[page 754:]

X. Griswold's Power of Attorney From Mrs. Clemm For the Publication of Poe's Works

To all to whom these presents shall come — Know ye

Whereas I the undersigned, Maria Clemm, am the sole owner and lawful possessor of the writings and Literary Remains of the late Edgar A. Poe.

And whereas it is desirable that his works both in prose and poetry should be published in connection in a uniform Edition. And whereas it was the express wish and injunction of the Author before his death that Dr. Rufus W. Griswold should compile and edit the same in case of their publication.

Now therefore this Indenture witnesseth, that I have placed said writings in the hands of the said Dr. R. W. Griswold for the purpose of such compilation, editing and publication as aforesaid.

And I do hereby constitute and appoint him my true and lawful attorney and agent to make such contract with a publisher or publishers and others, in my name, as may be necessary and as he may deem proper for the purpose of consummating in each and every particular the object aforesaid — hereby ratifying all that he has done or may lawfully do in these premises.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of October one thousand eight hundred and forty nine.

Signed Sealed and delivered

MARIA CLEMM   

in presence of
  [No witnesses]

State of New York

City of Brooklyn Kings County Gr: On this 20th day of October 1849, personally appeared before me Mrs. Maria Clemm to me known to be the same individual described in and who executed the within Power of Attorney, and acknowledged the execution thereof by her for the uses and purposes therein expressed

S. D. LEWIS  
Commr. of Deeds(1)

[[Footnotes]]

[The following footnote appears at the bottom of page 754:]

(1)  Original Ms., Richard Gimbel Collection. “Stella's” husband drew up the power of attorney.