Text: J. W. Ostrom, B. R. Pollin, and J. A. Savoye, “Chapter 01,” The Collected Letters of Edgar Allan Poe — Vol. I: 1824-1845 (2008), pp. 1-74 (This material is protected by copyright)

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Letter 1 — 1824, November 17 [CL-3] Poe and John Lyle (Richmond, VA) to the Governor and Council of Virginia (Richmond, VA):

To his Excellency the Governor & Council of Virg^a

Gentlemen

At the request of the members of the Richmond Junior Volunteers we beg leave to solicit your permission for them to retain the arms which they lately were permitted to draw from the Armory. We are authorized to say that each Individual will not only pledge himself to take proper care of them, but we ourselves will promise to attend strictly to the order in which they are kept by the Company —

Richmond 17^th Nov^r 1824

Letter 2 — 1824, November 23 [CL-4] Poe and John Lyle (Richmond, VA) to Peter V. Daniel (Richmond, VA):

M^r Daniel

Sir

Be so good as to ask the Council for the paper we mentioned to you on Saturday. Our case is this. We had given up our arms to D^r Adams, according to promise when you told us we might keep them until called for by the Executive[.] Immediately upon hearing this we returned and asked D^r Adams for them again. He told us if we brought a communication from the Council stating that we might keep them until called for that he would return them to us without sending them to the Armory otherwise they would immediately be returned to [page 2] the Armory. We applied to you, you said you could not give us such a note, without the consent of the Council —

We beg that you would obtain this for us if possible

And we shall ever remain

23^rd Nov^r 1824

Letter 3 — 1826, May 25 [CL-7] Poe (University of Virginia) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

University. May 1826

Dear Sir,

I this morning received the clothes you sent me, viz an [sic] uniform coat, six yards of striped cloth for pantaloons & four pair of socks — The coat is a beautiful one & fits me exactly — I thought it best not to write ‘till I received the clothes — or I should have written before this — You have heard no doubt of the disturbances in College — Soon after you left here the Grand Jury met and put the Students in a terrible fright — so much so that the lectures were unattended — and those whose names were upon the Sheriff's list — travelled off into the woods & mountains — taking their beds & provisions along with them — there were about 50 on the list — so you may suppose the College was very well thinn’d — this was the first day of the fright — the second day, “A proclamation” was issued by the faculty forbidding “any student under pain of a major punishment to leave his dormitory between the hours of 8 & 10 A M — (at which time the Sheriffs would be about) or in any way to resist the lawful authority of the Sheriffs” — This order however was very little attended to — as [page 6:] the fear of the Faculty could not counterbalance that of the Grand Jury — most of the “indicted” ran off a second time into the woods and upon an examination the next morning by the Faculty — Some were reprimanded — some suspended — [page 2] and one expelled — James Albert Clarke from Manchester (I went to school with him at Burke's) was suspended for two months, Armstead Carter from this neighbourhood, for the remainder of the session — And Thomas Barclay for ever — There have >>been<< several fights since you were here — One between Turner Dixon, and Blow from Norfolk excited more interest than any I have seen — for a common fight is so trifling an occurrence that no notice is taken of it — Blow got much the advantage in the scuffle — but Dixon posted him in very indecent terms — upon which the whole Norfolk party rose in arms — & nothing was talked off for a week, but Dixon's charge, & Blow's explanation — every pillar in the University was white with scratched paper — Dixon made <an> a physical attack upon Arthur Smith one of Blow's Norfolk friends — and a “very fine fellow” — he struck him with a large stone on one side of his head — whereupon Smith drew a pistol (which are all the fashion here) and had it not miss d’ [sic] fire, would have put an end to the controversy — but so it was — it did miss fire — and the matter has since been more peaceably settled — as the Proctor engaged a Magistrate to bind the whole forces on both sides — over to the peace — Give my love to Ma & Miss Nancy — & all my friends< — & >

Will you be so good as to send me a copy of the Historiæ of Tacitus — it is a small volume — also some more soap —

Letter 4 — 1826, September 21 [CL-8] Poe (University of Virginia) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

University. Septem^r 21^rst 1826

Dear Sir,

The whole college has been put in great consternation by the prospect of an examination — There is to be a general one on the first of December, which will occupy the time of the students till the fifteenth — the time for breaking up —

It has not yet been determined whether there will be any diplomas, or doctor's degrees given — but I should hardly think there will be any such thing, as this is only the second year of the institution & in other colleges three and four years are required in order to take a degree — that is, that time is supposed to be necessary — altho they sometimes confer them before — if the applicants are qualified —

Tho’ it will hardly be fair to examine those who have only been here one session, with those who have been here two — and some of whom have come from other colleges — still I suppose I shall have to stand my examination with the rest —

I have been studying a great deal in order to be prepared, and dare say I shall come off as well as the rest of them, that is — if I don’t get frightened — Perhaps you will have some business up here about that time, and then you can judge for yourself —

[page 2] They have nearly finished the Rotunda — The pillars of the Portico are completed and it greatly improves the appearance of the whole — The books are removed into the library — and we have a very fine collection[.]

We have had a great many fights up here lately — The faculty expelled Wickliffe last night for general bad conduct — but more especially for biting one of the student's arms with whom he was fighting — I saw the whole affair — it took place before my door — Wickliffe was much the strongest but not content with that — after getting the other completely in his power, he began to bite — I saw the [page 9:] arm afterwards — and it was really a serious matter — It was bitten from the shoulder to the elbow — and it is likely that pieces of flesh as large as my hand will be obliged to be cut out — He is from Kentucky — the same one that was in suspension when you were up here some time ago — Give my love to Ma and Miss Nancy — I remain,

Letter 5 — 1827, March 19 [CL-12] Poe (Richmond, VA) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Richmond Monday

Sir,

After my treatment on yesterday and what passed between us this morning, I can hardly think you will be surprised at the contents of this letter. My determination is at length taken — to leave your house and indeavor [sic] to find some place in this wide world, where I will be treated — not as you have treated me —

This is not a hurried determination, but one on which I have long considered — and having so considered my resolution is unalterable — You may perhaps think that I have flown off in a passion, & that I am already wishing to return; But not so — I will give you the reasons which have actuated me, and then judge —

Since I have been able to think on any subject, my thoughts have aspired, and they have been taught by you to aspire, to eminence in public life — this cannot be attained without a good Education, such a one I cannot obtain at a Primary school —

[page 2] A collegiate Education therefore was what I most ardently desired, and I had been led to expect that it would at some future time be granted — but in a moment of caprice — you have blasted my hope <sed> because forsooth I disagreed with you in an opinion, which opinion I was forced to express —

Again, I have heard you say (when you little thought I was listening <)> and therefore must have said it in earnest) that you had no affection for me —

You have moreover ordered me to quit your house, and are continually upbraiding me with eating the bread of Idleness, when you yourself <m> were the only person to remedy the evil by placing me to some business —

You take delight in exposing me before those whom you think likely to advance my interest in this world — [page 11:]

You suffer me to be subjected to the whims & caprice, not only of your white family, but the [page 3] complete authority of the blacks — these grievances I could not submit to; and I am gone[.] I request that you will send me my trunk containing my clothes & books — and if you still have the least affection for me, As the last cal[l] I shall make on your bounty, To prevent the fulfillment of the Prediction you this morning expressed, send me as much money as will defray <my> the expences of my passage to some of the Northern cit[i]es & then support me for one month, by whic[h] time I shall be enabled to place myself [in] some situation where I may not only o[bt]ain a livelihood, but lay by a sum which one day or another will support me at the University — Send my trunk &c to the Court-house Tavern, send me I entreat you some money immediately — as I am in the greatest necessity — If you fail to comply with my request — I tremble for the consequence

It depends upon yourself if hereafter you see or hear from me[.]

