Lamenting the death of Henry L. Pierce, former mayor of Boston and close friend of the Aldrich family, and hoping for a visit, in an autograph letter to William Winter (“Dear Will”), signed by Aldrich (“Tom”), Dec. 29, 1896
8vo. 2-pages, approximately 150 words, in part: “The day after the death of our dear old friend Mr. Pierce I was taken down with a cold of the lungs, and am only now able to be about … whenever you can manage to run away from your work send me word a few days beforehand, that I may line a room with welcome for you … at Ponkapog – for Mr. Pierce, whose tender thoughtfulness seems inexhaustible, has given us the privilege during our lives to occupy the old house in which we have spent so many happy hours. We have had a most sad Christmas, … we shall miss that sweet old man at our fireside … He was a beautiful character – simple, wise, daring, and gentle.” Aldrich (1836-1907; American writer, poet, and critic) edited The Atlantic Monthly, 1881-1890; Winter (1836-1917) served as drama and literary critic for the Albion, Harper’s Weekly, and Horace Greeley’s Tribune during the second half of the 19th century; and Pierce (1825-1896) served as Mayor of Boston, 1878-1879. From the Estelle Doheny collection, with her folder, noting a 1930 purchase from Dawson’s for $12.75. Short separations at folds, otherwise in good condition. Item #68593
Price: $125.00