walt Whitman I think I am slowly getting over my chill -- it is rainy, dark, muggy day & I am staying in -- had a nice call from a young Beverley merchant Mr. Hovey yesterday, he bo't a set of books -- Did you know young Harry Bonsall is & has been some time in the Insane Asylum at Blackwood town? I was out to dinner yesterday to Mr. & Mrs. Scovel's -- turkey and champagne! -- but that is the only spree for me in five weeks -- [*Hank I want you to acknowledge this letter -- I hope this wont fail to reach you like some others I have sent -- I want to come down before long & then we will have some good square talks -- it is now half past 4 & I see the sun is going to set clear*]Camden Jan 30 "83 Evening -- Dear friend Your letter came & I ought to have written to you before, but one thing & another prevented. I was up to Germantown, to a friend's where I have been a good deal lately. Spent the Christmas & New Year holidays there -- they came for me, so I went & was glad -- a big house full of people, old & young folks & plenty of fun & every thing good lots of oysters - & cook'd so nice -- I never knew how much there is in the cooking - Otherways I have been here in C. all the time, have done a little work writing, but nothing much. -- -- My brother from St. Louis has been on here with us for a while -- & I have callers & visitors quite often -- ------------ Ruth I got your letter -- it was very acceptable -- I will answer it before long[*I want to come down soon - is the coast clear?*] How are you all? I hope this will find you all well - little George is all right again I trust by this time - - I met two jolly & good-looking Jersey boys this afternoon over in Market Street, Phila. - it was Elmer and Ed Stafford - we had a little talk - did me good to meet them I don't think Jersey has two nicer looking boys - I was on my way to West Philadelphia to see about a Mr Anders, an elderly man sick with consumption. Young Mr Anders and I had got acquainted in Canada, two years ago & quite attached to each other - he was a soldier there - I got a letter from him from Montreal Day before yesterday, asking me to go to a certain number in West Phila: & see his father, who had come on here some time ago quite sick - young A. wanted me to see & write to him how the father was particular - - so I went up to-day - when I gott there I found the elder A. was Dead & buried - so I have just had to write the sad intelligence to my Canada friend - love to you & all W W [*I have written a few lines to Harry*]Camden Oct. 22 Evng [*(1883)*] Dear Harry The spirit moves me to scribble off a few line to you - but I don't know why, for I have no news to tell you & nothing particular to write about any how. I returned to-day from a three day visit to my Quaker friends at Germantown -- They have tip top horses & carriage, & we had good long drives Saturday afternoon - & Sunday towards evening after the rain -- After supper & the things are removed we all sit around the table we sometimes keep it up an hour & half & have a good talk & discussions, & accounts of any thing that has occurred during the day, & somebody has questions to put or information to glean, -- perhaps some little recitation or a singing, a good lot of us eight or nine altogether. - There are two just grown daughters, as nice and jolly and cute as young women can be -- one son -- & always thee or four others -- making a good timeSunday morning, they have family prayers -- I was requested to read a chapter from the testament -- (the Sermon on The Mount) -- which I did -- (I wish you could have all seen & heard me ) -- I never beheld such a merry, affectionate, hearty, healthy family -- nobby, too ---- -- With me, this fall everything just floats idly along, as far as writing and work are concerned -- Down There at Ocean Grove and along, Barnegat &c. I was moved to write a poem on the ocean -- I have turned it & turned it & rewritten it over & over again - but can't get it to suit me yet -- Harry, how is it with you? & why didn't you come & tell me -- before you left the printing office here? -- Write me a line soon as you get this. -- Sometimes I think you must be sick -- I am about as usual -- I am writing this after 9 at night up in my room sitting in the big ratan chair. God bless you Harry Dear -- WWCAMDEN NOV 19 1884 N.J. Harry L and Eva Stafford RR Station Marlton New Jersey WALT WHITMAN Camden New Jersey1.20 2.70 1.30 ------ 1.40 [cancellation stamp] [?] PHIA, PA. NO[?] 