Letter 6 — 1827, March 20 [CL-13] Poe (Richmond, VA) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Richmond Tuesday

Dear Sir,

Be so good as to send me my trunk with my clothes — I wrote to you on yesterday explaining my reasons for leaving — I suppose by my not receiving either my trunk, or an answer to my letter, that you did not receive it — I am in the greatest necessity, not having tasted food since Yesterday morning. I have no where to sleep at night, but roam about the Streets — I am nearly exhausted — I beseech you as you wish not your prediction concerning me to be fulfilled — to send me without delay my trunk containing my clothes, and to lend if you will not give me as much money as will defray the expence of my passage to <bos> Boston (.$12,) and a little to support me there untill [sic] I shall be enabled to engage in some business — I sail on Saturday — A letter will be received by me at the Court House Tavern, where be so good as to send my trunk —

Give my love to all at home — [page 13:]

I have not one cent in the world to provide any food

Letter 7 — 1828, December 1 [CL-16] Poe (Fort Moultrie, Charleston, SC) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Fort Moultrie, Charleston H^r

December 1^rst 1828.

Dear Sir,

The letter of Lieut J. Howard left by M^r John, O, Lay [sic] for your perusal will explain the cause of my writing from Fort Moultrie.

Your note addressed to M^r Lay, & inclosed by him to Lieut: Howard was handed over by the latter to myself. In that note what chiefly gave me concern was hearing of your indisposition — I can [page 14:] readily see & forgive the suggestion which prompted you to write “he had better remain as he is until the termination of his enlistment.” It was perhaps under the impression that a military life was one after my own heart, and that it might be possible (although contrary to the Regulations of our Army) to obtain a commission for one who had not received his education at West Point, & who, from his age, was excluded that Academy; but I could not help thinking that you beleived [sic] me degraded & disgraced, and that any thing were preferable to my returning home & entailing on yourself a portion of my infamy: But, at no period of my life, have I regarded myself with a deeper Satisfaction — or did my heart swell with more honourable pride — The time may come (if at all it will come speedily) when much that appears of a doubtful nature will be explained away, and I shall have no hesitation in appearing among my former [page 2] connexions — at the present I have no such intention, and nothing, short of your absolute commands, should deter me from my purpose.

I have been in the American army as long as suits my ends or my inclination, and it is now time that I should leave it — To this effect I made known my circumstances to Lieut Howard who promised me my discharge solely upon a re-conciliation with yourself — In vain I told him that your wishes for me (as your letters assured me) were, and had always been those of a father & that you were ready to forgive even the worst offences — He insisted upon my writing you & that if a re-conciliation could be effected he would grant me my wish. This was advised in the goodness of his heart & with a view of serving me in a double sense — He has always been kind to me, and, in many respects, reminds me forcibly of yourself.

The period of an Enlistment is five years — the prime of my life would be wasted — I shall be driven to more decided measures if you refuse to assist me.

You need not fear for my future prosperity — I am altered from what you knew me, & am no longer a boy tossing about on the world without aim or consistency — I feel that within me which will make me fulfil your highest wishes & only beg you to suspend your judgement until you hear of me again. [page 15:]

You will perceive that I speak confidently — but when did [page 3] ever Ambition exist or Talent prosper without prior conviction of success? I have thrown myself on the world, like the Norman conqueror on the shores of Britain &, by my avowed assurance of victory, have destroyed the fleet which could alone cover my retreat — I must either conquer or die — succeed or be disgraced.

A letter addressed to Lieut: J. Howard assuring him of your reconciliation with myself (which you have never yet refused) & desiring my discharge would be all that is necessary — He is already acquainted with you from report & the high character given of you by M^r Lay.

Write me once more if you do really forgive me [and] let me know how my Ma preserves her health, and the concerns of the family since my departure.

Pecuniary assistance I do not desire — unless of your own free & unbiassed choice — I can struggle with any difficulty. My dearest love to Ma — it is only when absent that we can tell the value of such a friend — I hope she will not let my wayward disposition wear away the love she used to have for me.

P.S. We are now under orders to sail for Old Point Comfort, and will arrive there before your answer can be received — Your address then will be to Lieut: J. Howard, Fortress Monroe — the same for myself.

Letter 8 — 1828, December 22 [CL-17] Poe (Fortress Monroe, Old Point Comfort, VA) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Fortress Monroe (Va)

December 22^d 1828 —

Dear Sir;

I wrote you shortly before leaving Fort Moultrie & am much hurt at receiving no answer. Perhaps my letter has not reached you & under that supposition I will recapitulate its contents. It was chiefly to sollicit [sic] your interest in freeing me from the Army of the U. S. in which, (as M^r Lay's letter from Lieut Howard informed you) — I am at present a soldier. I begged that you would suspend any judgement you might be inclined to form, upon many untoward circumstances, until you heard of me again — & begged you to give my dearest love to Ma [page 17:] & solicit her not to let my wayward disposition wear away the affection she used to have for me. I mentioned that all that was necessary to obtain my discharge from the army was your consent in a letter to Lieut J. Howard, who has heard of you by report, & the high character given you by M^r Lay; this being all that I asked at your hands, I was hurt at your declining to answer my letter. Since arriving at Fort Moultrie [page 2] Lieut Howard has given me an introduction to Col: James House of the 1^rst Arty to whom I was before personally known only as a soldier of his regiment. He spoke kindly to me, told me that he was personally acquainted with my Grandfather Gen^l Poe, with yourself & family, & reassured me of my immediate discharge upon your consent. It must have been a matter of regret to me, that when those who were strangers took such deep interest in my welfare, <that> you who called me your son should refuse me even the common civility of answering a letter. If it is your wish to forget that I have been your son I am too proud to remind you of it again — I only beg you to remember that you yourself cherished the cause of my leaving your family — Ambition. If it has not taken the channel you wished it, it is not the less certain of its object. Richmond & the U. States were too narrow a sphere & the world shall be my theatre —

As I observed in the letter which you have not received — (you would have answered it if you had) you believe me degraded — but <th> do not believe it — There is that within my heart which has no connection with degradation — I can walk among [page 3] infection & be uncontaminated. There never was any period of my life when my bosom swelled with a deeper satisfaction, of myself & (except in the injury which I may have done to your feelings) — of my conduct — My father do not throw me aside as degraded[.] I will be an honor to your name.

Give my best love to my Ma & to all friends —

If you determine to abandon me — here take [I my] farewell — Neglected — I will be doubly [ambi]tious, & the world shall hear of the son whom you have thought unworthy of your notice. But if you let the love you bear me, outweigh the offence which I have given — then write me my father, quickly. My desire is for the present to be [page 18:] freed from the Army — Since I have been in it my character is one that will bear scrutiny & has merited the esteem of my officers — but I have accomplished my own ends — & I wish to be gone — Write to Lieut Howard — & to Col: House, desiring my discharge — & above all to myself.

Lieut Howard's direction is — Lieut J. Howard, For^ss Monroe, Col: House's Col: Jas House — F^ss Monroe — my own the same —

[page 4] My dearest love to Ma & all my friends

Letter 9 — 1829, February 4 [CL-20] Poe (Fortress Monroe, Old Point Comfort, VA) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Fortress Monroe

February 4^th 1829.

Dear Sir,

I wrote you some time ago from this place but have as yet received no reply. Since that time I wrote to John M^c Kenzie [sic] desiring him to see you personally & desire for me, of you, that you would interest yourself in procuring me a cadet's appointment at the Military Academy.

To this likewise I have received no answer, for which I can in no manner account, as he wrote me before I wrote to him & seemed to take an interest in my welfare.

I made the request to obtain a cadets’ appointment partly because I know that — (if <y> my age should prove no obstacle as I have since ascertained it will not) the appointment could easily be obtained >>either<< by your personal acquaintance with M^r Wirt — or by the recommendation of General Scott, or even of the officers residing at Fortress Monroe & partly because in making the request you would at once see to what direction my “future views & expectations” were inclined.

You can have no idea of the immense [page 2] advantages which my present station in the army would give me in the appointment of a cadet — it would be an unprecedented case in the American army, & having already passed thro the practical part even of the higher partion [sic] of the Artillery arm, my cadetship would only be considered as a necessary form which I >>am<< positive I could run thro’ in 6 months.

