American writer and diplomat (1819–1891) who, after a long and successful career as a poet, satirist, and essayist, served as minister to the court of Spain. Handwritten poem entitled The Secret, on a 4.5 x 7 off-white sheet. Lowell pens three stanzas of the poem, signed at the bottom, “J. R. Lowell, 11th Jan: 1890.” Lowell begins: “I have a fancy : how shall I bring it; Home to all mortals wherever they be ? Say it or sing it ? Shoe it or wing it, So it may outrun or outfly me, Merest cocoon-web whence it broke free ?” In fine condition, with a bit of light soiling to left side. R&R COA.