19 8 AM TRANSIT328 Mickle Street Camden Evening Nov 18 '84 My Dear friends Your kind letter (Eva's) came this afternoon & it gave me real comfort both to hear from you & have such loving remembrance & friendly invitation -- Harry Dear boy, I hardly think I shall be able to come down & be with you this Thanksgiving -- but I will come one of these times -- since I have got into this shanty, although I go out every day. I don't go any distance -- haven't been away this past summer, only one short trip to Cape May -- My lameness increases on me -- it probably wont be long before I shall be unable to get around at all -- -- General health otherwise about the same as usual. -- Eva, my dear friend it would be a true comfort for me if it was so I could come in every few days, and you and Harry and Icould be together -- I am sure it would be good for me ---- -- Nothing very new in my affairs -- not much sale for my books at present, or for the last fifteen months -- Harry your mother call'd here last Monday, but I was not in, was over to Germantown -- I was sorry to be away -- I am writing this up in my room -- am alone most of the time -- write a little most every day -- sell a piece once in a while -- -- maintain good spirits and a first rate appetite -- My Dear friends indeed I appreciate your loving wishes & feelings, & send you mine the same, for both of you. Walt Whitman Eva would you like to have me send you some paper now & then? Write to me whenever you can. Harry I am sorry about the neck -- I think it will get right & heal in time[*Nov 27 '77*] [stamp] [KIRKWO??] [???] 27 N. J. Walt Whitman Esq Camden City N.J.Camden May 28 1890 [*How is it for the young ones Eva*] Dear Harry & Dear Eva & Dear babies Seems to me the trees & grass & skies never looked so fine as they do these early summer days. I suppose this letter to your folks at Glendale will give the points of news abt me &c. I keep up Hank (but it is a tough job sometimes.) -- If I am well enough I go over to a birth day supper some friends insist on giving me Saturday even'g next. From that I enter on my 72d year -- Walt WhitmanEva Stafford[*Harry Stafford Oct 4 '77*] KIRKWOOD OCT 5 [?] U.S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS Walt Whitman Camden City N.J.J R O AND CO. 211 TREMONT STREET, Boston, Aug: 24, 1881. Dear Hank I am here seeing to the setting up & stereotyping of my book in a big printing office, (Rand & Avery.) - Every thing goes satisfactory enough, so far. I suppose you rec'd the paper (or papers?) I sent - they will give you some acc't of two or three little happenings in my jaunt - I was down on Long Island at the spot where I was born & where I had spent my summers in youth from time to time - went around to all the old places I hadn't seen before for 40 years - seems to me now the most beautiful region on earth - Dr. Bucke was with me & he thought so too - Before I went there, I was at Rockaway (L I) & at Long Branch (N J) - The [the] last two weeks I have been in NY city - - So you see I have been the rounds - - I am pretty well - & have been so -I shall probably stay here a month or more -- Dear boy I wish you would write to me a good long letter & tell me all the news especially about your self. Direct to me care of Osgood & Co: 211 Tremont Street, Boston Mass: and I shall get it. I have not been much about Boston this time, but it is a lively place to be in -- the streets all crumpled up, short and more corners & angles than anything else, but clean & handsome -- -- this forenoon I have been some time on the Common (an old Park of 60 or 70 acres right in the midst of the city with lots of fine very old trees) -- I am now writing this in Osgood's place in Boston (they are the publishers of my book) -- How are you & all getting along? -- I wish you to give my love to your father & mother. -- Debbie & Jo Ed, Mont & Vern -- Ruth & little George & tell them I remember the good times I have had past summers -- & show this letter to them if they wish -- -- It is now nearly 1 & I must go off to my dinner -- God bless you Dear boy & farewell for this time -- I shall write again before long - Yours old WaltUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD. ONE CENT NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE. CAMDEN, N.J. JUL 24 5 PM 87 1 Harry Lamb Stafford RR station Marlton New Jersey MARLTON JUL 25 N. J.Camden Sunday pm July 24 '87 Well Hank Dear boy how are you standing it this hot summer? Eva