This is the view of the case which many at this place have taken in regard to myself. If you are willing to assist me it can now be effectually done — if not (as late circumstances have induced me to believe) I must remain contented until chance or other friends shall render me that assistance. [page 20:]

Under the certain expectation of kind news from home I have been led into expences which my present income will not support. I hinted as much in my former letter, and am at present in an uncomfortable situation[.] I have known the time when you would not have suffered me long to remain so.

[page 3] Whatever fault you may find with me I have not been ungrateful for past services but you blame me for the part which I have taken without considering the powerful impulses which actuated me — You will remember how much I had to suffer upon my return from the University. I never meant to offer a shadow of excuse for the infamous conduct of myself & others at that place.

It was however at the commencement of that year that I got deeply entangled in difficulty which all my after good conduct in the close of the session (to which all there can testify) could not clear away. I had never been from home before for any length of time. I say again I have no excuse to offer for my [con]duct except the common one of youth[fulnes]s — but I repeat that I was unable [if] my life had depended upon it to bear the consequences of that conduct in the taunts & abuse that followed it even from those who had been my warmest friends.

I shall wait with impatience for an [page 4] answer to this letter for upon it depend a great many of the circumstances of my future life — the assurance of an honourable & highly successful course in my own country — or the prospect — no certainty of an exile forever to another[.]

Give my love to Ma —

Notes: John Mackenzie, not “M^c Kenzie,” was the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Mackenzie of Richmond, who following Mrs. Poe's death adopted Edgar's sister, Rosalie Poe. No extant letter from John Mackenzie to Poe is known, but the present letter clearly indicates one [page 21:] (CL-18). There appears to be no further correspondence between these two men at this time. For one 1843 item from Poe to “MacKenzie,” probably John Mackenzie, see LTR-159. William Wirt (1772-1834) was the author of a biography of Patrick Henry (printed in 1817) and had been Attorney General of the United States from 1817 until the end of J. Q. Adams’ presidency, early in 1829. For Poe's later contact with him, see Wirt to Poe, May 11, 1829 (CL-22) and LTR-11. General Winfield Scott, a friend of the Allans, had known the young Poe in Richmond. Poe's hint for financial assistance appeared in LTR-7. For the reference to the difficulties at the University of Virginia, see LTR-28. Poe is apparently threatening to leave the army without permission, and therefore be forced to live as an exile in another country. For a similar threat to join the Polish army, see LTR-30. With the sole exception of his early visit to England with the Allans, Poe almost certainly never left the United States.

Source: color photograph of the original MS (4 pp.) in the Valentine Museum. The address, written in the middle of text on the verso of the second leaf, reads: “John Allan Esq^r / Richmond / V^a,” with the postmark, “OLD PT COMF VA, Feb. 9.” It is docketed by John Allan, “E A Poe / Feby 4^th, 1829.” Bracketed readings on page 3 represent tears in the MS. The missing part of the word “youth[fulnes]s” is suggested by the context, the remnant of the “f” and the apparent number of missing letters, with the word “youth” ending one line, with a hyphen, and the rest of the word beginning the next. The error of “partion” is obviously a fault in Poe's shaping of the word, initially intended to be “part” with the end “ion” squeezed in, to constitute “portion.” John Allan had not answered Poe's last two letters (CL-17 and CL-19), nor is there any evidence that he replied to the present one.

Letter 10 — 1829, March 10 [CL-21] Poe (Fortress Monroe, Old Point Comfort, VA) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Fortress Monroe.

March 10^th 1829.

My dear Pa,

I arrived on the point this morning in good health, and if it were not for late occurrences, should feel much happier than I have for a long [page 22:] time. I have had a fearful warning, & have hardly ever known before what distres[s] was.

The Colonel has left the point this morning [for] Washington to congratulate the President [elect] so I have not yet seen him. He will ret[urn] on Thursday >>week<< next[.] In the mean time [I] [a]m employing mys[elf] in preparing for the [tests] [w]hich will engage my [at]tention at W. Point [if I] [s]hould be so fortunate [as] to obtain an appoint[ment.] [I] am anxious to retri[ev]e my good name wi[th my] [frie]nds & especially yo[ur] good opinion.

[I] think a letter of reco[mm]endation from Ju[dge Barbour,] [Maj]or Gibbon, & Col: P[res]ton forwarded to [Washington] [with] a letter to M^r [Pa]tterson requesting [that if] [nothing] would prev[ent it] I may be r[egarded as] [a Bos]tonian.

[Here probably one line of MS was burned off.] [page 2] me in the morning of my departure I went to your room to tell you good bye — but, as you were asleep, I would not disturb you.

My respects to M^r & M^rs Galt & M^r W^m Galt.

Letter 11 — 1829, May 20 [CL-27] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore.

May 20. 1829

Dear Pa,

I received your letter this morning enclosing a draft for $100 for which liberal allowance you will be sure that I feel grateful. [page 24:]

The draft which I drew at M^r Warwick's suggestion will of course be laid aside —

I have succeeded in finding Grandmother & my relations — but the fact of my Grandfather's having been Quater [sic] Master Gener[al] of the whole U. S. Army during the Revolutionary war is clearly established — but its being a well known fact at Washington, obviates the necessity of obtaining the certificates you mentioned.

<Not> Presuming upon M^r Wirt's former acquaintance, I introduced myself personally & for a first attempt at self introduction succeeded wonderfully — He treated me with great politeness, and [page 2] invited me to call & see him frequently while I stay in Baltimore — I have called upon him several times.

I have been introduced to many gentlemen of high standing in the city, who were formerly acquainted with my grandfather, & have altogether been treated very handsomely.

Give my best love to Miss Valentine & all at home —

Letter 12 — 1829, before May 27 [CL-28] Poe (Heiskell's Indian Queen Hotel, Philadelphia, PA) to Isaac Lea (Philadelphia, PA):

Dear Sir,

I should have presumed upon the politeness of M^r R. Walsh for a personal introduction to yourself, but was prevented by his leaving town the morning after my arrival — You will be so kind as to consider this as a literary introduction until his return from N. Y.

I send you, for your tenderest consideration, a poem —

You will oblige me by placing this among the number.

But not to detain you with my nonsense it were as well to speak of “the poem”.

It's [sic] title is “Al Aaraaf” — from the Al Aaraaf of the Arabians, a medium between Heaven & Hell where men suffer no punishment, but yet do not attain that tranquil & even happiness which they suppose to be the characteristic of heavenly enjoyment[.]

[page 2] I have placed this “Al Aaraaf” in the celebrated star discovered by Tycho Brahe which appeared & dissapeared [sic] so suddenly. It is represented as a messenger star of the Deity, &, at the time of its discovery by Tycho, as on an embassy to our world. One of the peculiarities of Al Aaraaf is that, even after death, — those who make choice of the star as their residence do not enjoy immortality — but, after a second life of high excitement, sink into forgetfulness. & death — This idea is taken from Job — “I would not live <them> always — let me alone”. I have imagined that some would not be pleased (excuse the bull) with an immortality even of bliss. The poem commences with a sonnet (illegitimate) a la mode de Byron in his prisoner of Chillon. But this is a digression — I have imagined some well known characters of the age of the star's appearance, as transferred to Al Aaraaf — viz Michael Angelo — and others — of these Michael Angelo as yet, alone appears. I send you parts 1^rst 2^d & 3^d. I have reasons for wishing not to publish the 4^th at present — for its character depends in a measure upon the success or failure of the others —

As these 3 parts will be insufficient for a [page 3] volume — I have wished to publish some minor poems with Al Aaraaf — But as the work would depend for character upon the principal poem it is needless, at present to speak of the rest.

If the poem is published, succeed or not, I am “irrecoverably a poet.” But to your opinion I leave it, and as I should be proud of the honor of your press, failing in that I will make no other application.

I should add a circumstance which, tho’ no justification of a failure, is yet a boast in success — the poem is by a minor & truly written under extraordinary disadvantages.

I am staying at Heiskell's.

I cannot refrain from adding that M^r Wirt's voice is in my favor. [page 28:]

Letter 13 — 1829, May 29 [CL-30] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore May 29^th

1829

Dear Pa,

I am now going to make a request different from any I have ever yet made.

