Self-educated African-American botanist (circa 1864–1943) who became a leading expert in agricultural science, most notably relating to the cultivation and practical uses of the peanut. ALS signed “G. W. Carver,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, Tuskegee Institute letterhead, February 14, 1933. Carver writes to Mr. Davis. In part: “This spring when the weather gets good, I do hope we can get out on your brother’s farm, where we can have a really good time. I would so love to see you on a farm of your own with all the things you love about you. I would love to see my dear, handsome boy take a small place, possibly rundown, and add to it little by little with your own hands, building it up here, improving it there, making it an ideal place for you when the waning shadows of life begin to hover about you. My precious boy, the people who I adore are those who are willing and trying to live the ‘Golden Rule’ way of life…. Greatness is needed much more than goodness. Greatness cannot and will not stoop to little things. Goodness is so flexible that it can and does adjust itself to anything that suits its needs. I hope my previous boy will run over the first opportunity….” Two file holes at top edge (lightly touching one word), light intersecting mailing folds (vertical fold to one letter of last name) and faint show-through of text, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
