Text: Edgar Allan Poe to Joseph C. Passmore — February 14, 1840 (LTR-090a)

Philadelphia Feb. 14. 1840

Dr. Sir,

I owe you an apology for not sooner replying to your favor of the 23d Jan. in which your propose to furnish a series of papers for the “Gent's Magazine.” An unusual press of business will, I hope, plead my excuse.

I have no doubt whatever that the articles mentioned would prove of high interest — a perusal of “The Lectures” has convinced us of that — but we are forced, at present, for many reasons, to decline allowing compensation, except in very rare cases, where the name of the writer is well known.

We cannot hope, of course, that you will send us your communications gratis — and just now it is not our policy to pay for them.

Very respy
Yr Ob St
Edgar A Poe