As I wrote you, some time since, I have been several times to visit M^r Wirt, who has treated me with great kindness & attention. I sent him, for his opinion, a day or two ago, a poem which I have written since I left home — & in the letter which I now enclose you have his [page 30:] opinion upon its merits — From such a man as M^r Wirt, the flattering character he has given of the work, will surely be to you a recommendation in its favor.

In the conclusion of the letter you will see that he advises me to “get a personal introduction to M^r Walsh” the editor of the American Quaterly [sic] Review & get his interest in my favor — that interest, and his highest encomiums on the poem are already obtained — as Editor of the Review he promises to notice it which will assure it, if not of popularity, of success —

Under these circumstances, I have thought [page 2] it my duty to write to you on the subject — Believing you to be free from prejudice, I think you will aid me, if you see cause; At my time of life there is much in being before the eye of the world — if once noticed I can easily cut out a path to reputation — It can certainly be of no disadvantage as it will not, even for a moment, interfere with other objects which I have in view.

I am aware of the difficulty of getting a poem published in this country — M^r Wirt & M^r Walsh have advised me of that — but the difficulty should be no object, with a proper aim in view.

If M^ssrs Carey, Lea, & Carey, should decline publishing (as I have no reason to think they will not — they having invariably declined it with all our American poets) that is upon their own risk the request I have to make is this — that you will give me a letter to M^ssrs Carey, Lea, & Carey saying that if in publishing the poem “Al Aaraaf” [page 3] they shall incur any loss — you will make it good to them.

The cost of publishing the work, in a style equal to any of our American publications, will at the extent be $100 — This then, of course, must be the limit of any loss supposing not a single copy of the work to be sold — It is more than probable that the work will be profitable & that I may gain instead of lose, even in a pecuniary way —

I would remark, in conclusion that I have long given up Byron as a model — for which, I think, I deserve some credit. [page 31:]

If you will help me in this matter I will be always grateful for your kindness.

If you conclude upon giving me a trial please enclose me the letter to Mess^rs Carey, Lea, & Carey — I shall wait anxiously for your answer —

Give my love to Miss Valentine & all

[page 4] Please present my thanks to Col: Preston for his obliging letter.

Letter 14 — 1829, June 25 [CL-34] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore

June 25, 1829

Dear Pa,

I wrote you on the 10^th of June in reply to yours of the 8^th in which I urged my reasons in further support of my request to be allowed to publish a poem — & I did intend, but forgot to say, in conclusion, that as I had submitted the question of its being expedient to your decision — I should by no means publish it without your approbation — I say this now, because I fear from your silence that I have offended you in pressing my request any farther.

The poem is now in the hands of Carey, Lea & Carey and I am only waiting for your answer to withdraw it or not — It was my wish immediately upon receiving your letter to return home thro’ Washington & ascertain the fate of my application — <of> which I am induced to think has succeeded — as there were, I understand several rejected — This I will do immediately upon hearing [page 2] from you.

In whatever errors I may have been led into, I would beg you to judge me impartially & to believe that I have acted from the single motive of trying to do something for myself — & with your assistance [page 33:] I trust I may — I have left untried no efforts to enter at W. Point & if I fail I can give you evidence that it is no fault of mine — but I hope to succeed —

I am afraid you will think that I am trying to impose on your good nature & would not except under peculiar circumstances have applied to you for any more money — but it is only a little that I now want.

I will explain the matter clearly — A cousin of my own (Edward Mosher) robbed me at Beltzhoover's Hotel while I was asleep in the same room with him of all the money I had with me (about 46$) [page 3] of which I recovered $10 — by searching his pockets the ensuing night, when he acknowledged the theft — I have been endeavouring in vain to obtain the balance from him — he says he has not got it & begs me not to expose him — & for his wife's sake I will not. I have a letter from him referring to the subject, which I will show you on arriving in Richmond.

I have been moderate in my expences & $50 of the money which you sent me I applied in paying a debt contracted a[t] Old Point for my substitute, for [which] I gave my note — the money necessary if L^t Howard had not gone on furlough would have been only 12$ as a bounty — but when he & Col: House left I had to scuffle for myself — I paid $25 — & gave my note for $50 — in all 75$.

Since I have been in Baltimore I have learnt something concerning my descent which would have, I am afraid, no very favourable effect if known to the War Dep^t: [page 4] viz: that I am the grandson of General Benedict Arnold — but this there will be no necessity of telling —

[space reserved for address]

Give my best love to all my friends — I hope you will give me a favourable answer concerning my poem tho’ I will strictly abide by your decision.

Letter 15 — 1829, July 15 [CL-35] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore

July 15^th 1829

Dear Pa,

I have written you twice lately & have received no answer — I would not trouble you so often with my letters, but I am afraid that being up at the Byrd you might probably not have received them — I am very anxious to return home thro’ Washington where I have every hope of being appointed for Sep^r & besides by being detained at Baltimore I am incurring unecessary [sic] expense as Grandmother is not in a situation to give me any accomodation [sic] —

I sometimes am afraid that you are angry & perhaps you have reason to be — but if you will but >>put<< a little more confidence in me — I will endeavor to deserve it —

[page 2] I am sure no one can be more anxious, or would do more towards helping myself than I would — if I had any means of doing it — without your assistance, I have none — I am anxious to abide by your directions, if I knew what they were —

You would relieve me from a great deal of anxiety by writing me soon — I think I have already had my share of trouble for one so young —

Letter 16 — 1829, July 26 [CL-37] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore

July 26 — 1829 —

Dear Pa,

I received yours of the 19^th on the 22^d ult^o & am truly thankful for the money which you sent me, notwithstanding the taunt with which it was given “that men of genius ought not to apply to your aid” — It is too often their necessity to want that little timely assistance which would prevent such applications —

I did not answer your letter by return of mail on account of my departure for Washington the next morning — but before I proceed to tell the event of my application I think it my duty to say something concerning the accusations & suspicions which are contained in your letter —

As regards the substitute, the reason why I did not tell you that it would cost $75 — was that I could not possibly foresee so improbable >>an<< event — The bounty is $12 — & <unless> but for the absence of Col: House & L^t Howard at the time of my discharge it would have been all that I should have had to pay — The officer commanding a company can (if he pleases) enlist the first recruit who offers & muster him as a substitute for another, of course paying only the bounty of 12 $ but as L^t Howard & Col: House were both absent, this arrangement could not be effected — As I told you it would only cost me $12 I did not wish to make you think me imposing upon you — so upon a [page 37:] substitute, offering for $75 — I gave him $25 & gave him my note of hand for the balance — when you remitted me $100 — thinking I had more than I should want. I thought it my best opportunity of taking up my note — which I did.

[page 2] If you will take into consideration the length of time I have been from home, which was occasioned by my not hearing from you (& I was unwilling to leave the city without your answer, expecting it every day) & other expenses, you will find that it has been impossible for me to enter into any extravagancies or improper expense — even supposing I had not lost the $46 — the time which intervened between my letter & your answer in the first instance was 22 days — in the latter one month & 4 days — as I had no reason to suppose you would not reply to my letter as I was unconscious of having offended, it would have been imprudent to leave without your answer — this expense was unavoidable —

As regards the money which was stolen I have sent you the only proof in my possession a letter from Mosher — in which there is an acknowledgement of the theft — I have no other. On receiving your last letter, I went immediately to Washington, on foot, & have returned the same way, having paid away $40 for my bill & being unwilling to spend the balance when I might avoid it, until I could see what prospects were in view — I saw M^r Eaton, he addressed me by name, & in reply to my questions told me — “that of the 47 surplus, on the roll, which I mentioned in my former letters, 19 were rejected [9] dismissed & 8 resigned [”] — consequently there [page 3] was yet a surplus of 10 before me on the roll. On asking for my papers of recommendation, which might be of service elsewhere — he told me that in that case my application would be considered as withdrawn, which he strongly advised me not to do — saying that there were still hopes of my obtaining the appointment in Sep^r as during the encampment every year there were numerous resignations — if the number exceeded 10 I should be sure of the app^t without farther application in Sep^r if not I would at least be among the first on the next roll for the ensuing year — when of course my appointment was certain — when I mentioned that I feared my age would interfere he [page 38:] replied that 21 was the limit — that many entered at that time — & that I might call myself 21 until I was 22 — On leaving the office he called me back to endorse on my papers the name of my P. Office — I wrote Richmond. He said that I should certainly hear from him & that >>he<< regretted my useless trip to Washington — These are his precise words —

Having now explained every circumstance that seemed to require an explanation & shown that I have spared no exertions in the pursuit of my object. I write to you for information as to what course I must pursue — I would have returned home immediately but for the words [in] your letter “I am not particularly anxious to see you” — I know not how to interpret them[.]

