Author of The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table and the poems Old Ironsides and The Chambered Nautilus, among others. ALS signed “O. W. Holmes,” one page, 4.5 x 7, November 1, 1887. Letter declining a reading engagement. In full, “I am obliged to write briefly on account of my eyes which are in trouble. I am sorry that I do not feel able to accept your polite invitation to read at New York. I have thought it best to decline all invitations to lecture or read at a distance from my home for reasons which seem to me almost imperative.” In fine condition, with small tape remnant to lower left. R&R COA.