ALS signed “John G. Whittier,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, January 18, 1869. Letter to George W. Ballock, president of the Burns Club of Washington, DC, in part: "I thank the Club, represented by thee, for remembering me on the occasion of its annual Festival. Though I have never been able to trace my ancestry to the Land of Lakes, I have, (and I know it is saying a great deal), a Scotchman's love for the Poet whose fame deepens and broadens with years. The world has never known a truer singer. We may criticise his rustic verse, and compare his brief and simple lyrics with the works of men 'longer scrolls and loftier lyres'; but, after rendering to Wordsworth, Tennyson, and Browning the homage which the intellect owes to genius, we turn to Burns if not with awe and reverence, with a feeling of personal interest and affection. We admire others, we love him. As the day of his birth comes round I take down his well-worn volume in grateful commemoration, and feel that I am communing with one, when living, I could have loved as much for his true manhood and native nobility of soul as for those wonderful songs of his which shall sing themselves forever." In fine condition, with small splits to edges. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Whittier's hand.
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