Creator
Charles N. Elliot
Recipient
John Muir
Preview
Transcription
[letterhead]August 9th, 1912.Dear Mr. Muir,I am at a loss how to adequately express my appreciation of your gift of "Stickeen," which has just reached me. I would that I might in some more tangible way than words, show you how deeply your delicate kindness affects me. I have always loved your story of the little dog companion of your dangerous Alaskan adventure, and the book containing it--a gift from its writer will ever be one of my most prized possessions. As I have said, I wish it were possible to show my appreciation in some other way than a new letter, but I cannot in any way give you the pleasure your act has given me. So must remain in your debt not alone for this gift but for your good letter, your inscription in "My First Summer in the Sierra" and the perennial pleasure and help you writings bring to me. You see I am hopelessly in your debt.Regarding "Stickeen" not alone to you is his little dog-soul immortal, but your touching tale has made him a member of that immortal animal company to which belongs "Rab and His Friends," "Black Beauty" and others whose soul-workings have been revealed to us by sympathetic human eyes & pens.I had intended writing you for one more favor, which I now hesitate to ask, in view of your generosity, but feel impelled to risk troubling you, though I hope to be forgiven. I noted in a New York paper that you had written an appreciation of Mr. E. H. Harriman, published by Doubleday, Page & Co. for distribution to public libraries only, not obtainable by purchase at the bookstore or elsewhere. I had our library obtain a copy for their shelves and have it before me as I write, but I would like a copy of my very own, not only because of its author, but also because of its subject. Mr. Harriman always seemed to me one of America's real noblemen. If I could buy the book I would not ask what I do, but, under the circumstances, may I hope that you will write the publishers to send me a copy? If there is any reason why this is not to your liking, forgive me and disregard my request.I enclose a copy of my daughter's "Class Poem" which is an exact expression of the sweet child herself. The thoughts are all her own, and while the composition lacks artistic finish, it is interesting as the expression of a sweet, beautiful & unspoiled nature.Again thanking you and with affectionate regards, ever faithfully yoursCharles N. Elliot.05245
Location
Portland, Ore.
Date Original
1912 Aug 9
Source
Original letter dimensions: 28 x 21.5 cm.
Resource Identifier
muir20_1169-let.tif
File Identifier
Reel 20, Image 1169
Copyright Status
Copyright status unknown
Copyright Statement
Some letters written to John Muir may be protected by the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.). Transmission or reproduction of materials protected by copyright beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the copyright owners. Responsibility for any use rests exclusively with the user.
Owning Institution
The Bancroft Library, University of California at Berkeley. Please contact this institution directly to obtain copies of the images or permission to publish or use them beyond educational purposes.
Page Number
Page 1
Keywords
John Muir, correspondence, letters, author, writing, naturalist, California, correspondent, mail, message, post, exchange of letters, missive, notes, epistle