[page 4] I could not help thinking that they amounted to a prohibition to return — if I had any means of support until I could obtain the appointment, I would not trouble you again — I am conscious of having offended you formerly — greatly — but I thought that had been forgiven. at least you told me so —

I know that I have done nothing since to deserve your displeasure —

[space reserved for address]

As regards the poem, I have offended only in asking your approbation — I can publish it upon the terms you mentioned — but will have no more to do with it without your entire approbation — I will wait with great anxiety for your answer — You must be aware how important it is that I sh[ould] hear from you soon — as I do not know how to ac[t.]

Letter 17 — 1829, July 28 [CL-38] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to Carey, Lea & Carey (Philadelphia, PA):

Baltimore July 28th 1829.

Messr^s Carey, Lea & Carey

Gentlemen,

Having made a better disposition of my poems than I had any right to expect, (inducing me to decline publication on my own account) I [page 40:] would thank you to return me the Mss: by <the gentleman who hands you this> — mail[.]

I should have been proud of having your firm for my publishers & would have preferred publishing, with your name, even at a disadvantage had my circumstances admitted of so doing.

Perhaps, at some future day, I may have the honor of your press, which I most sincerely desire —

M^r Lea, during our short interview, at your store, mentioned “the Atlantic Souvenir” and spoke of my attempting something for that work. I know nothing which could give me greater pleasure than to see any of my productions in so becoming a dress & in such good society as “The Souvenir” would ensure them — notwithstanding the assertions of M^r J^no Neal to the contrary, who now & then hitting, thro’ sheer impudence, upon a correct judgement in matters of authorship, is most unenviably ridiculous whenever he touches [page 2] the fine arts —

As I am unacquainted with the method of proceeding in offering any piece for acceptance (having been sometime absent from this country) would you, Gentlemen, have the kindness to set me in the right way —

Nothing could give me greater pleasure than any communication from Mess^rs Carey Lea & Carey —

Letter 18 — 1829, August 4 [CL-40] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore Aug: 4 — /29

Dear Sir,

I am unable to account for your not answering — if you are offended with me — I repeat that I have done nothing to deserve your displeasure. If you doubt what I say & think that I have neglected to use any exertions in the procuring my warrant — write yourself to M^r Eaton & he will tell you that more exertions could not have been — the app^t might have been obtained for June if the application had been made 2 months sooner & you will remember that I was under the impression that you were making exertions to obtain the situation for me, while I was at Old Point & so situated as to be unable to use any exertions of my own — On returning home nothing had been done — it is therefore unjust to blame me for a failure, after using every endeavour, when success was impossible rendered so by your own delay —

If you have not forgiven me for my former conduct — that is a different thing — but you told me that you had — I am however aware [page 42:] that I have many enemies at home who fancy it their interest to injure me in your estimation —

[page 2] By your last letter I understood that it was not your wish that I should return home — I am anxious to do so — but if you think that I should not — I only wish to know what course I shall pursue —

If you are determined to do nothing more in my behalf — you will at least do me the common justice to tell me so — I am almost sure of getting the app^t in Sep^r & certain at any rate of getting it in June. if I could manage until that time I would be no longer a trouble to you —

I think it no more than right that you should answer my letter —

Perhaps the time may come when you will find that I have not deserved 1/2 the misfortunes which have happened to me & that you suspected me unworthily[.]

Letter 19 — 1829, August 10 [CL-42] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore

August 10^th 1829.

[page 43:]

Dear Pa,

I received yours this morning which releived [sic] me from more trouble than you can well imagine — I was afraid that you were offended & although I knew that I had done nothing to deserve your anger, I was in a most uncomfortable situation — without one cent of money — in a strange place & so quickly engaged in difficulties after the serious misfortunes which I have just escaped — My grandmother is extremely poor & ill (paralytic) [.] My aunt Maria if possible still worse & Henry entirely given up to drink & unable to help himself, much less me —

I am unwilling to appear obstinate as regards the substitute so will say nothing more concerning it — only remarking that they will no longer enlist men for the residue of anothers’ [sic] enlistment as formerly, consequently my substitute was enlisted for 5 years not 3 —

I stated in my last letter (to which I refer you) that M^r Eaton gave me strong hopes for Sep^r at any <7> rate that the app^t could be obtained for June next — I can obtain decent board [page 2] lodging & washing with other expenses of mending &c for 5 & perhaps even for 4 1/2 $ per week —

If I obtain the app^t by the last of Sep^r the am^t of expense would be at most $30 — If I should be unfortunate & not obtain it >>until June<< I will not desire you to allow as much as that per week because by engaging for a longer period at a cheap boarding house I can do with much less — say even 10 even 8$ pr month — any thing with which you think it possible to exist — I am <not> not <as> so anxious of obtaining money from your good nature as of preserving your good will —

I am extremely anxious that you should believe that I have not attempted to impose upon you — I will in the meantime (if you wish it) write you often, but pledge myself to apply for no other assistance than what you shall think proper to allow —

I left behind me in Richmond a small trunk containing books & some letters — will you forward it on to Baltimore to the care of H. W. [page 44:] Bool J^r & if you think I may ask so much perhaps you [page 3] will put in it for me some few clothes as I am nearly without —

Give my love to Miss Valentine —

Letter 20 — 1829, October 30 [CL-46] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Balt^o: Oct: 30. 1829.

Dear Pa —

I received your letter this evening and am grieved that I can give you no positive evidence of my industry & zeal as regards the app^t at W. Point: unless you will write to M^r Eaton himself who well remembers me & the earnestness of my application.

But you are labouring under a mistake which I beg you to correct by reference to all my former letters — I stated that M^r Eaton told me that an app^t could be obtained by Sep^r provided there were a sufficient number rejected at the June examination & regretted that I had not made an earlier application — that at all events, with the strong recommendations I had brought that I should have an app^t at the next term which is in June next —

So far from having any doubts of my app^t at that time, I am as certain of obtaining it as I am of being alive —

If you find this statement to be incorrect then condemn me — otherwise acquit me of any intention to practise [sic] upon your good nature — which I now feel myself to be above —

It is my intention upon the receipt of your letter to go again to Washington &, tho’ contrary to the usual practice, I will get M^r Eaton to give me my letter of app^t now [page 2] — it will consist of an order to repair to W. P. in June for examination &c — & forward it to you that all doubts may be removed — I will tell him why I want it at present & I think he will give it. [page 46:]

I would have sent you the M. S. of my Poems long ago for your approval, but since I have collected them they have been continually in the hands of some person or another. & I have not had them in my own possession since Carey & Lea took them — I will send them to you at the first opportunity —

I am sorry that your letters to me have still with them a tone of anger as if my former errors were not forgiven — if I knew how to regain your affection God knows I would do any thing I could —

Letter 21 — 1829, October-November [CL-47] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Neal (Boston, MA):

I am young — not yet twenty — am a poet — if deep worship of all beauty can make me one — and wish to be so in the more common meaning of the word. I would give the world to embody one half the ideas afloat in my imagination. (By the way, do you remember — or did you ever read the exclamation of Shelley about Shakspeare? — ‘What a number of ideas must have been afloat before such an author could arise!’) I appeal to you as a man that loves the same beauty which I adore — the beauty of the natural blue sky and the sunshiny earth — there can be no tie more strong than that of brother for brother — it is not so much that they love one another, as that they both love the same parent — their affections are always running in the same direction — the same channel — and cannot help mingling.

I am and have been, from my childhood, an idler. It cannot therefore be said that

for I have no father — nor mother.

