Author and inventor (1835-1925) who served as an assistant secretary to Lincoln during his first term, signing most land grants on his behalf; he later wrote books for children. ALS signed “W. O. Stoddard,” one page both sides, 5.5 x 8.5, October 12, 1894. Letter to Charles Scott in New Jersey, in part: "In reply to your questions: I. 'What is the mission of a novel?'—The novel is but the modern, expanded form of the parable,—an agent for conveying all sorts of cargo. II. 'What is my conscious aim in writing?'—The sooner that a sportsman has, to shoot straight and bring down whatever game I am after—the varieties of game are many. III. 'My strongest work? My favorite?'—No favoritism allowed, but my best work is not fiction, it is my 'Life of Lincoln'…IV. 'Method of work?' As much thought, study, research, as may be, before putting pen on paper. When writing begins, a book is half done.—Even in a book for boys, the utmost care as to accuracy in any historical, topographical, or other detail." In fine condition.
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