Text: Joseph Hopkinson to Edgar Allan Poe — January 25, 1841

Philad. Jany 25. 1841

Dear Sir

It has always been my desire that we should concentrate in Philadelphia as much literary talent as possible, and be distinguished by works of science and genius issuing from our press — I have therefore never been reluctant to afford the little aid in my power to such enterprises — My time and attention, however, are much occupied by my official duties, so that I avoid making engagements which may interfere with them, or may themselves be neglected — I wish your Magazine may succeed, and with the talent you can of yourself bring into it, your prospect is encouraging — I will keep it in my view, & shall be happy to contribute to it’s support when I have any communications which may be acceptable to your readers — Allow me to remind you that the ruin of our periodicals has been distant subscribers, who never send their money, and the collection of which costs more than is received — A late very popular work, that set out with great strictness in exacting punctual payment from it’s subscribers, had, nevertheless, thirty thousand dollars due to it in five or six years, and was compelled to stop, with an immense list of subscribers —

Very respectfully

Your obt Svt
Jos. Hopkinson