I want you to write to me & tell me. We have had it fearful hot & tainted here for over seven weeks, but I am alive & kicking yet -- it is rainy to-day but warm yet -- I shall drive down to your parents in a day or two -- (intended to have gone to-day) -- nothing very new with me. Much the same old story -- H G in here yet -- the sculptor Morse also -- I remain in good spirits but a pretty bad case bodily. Love to you & E & the little one Walt WhitmanUnited States Postal Card One Cent nothing but the address to be on this side. Camden N.J. FEB 6 8 pm 89 2 Harry Lamb Stafford RR Station Marlton New JerseyCamden Feb: 6 '89 Am here yet Dear Hank in the same place &c, after passing a good hard shaking (& not out of it yet) -- but somewhat better -- -- Have written & sent your folks at Glendale a longish letter wh-- I want you to have, as it is meant as much for you -- I have finished all my books &c. . and feel better. Best love -- Walt WhitmanUnited States Postal Card Nothing but the address to be on this side Camden Jun 10 6AM 91 Harry L Stafford Ashland New JerseyCamden June 9 '91 Still keep sick & helpless. Send best wishes & love to E and the young ones -- E Carpenter has return'd f'm Ceylon & written to me-- speaks of you -- he is well & flourishing -- How are you getting along & your Dear parents? I hope well -- Dr B is back in Canada well & busy -- Walt WhitmanUS Postal Card Write the address on this side- the message on the other U.S. Postage One Cent Walt Whitman Esq., Camden City, N.J.Kirkwood N.J. Jan 29th '78 Walt Whitman Dear sir: would you oblige me by bringing me one of your books containing the "Poem on the death of exPresident Lincoln:" If so you will oblige your true friend. I wish it for a particular purpose. Yours and etc. H. Stafford[*May 13 1878*] New York May 13 6 PM 79 U.S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS 2 Harry L. Stafford Kirkwood [*Glendale*] Camden County New Jersey[*January 27 1881?*] CAMDEN JAN 27 N. J. U.S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS Harry Lamb Stafford Kirkwood Glendale New Jersey WALT WHITMAN Camden New Jersey[*April 13 1876?*] Camden APR 14 N.J. U.S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS Harry L Stafford (Glendale) Kirkwood New Jersey [WA?]LT WHITMAN Camden New JerseyCamden Wednesday Evn'g Dec: 1-- [*1880*] Dear Hank Nothing very new with me the last two weeks -- how has it been with you? -- Are you on the C & A again -- & how about that Medford Station? -- Write soon -- (it will do you good to write & fully & carefully -- I wish you would oftener) -- I have had something of a set back -- -- A rascally publisher in New York named Worthington has been printing and selling a cheaper edition of my book for his own profit, no benefit to me at all -- & it has been going on privately for a year -- I only found it out for certain about ten days ago -- of course it is quite a hurt to me -- will lead to a law suit, as I shall have to sue him, & I hate getting into law -- it is almost as bad to me to sue, as to be sued -- then it cost money -- I am jogging along here about the same -- keeppretty well, & eat my allowance every time -- went over to 41st St: Phila: to eat my Thanksgiving dinner with an old friend of mine, (his wife & two young ones) -- had a good time -- came back home in a rousing snow storm, but got along all right -- -- Sunday morning went to breakfast at Mr and Mrs Scovel's -- -- I am sitting up here 3d story -- warm & nice, everything as still as can be -- it has struck 8 am the wind outside moans & whistles by starts -- have been reading the evening paper, & today's N Y Tribune -- & I thought I would write to you, but I am afraid I haven't made out a very interesting letter -- It was well I was down there the good weather middle of November -- it has been bad enough since, some bitter cold -- I have got my new overcoat, it is thick & warm & I like it -- have you got the new cider? -- Love to your father & mother, not forgetting your share Dear son -- Walt328 Mickle St Camden Wednesday Night May 28 [*1884*] Dear Harry I rec'd your letter over two weeks ago - Am glad you have a good place at Marlton -- such a spot is so much pleasanter than Phila or Camden or any close city -- Hank I am sorry you have that trouble with your throat but I have no doubt it will go over in time -- Your mother was up here [day before] yesterday - brot me a nice chicken -- said everything was all right with your folks home -- I am pretty much as usual again after quite a long siege -- I am here in a little old house [horse] I have bought -- my room is a bigone in the 2nd story - get along well enough (nothing to brag of ) - there is a couple of elderly folks, acquaintances of mine Mr. and Mrs. Lay, they live in the house & I take my meals with them. Anyhow I like it all over so much better than the Stevens Street business - Am not doing any thing lately & the sale of my books has been very slow for some time - Met a lady on the ferry last week, she came up to very pleasant & said "Your friend Jo Allen is in Laredo, Texas, keeping store doing well & has a family" - - So long Harry Dear boy - write soon & I will the same - - I send you some papers WWCamden Nov: 21 pm '88 Dear Hank Yours of 20th rec'd this morning & is quite a surprise to me, & a little not understandable - But you will tell me plainer when you come up & see me Saturday - Don't do any thing too hastily, & from great excitement - I shall look for you Saturday - If any thing prevents your coming, write me & write fully, - I am much the same - rather easier if any thing the past two week - but the bad pall - weight & inertia. (like a sluggish sleepy, tired, great weight, as of heavy irons on me, body & spirit) seem to be on me all the time - & appear destined for life. - Still keep the sick chair & sick room - now going into the sixth month) - The big book, (my whole works in one Vol.) will be bound now in a week or ten days - I suppose Eva bro't you the little Nov: Boughs -Things go on comfortably with me - Eat & sleep fairly - spirits good yet - Sunny cold weather here - Herbert comes quite often - Two visitors ladies strangers just here to see me - love to you Dear boy, & to Eva and Dora - Walt WhitmanCamden Tuesday noon April 26 Harry boy we have missed you two or three Days & both I & Mrs D wondered & wanted you - but Ed has been here this forenoon & days you are not coming up any more to have the cut dress'd - So I hope it is healing all right & will be no more trouble - Nothing new or special with me - sold one of my books to-day which helps along - - Am not feeling quite as well usual - (but nothing particularly bad) Pretty dull here - If I did not have naturally good spirits I dont know what would become of me when I'm here like a rat in a cage Day in & out - But I must not growl - it might be so much worse - If the weather is good I should be down to Glendale Sunday next - Love to E and little D Walt Whitman[*Harry Stafford letters*] [?] AUG [?] [?] U.S. POSTAGE THREE 3 CENTS Walt Whitman 21 Kirkwood [St.?] New Jersey[KIRKWOO?] JUL 9 N.J. Walt Whitman Camden City New Jerseyenvelopes at Allemus[??] take [the] white hat to 8th st Shoes (base ball) see about a pair for Mrs Stafford [?] stuff for trousers some stockings & hdkfs at Johnny's coffeeEnvelop addressed by Harry Stafford to Walt Whitman, with A.L.s., July 9, 1877. The A.L.s. is cased with the Stafford letters. C.E.F.Walt Whitman CAMDEN MAR 8 N. J. Harry Lamb Stafford Kirkwood (Glendale) New Jersey Whitman whitman Camden New Jersey WALT WHITMAN Camden New JerseyKLL J[??] [?]HJ H. Chas McKiney J[??]Harry L Stafford (glendale) Kirkwood Camden County New Jersey Whitman Camden New Jersey KirkwoodCross-Reference General Correspondence Stafford, Harry, to WW, Feb. 10 1884 See Vepo General Correspondence Stafford, George, & Susan M. Feb. 14, 1884,Box 16Cross-reference General Correspondence Stafford, Harry, to WW, Nov. 28, 1883 See Verso General Correspondence Stafford, George, & Susan M. Dec. 1, 1883. Box 16Cross-Reference General Correspondence Stafford, Harry, to WW Dec. 17, 1883 See Vepo General Correspondence Stafford, George, & Susan M., Dec. 21 1883. Box 16Harry Lamb Stafford Kirkwood (glendale) New Jersey 100 1/2 1/2 2 1/2 50 25 5 1/2 --- [7]8[7]0 1/2 33 --- 0 No 80 a 27D4RB7328 Mickle St Camden June 9 '85 Dear Harry & Dear Eva, I am still badly lamed by my turned ankle of six or seven weeks ago - otherwise about as good health as usual - Am much pleased at the nice little home & interested in the printing office venture all right - But think twice about the monthly periodical project — - Nothing specially new withMe - I like my new house lady Mrs. Davis & Eva Dear girl when you come up to Camden for a day come here & make your headquarters - I am sure you will like it & be contended, as we should gladly be — Harry Dear son, how is that throat? - God bless both of you - & a good kiss for each from W W