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Lot #834
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Longfellow acts as guardian angel to financially devastated German poet Ferdinand Freiligrath, and advises against asking the Americans for help as they rebuild after the Civil War: “The Americans have of late been so drained of their money by all kinds of urgent necessities, that I shouldn’t wish to call upon them.”

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Description

Longfellow acts as guardian angel to financially devastated German poet Ferdinand Freiligrath, and advises against asking the Americans for help as they rebuild after the Civil War: “The Americans have of late been so drained of their money by all kinds of urgent necessities, that I shouldn’t wish to call upon them.”

ALS signed “Henry W. Longfellow,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, June 6, 1867. Letter to a friend concerning the financial plight of his friend, German poet Ferdinand Freiligrath. In part, “I certainly wish to do everything I can to assist Freiligrath in his trouble; and have not only subscribed to the Fund, but have also sent assistance directly to Freiligrath himself. But I doubt of the propriety of presenting the subject…to the Americans…The Americans have of late been so drained of their money by all kinds of urgent necessities, that I shouldn’t wish to call upon them with a new subscription paper at present.” In 1867 Freiligrath lost his position in the "Bank of Switzerland", since it had to be closed. A public subscription of 60,000 talers raised in Germany enabled him to return in June 1868. In fine condition, with expected folds and light toning. R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #297 - Ended May 18, 2005