Text: Edgar Allan Poe to Colonel Sylvanus Thayer — March 10, 1831 (LTR-030)

New York March 10th 1831.

Sir,

Having no longer any ties which can bind me to my native country — no prospects — nor any friends — I intend by the first opportunity to proceed to Paris with the view of obtaining, thro’ the interest of the Marquis de La Fayette, an appointment (if possible) in the Polish Army. In the event of the interference of France in behalf of Poland this may easily be effected — at all events it will be my only feasible plan of procedure.

The object of this letter is respectfully to request that you will give me such assistance as may lie in your power in furtherance of my views.

A certificate of “standing” in my class is all that I have any right to expect. Any thing farther — a letter to a friend in Paris — or to the Marquis — would be a kindness which I should never forget.

Most respectfully

Yr. Obt St
Edgar A Poe

Col: S. Thayer
Supt U.S.M.A.