I am about to publish a volume of ‘Poems’ the greater part written before I was fifteen. Speaking about ‘Heaven,’ the editor of the Yankee says, ‘He might write a beautiful, if not a magnificent poem’ — (the very first words of encouragement I ever remember to have heard.) I am very certain that as yet I have not written either — but that I can, I will take oath — if they will give me time. [page 48:]

The poems to be published are ‘Al Aaraaf’ — ‘Tamerlane’ — one about four, the other about three hundred lines, with smaller pieces. ‘Al Aaraaf’ has some good poetry, and much extravagance, which I have not had time to throw away.

‘Al Aaraaf’ is a tale of another world — the star discovered by Tycho Brahe, which appeared and disappeared so suddenly — or rather, it is no tale at all. I will insert an extract, about the palace of its presiding Deity, in which you will see that I have supposed many of the lost sculptures of our world to have flown (in spirit) to the star ‘Al Aaraaf’ — a delicate place, more suited to their divinity.

[.... .]

Notes: John Neal (1793-1876) was the editor of the Yankee and Boston Literary Gazette, which was soon to merge with the New-England Galaxy (American Magazines, 1:355). In Baltimore, under the pseudonym of Jehu O’Cataract, Neal had been a member of the Delphian Club, the same group which Poe was partially to satirize in his Tales of the Folio Club (see TOM [T&S], 2:200). The present letter is essentially a reply to Neal's encouraging paragraph in the Yankee (September 1829), n.s. 3:168, in which he praised “Heaven” (the earlier title of “Fairyland”). Neal's comments have been widely reprinted, including Quinn, pp. 152-154; Carlson, The Recognition of EAP, pp. 3-4; The Poe Log, p. 98 and 100; and Walker, EAP, the Critical Heritage, pp. 66-69, 76. Poe's “volume of ‘Poems’ ” was Al Aaraaf, Tamerlane, and Minor Poems, published by Hatch & Dunning, Baltimore, 1829. The excerpts given by Neal, all taken from the versions of Poe's poems used in the edition just noted, included “Al Aaraaf,” part II, ll. 11-39 and part I, ll. 126-132; “Tamerlane,” sections 3-6 (omitting the first line of section 3 and the last four of section 5), section 11 and 23; and “To — — “ (“Should my early life seem ... ”), ll. 13-26. In addition to these excerpts, Poe misquotes Alexander Pope's “Epistle to Dr. Arbuthnot,” perhaps from memory — the correct quotation is: “I left no calling for this idle trade; / No duty broke, no father disobeyed” (ll. 30-31). For this and other references to Pope in Poe's writings, see Pollin, “Alexander Pope and His Works in the Writings of EAP,” EAP Review, 2:52-70. Poe's linking of the two great British poets derives from paragraphs 4-6 ending the Preface to Prometheus Unbound, in which Shelley terms poetry “a mimetic art ... [created by] combination [page 49:] and representation.” Among the “loftiest” of “creations of their age” he names Shakespeare as sharing with his contemporaries (like Fletcher) a generic resemblance. In the next paragraph he states: “didactic poetry is my abhorrence.” These principles became basic in Poe's aesthetic (see Stovall, Edgar Poe the Poet, University of Virginia Press, 1969, pp. 160-161, who ascribes them solely to Coleridge's Biographia Literaria, ignoring Shelley's stronger influence). Poe dwells on these ideas in his review of Elizabeth Barrett's The Drama of Exile and Other Poems (BJ, January 4 and 11, 1845), specifically mentioning Shelley's Prometheus, with a sequence similar to that in Shelley's Preface (see Writings, 3:1-15, especially 3:14-15, with notes, 4:14-15).

Source: the text of the letter as first printed by Neal (with poetic selections submitted by Poe) in the Yankee and Boston Literary Gazette (December 1829), 1:295-298. In The Letters [1948 and 1966], Ostrom used the transcript sent by Neal in a letter to John H. Ingram, May 10, 1875, now in the University of Virginia, Ingram Collection (item 224). This transcript, however, is clearly just a copy of the article, with additional errors by Neal, and variants which carry no special authority. The dating of Poe's letter is established by the inclusive issues of the Yankee cited above. In his letter to Ingram, Neal admitted Poe's letter was directed to him. It is possible that a concluding portion of the original letter was omitted in both of Neal's printings of it in the Yankee and in the Portland Daily Advertiser, Friday, April 26, 1850. It seems probable that the present letter is at least Poe's second to Neal, an earlier one (CL-44) having accompanied the verses “Heaven” noted in the September Yankee (see Neal's comment, Quinn, p. 152; and The Poe Log, p. 100).

Letter 22 — 1829, November 12 [CL-48] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Balt^o Nov: 12^th 1829

Dear Pa,

I wrote you about a fortnight ago and as I have not heard from you, I was afraid you had forgotten me —

I would not trouble you so often if I was not extremely pinched — I am almost without clothes — and, as I board by the month, the lady [page 50:] with whom I board is anxious for hey [sic] money — I have not had any (you know) since the middle of August —

I hope the letter I wrote last was received in which you will see that I have cleared myself from any censure of neglect as regards W. P. —

Hoping that you will not forget to write as soon as you receive this[.]

Letter 23 — 1829, November 18 [CL-50] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Balt^o Nov 18^th 1829

Dear Pa —

I duly rec^d your letter enclosing a check for $80, for which I am truly thankful — This will be quite sufficient for all the expenditures you mention but I am afraid if I purchase a piece of linen of which I am much in want I shall have none left for pocket money — & if you could get me a piece or a 1/2 piece at M^r Galts & send it to me by the boat, I could get it made up gratis by my Aunt Maria — [page 51:]

The Poems will be printed by Hatch & Dunning of this city upon terms advantageous to me they printing it & giving me 250 copies of the book: — <they> I will send it on by M^r Dunning who is going immediately to Richmond —

I am glad to hear that your trip to the springs was of service in recruiting your health & spirits —

Give my love to Miss V. —

Letter 24 — 1829, December 29 [CL-53] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Neal (Boston, MA):

[...] [w]as intended — I mention this merely to assure [y]ou that the delay was none of mine, as [i]n all matters, however trivial, I dete[st it]. I now forward them —

I thank you, Sir, for the kind interest you [e]xpress for my worldly as well as poetical [w]elfare — a sermon of prosing would [h]ave met with much less attention —

You will see that I have made the alterations you suggest “ventur’d out” in place of peer-ed — [w]hich is, at best, inapplicable to a statue — [a]nd other corrections of the same kind — [there] [is] much however (in metre) to be corrected — [b]ut I did not observe it till too late —

I wait anxiously for your notice of [page 2] the book — I think the best lines for sound are these in Al Aaraaf.

But the best thing (in every other respect) is the small piece headed “Preface.”

I am certain that these lines have never been surpassed.

“It is well to think well of one's self” — so sings somebody —

You will do me justice however —

Letter 25 — 1830, May 3 [CL-56] Poe (Richmond, VA) to Sergeant Samuel Graves (Old Point Comfort, VA):

Richmond

May 3^d 1830.

Dear Bully

I have just received your letter which is the first I have ever got from you — I suppose the reason of my not getting your other was that [page 54:] you directed to Washington — but I have not been there for some time — As to what you say about Downey M^r A very evidently misunderstood me, and I wish you to understand that I never sent any money by Downey whatsoever — M^r A is not very often sober — which accounts for it — I mentioned to him that I had seen Downey at Balto:, as I did, & that I wished to send it on by him, but he did not intend going to the point.

[page 2] I have tried to get the money for you from M^r A a dozen times — but he always shuffles me off — I have been very sorry that I have never had it in my power as yet to pay either you or S^t Griffith — but altho’ appearances are very much against me, I think you know me sufficiently well to believe that I have no intention of keeping you out of your money — the very first opportunity, you shall have it (both of you) with interest & my best thanks for your kindness. — I told S^t Benton why I never had it in my power — He will explain it.

[page 3] I suppose some of the officers told you that I am a cadet — If you are, at any time, going to leave the point, write to W. Point and let me know your station. you [sic] need be under no uneasiness about your money.

