Eminent American writer (1809–1894) best known for his collection The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table and the much-anthologized poem ‘The Chambered Nautilus.’ ALS signed “O. W. Holmes,” one page, 5 x 6, November 18, 1884. Letter to editor Richard Watson Gilder. In part: “I have tried to get at the date of the Daguerreotype. but I cannot find any evidence as yet. It was taken by Southworth, when he was in Tremont Row, but I find he was there from 1842 to 1861 and perhaps later.” In very good condition, with moderate overall toning, some scattered foxing, and a couple brushes to the ink. Accompanied by an original unsigned carte-de-visite bust portrait of Holmes, by Warren of Boston. RR Auction COA.