Give my respects to the company to S^t Benton & wife & sister in la[w.]

remember me to M^rs Graves — S^t Hooper & Charley — Duke &c

Letter 26 — 1830, June 28 [CL-58] Poe (West Point, NY) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

West Point

June 28^th

Dear Pa,

I take the very first opportunity which I have had since arriving here of acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 21^rst May inclosing a U. S. note for $20[.] I received it 3 days ago — it has been lying some time in the W. P. post office where it was forwarded from Balt^o by Henry. As to what you say about the books &c I have taken nothing except what I considered my own property. [page 56:]

Upon arriving here I delivered my letters of recommⁿ & was very politely received by Capⁿ Hitchcock & M^r Ross — The examination for admission is just over — a great many cadets of good family &c have been rejected as deficient. Among these was Peyton Giles son of the Governor — James D Brown, son of Jas Brown J^r has also been dismissed for deficiency after staying here 3 years. I find that I will possess many advantages & shall endeavor to improve them. Of 130 Cadets appointed every year only 30 or 35 ever graduate — the rest being dismissed for bad conduct or deficiency [ —] the Regulations are rigid in the extreme.

[page 2] Please present my respects to M^r and M^rs Jas: Galt, Miss Valentine & Miss Carter.

I will be much pleased if you will answer this letter.

I am in camp at present — my tent mates are Read [sic] & Henderson (nephew of Major Eaton) & Stockton of Phil^a

Letter 27 — 1830, November 6 [CL-59] Poe (West Point, NY) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

West Point

Nov^r 6^th 1830

Dear Sir,

I would have written you long before but did not know where my letters would reach you. I was greatly in hopes you would have come on to W. Point while you were in N. York, and was very much dissapointed [sic] when I heard you had gone on home without letting me hear from you. I have a very excellent standing in my class — in the first section in every thing and have great hopes of doing well. I have spent my time very pleasantly hitherto — but the study requisite is incessant, and the discipline exceedingly rigid. I have seen Gen^l Scott here since I came, and he was very polite and attentive — I am very much pleased with Colonel Thayer, and indeed with every thing at the institution —

If you would be so kind as to send me on a Box of Mathematical Instruments, and a copy of the [page 2] Cambridge Mathematics, you would confer a great favor upon me and render my situation much more comfortable, or forward to Col: Thayer the means of obtaining them; for as I have no deposit, my more necessary expenditures have run me into debt. [page 58:]

Please give my respects to M^rs A, and to M^r and M^rs Jas Galt and Miss V.

M^r Cunningham was also on here some time since, and M^r J. Chevalie and I was indeed very much in hopes that the beauty of the river would have tempted yourself and M^r and M^rs Jas Galt to have paid us a visit.

Letter 28 — 1831, January 3 [CL-61] Poe (West Point, NY) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

West Point Jan^y 3^d 1830. [1831]

Sir,

I suppose (altho’ you desire no further communication with [page 59:] yourself on my part,) that your restriction does not extend to my answering your final letter.

Did I, when an infant, sollicit [sic] your charity and protection, or was it of your own free will, that you volunteered your services in my behalf? It is well known to respectable individuals in Baltimore, and elsewhere, that my Grandfather (my natural protector at the time you interposed) was wealthy, and that I was his favourite grand-child — But the promises of adoption, and liberal education which you held forth to him in a letter which is now in possession of my family, induced him to resign all care of me into your hands. Under such circumstances, can it be said that I have no right to expect any thing at your hands? You may probably urge that you have given me a liberal education. I will leave the decision of that question to those who know how far liberal educations can be obtained in 8 months at the University of Va. Here you will say that it was my own fault that I did not return — You would not let me return because bills were presented you for payment which I never wished nor desired you to pay. Had you let me return, my reformation had been sure — as my conduct the last 3 months gave every reason to believe — and you would never have heard more of my extravagances. But I am not about to proclaim myself guilty of all that has been alledged against me, and which I have hitherto endured, simply because I was too proud to reply. I will boldly say that it was wholly and entirely your own mistaken parsimony that caused all the difficulties in which I was involved while at Charlottsville [sic]. The expences of the institution at the lowest estimate were $350 per annum. You sent me there with $110. Of this $50 were to be paid immediately for board — $60 for attendance upon 2 professors — and you even then did not miss the opportunity of abusing me because I did not attend 3. Then $15 more were to be paid for room-rent — remember that all this was to be paid in advance, with $110. — $12 more for a bed — and $12 more for room furniture. I had, of course, the mortification [page 2] of running in debt for public property — against the known rules of the institution, and was immediately regarded in the light of a beggar. You will remember that in a week after my arrival, I wrote to you for some [page 60:] more money, and for books — You replied in terms of the utmost abuse — if I had been the vilest wretch on earth you could not have been more abusive than you were because I could not contrive to pay $150 with $110. I had enclosed to you in my letter (according to your express commands) an account of the expences incurred amounting to $149 — the balance to be paid was $39 — You enclosed me $40, leaving me one dollar in pocket. In a short time afterwards I received a packet of books consisting of, Gil Blas, and the Cambridge Mathematics in 2 vols: books >>for<< which I had no earthly use since I had no means of attending the mathematical lectures. But books must be had, If I intended to remain at the institution — and they were bought accordingly upon credit. In this manner debts were accumulated, and money borrowed of Jews in Charlottesville at extravagant interest — for I was obliged to hire a servant, to pay for wood, for washing, and a thousand other necessaries. It was then that I became dissolute, for how could it be otherwise? I could associate with no students, except those who were in a similar situation with myself — altho’ from different causes — They from drunkenness, and extravagance — I, because it was my crime to have no one on Earth who cared for me, or loved me. I call God to witness that I have never loved dissipation — Those who know me know that my pursuits and habits are very far from any thing of the kind. But I was drawn into it by my companions[.] Even their professions of friendship — hollow as they were — were a relief. Towards the close of the session you sent me $100 — but it was too late — to be of any service in extricating me from my difficulties — I kept it for some time — thinking that if I could obtain more I could yet retrieve my character — I applied to James Galt — but he, I believe, from the best of motives refused to lend me any — I then became desperate, and gambled — until I finally i[n]volved myself irretrievably. If I have been to blame in all this — place yourself in my situation, and tell me if you would not have been [page 3] equally so. But these circumstances were all unknown to my friends when I returned home — They knew that I had been extravagant — but that was all — I had no hope of returning to Charlottesville, and I waited in vain in expectation that you would, at least, obtain me some employment. I [page 61:] saw no prospect of this — and I could endure it no longer. — Every day threatened with a warrant &c. I left home — and after nearly 2 years conduct with which no fault could be found — in the army, as a common soldier — I earned, myself, by the most humiliating privations — a Cadets’ warrant which you could have obtained at any time for asking. It was then that I thought I might venture to sollicit [sic] your assistance in giving me an outfit — I came home, you will remember, the night after the burial — If she had not have died while I was away there would have been nothing for me to regret — Your love I never valued — but she I believed loved me as her own child. You promised me to forgive all — but you soon forgot your promise. You sent me to W. Point like a beggar. The same difficulties are threatening me as before at Charlottesville — and I must resign.

As to your injunction not to trouble you with farther communication rest assured, Sir, that I will most religiously observe it. When I parted from you — at the steam-boat, I knew that I should nev[er] see you again.

As regards Sergt. Graves — I did write him that letter. As to the truth of its contents, I leave it to God, and your own conscience. — The time in which I wrote it was within a half hour after you had embittered every feeling of my heart against you by your abuse of my family, and myself, under your own roof — and at a time when you knew that my heart was almost breaking.

I have no more to say — except that my future life (which thank God will not endure long) must be passed in indigence and sickness. I have no energy left, nor health. If it was possible, to put up with the fatigues of this place, and the inconveniences which my absolute want of necessaries subject me to, and [page 4] as I mentioned before it is my intention to resign. For this end it will be necessary that you (as my nominal guardian) enclose me your written permission. It will be useless to refuse me this last request — for I can leave the place without any permission — your refusal would only deprive me of the little pay which is now due as mileage.

[space reserved for address] [page 62:]

From the time of writing this I shall neglect my studies and duties at the institution — if I do not receive your answer in 10 days — I will leave the point without — for otherwise I should subject myself to dismission.

Letter 29 — 1831, February 21 [CL-63] Poe (New York, NY) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

N. York Feb 21, 1831

Dear Sir —

In spite of all my resolution to the contrary I am obliged once more to recur to you for assistance — It will however be the last time that I ever trouble any human being — I feel that I am on sick bed from which I never shall get up. I now make an appeal not to your affection because I have lost that but to your sense of justice. I wrote to you for permission to resign — because it was impossible that I could stay — my ear has been too shocking for any description — I am wearing away every day — even if my last sickness had not completed it. I wrote to you as I say for permission to resign because without your permission no resignation can be received — My reason for doing so [page 64:] was that I should obtain my mileage amounting to $30,35 [sic] — according to the rules of the institution. in my present circumstances a single dollar is of more importance >>to me<< than 10,000 are to you and you deliberately refused to answer my letter — I, as I told you, neglected my duty when I found it impossible to attend to it, and [page 2] the consequences were inevitable — dismissal. I have been dismissed — when a single line from you would have saved it — The whole academy have interested themselves in my behalf because my only crime was being sick — but it was of no use — I refer you to Col Thayer to the public records, for my standing and reputation for talent — but it was all in vain if you had granted me permission to resign — all might have been avoided — I have not strength nor energy left to write half what I feel — You one day or other will feeel [sic] how you have treated me. I left [West] Point two days ago and travelling to N. York without a cloak or any other clothing of importance. I have caught a most violent cold and am confined to my bed — I have no money — no friends — I have written to my brother — but he cannot help me — I shall never rise from my bed — besides a most violent cold on my lungs my ear discharges blood and matter continuall[y] and my headache is distracting — I hardly know what I am writing — I will [page 3] write no more — Please send me a little money — quickly — and forget what I said about you —

do [sic] not say a word to my sister.

I shall send to the P.O. every day.

Letter 30 — 1831, March 10 [CL-64] Poe (New York, NY) to Colonel Sylvanus Thayer (West Point, NY):

New York March 10^th 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. [page 66:]

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.

Letter 31 — 1831, May 6 [CL-65] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to William Gwynn (Baltimore, MD):

May 6^th 1831.

Mr. W. Gwynn.

Dear Sir,

I am almost ashamed to ask any favour at your hands after my foolish conduct upon a former occasion — but I trust to your good nature.

I am very anxious to remain and settle myself in Balt^o as Mr. Allan has married again and I no longer look upon Richmond as my place of residence.

This wish of mine has also met with his approbation. [page 67:]

I write to request your influence in obtaining some situation or employment in this city.

Salary would be a minor consideration, but I do not wish to be idle.

Perhaps (since I understand Neilson has left you) you might be so kind as to employ me in your office in some capacity.

If so I will use every exertion to deserve your confidence.

I would have waited upon you personally but am confined to my room with a severe sprain in my knee.

Letter 32 — 1831, October 16 [CL-66] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore.

Octo: 16^th 1831.

Dear Sir,

It is a long time since I have written to you unless with an application for money or assistance. I am sorry that it is so seldom that I hear from you or even of you — for all communication seems to be at an end; and when I think of the long twenty one years that I have [page 68:] called you father, and you have called me son, I could cry like a child to think that it should all end in this. You know me too well to think me interested — if so: why have I rejected your thousand offers of love and kindness? It is true that when I have been in great extremity, I have always applied to you — for I had no other friend, but it is only at such a time as the present when I can write to you with the consciousness of making no application for assistance, that I dare to open my heart, or speak one word of old affection. When I look back upon the past and think of every thing — of how much you tried to do for me — of your forbearance and your generosity, in spite of the most flagrant ingratitude on my part, I can not help thinking <you> myself the greatest fool in [page 2] existence, — I am ready to curse the day when I was born.

But I am fully — truly conscious that all these better feelings have come too late — I am not the damned villain even to ask you to restore me to the twentieth part of those affections which I have so deservedly lost, and I am resigned to whatever fate is alotted [sic] me.

I write merely because I am by myself and have been thinking over old times, and my only friends, until my heart is full — At such a time the conversation of new acquaintance is like ice, and I prefer writing to you altho’ I know that you care nothing about me, and perhaps will not even read my letter.

I have nothing more to say — and this time, no favour to ask — Altho I am wretchedly poor, I have managed to get clear of the difficulty I spoke of in my last, and am out of debt, at any rate.

Will you not write one word to me?

Letter 33 — 1831, November 18 [CL-68] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Balt:

Nov^r 18. 1831,

My Dear Pa,

I am in the greatest distress and have no other friend on earth to apply to except yourself if you refuse to help me I know not what I shall do. I was arrested eleven days ago for a debt which I never expected to have to pay, and which was incurred as much on Hy^'s account as on my own about two years ago.

I would rather have done any thing on earth than apply to you again after your late kindness — but indeed I have no other resource, and I am in bad health, and unable to undergo as much hardships as formerly or I never would have asked you to give me another cent.

If you will only send me this one time $80, by Wednesday next, I will never forget your kindness & generosity. — if you refuse God only knows what I shall do, & all my hopes & prospects are ruined forever — [page 70:]

I have made every exertion but in vain.

Letter 34 — 1831, December 15 [CL-69] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Balt. Dec. 15^th, 1831.

Dear Pa,

I am sure you could not refuse to assist me if you were well aware of the distress I am in. How often have you relieved the distresses of a perfect stranger in circumstances less urgent than mine, and yet when I beg and intreat you in the name of God to send me succour you will still refuse to aid me. I know that I have offended you past all forgiveness, and I know that I have no longer any hopes of being again [page 71:] received into your favour, but, for the sake of Christ, do not let me perish for a sum of money which you would never miss, and which would relieve me from the greatest earthly misery — especially as I promise by all that is sacred that I will never under any circumstances apply to you again. Oh! if you knew at this moment how wretched I am you would never forgive yourself for having refused me. You are enjoying yourself in all the blessings that wealth & happiness can bestow, and I am suffering every extremity of want and misery without even a chance of escape, or a friend to whom I can look up to for assistance.

Think for one moment, and if your nature and former heart are not altogether changed you [page 2] will no longer refuse me your assistance if not for my sake for the sake of humanity.

I know you have never turned a beggar from your door, and I apply to you in that light, I beg you for a little aid, and for the sake of all that was formerly dear to you I trust that you will relieve me.

If you wish me to humble myself before you I am humble — Sickness and misfortune have left me not a shadow of pride. I own that I am miserable and unworthy of your notice, but do not leave me to perish without leaving me still one resource. I feel at the very bottom of my heart that if you were in my situation and you in mine, how differently I would act.

Letter 35 — 1831, December 29 [CL-70] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore

Dec^r: 29^th 1831

Dear Sir,

Nothing but extreme misery and distress would make <y> me venture to intrude myself again upon your notice — If you knew how wretched I am I am sure that you would <ref> relieve me — No person in the world I am sure, could have undergone more wretchedness than I have done for some time past — and I have indeed no friend to look to but yourself — and no chance of extricating myself without your assistance. I know that I have no claim upon your generosity — and that what little share I had of your affection is long since forfeited, but, for the sake of what once was dear to you, for the sake of the love you bore me when I sat upon your knee and called you father do not forsake me this only time — and god will remember you accordingly —

Letter 36 — 1833, April 12 [CL-71] Poe (Baltimore, MD) to John Allan (Richmond, VA):

Baltimore April 12^th 1833

It has now been more than two years since you have assisted me, and more than three since you have spoken to me. I feel little hope that you will pay any regard to this letter, but still I cannot refrain from making one more attempt to interest you in my behalf. If you will only consider in what a situation I am placed you will surely pity me — without friends, without any means, consequently of obtaining employment, I am perishing — absolutely perishing for want of aid. And yet I am not idle — nor addicted to any vice — nor have I committed any offence against society which would render me deserving of so hard a fate. For God's sake pity me, and save me from destruction.