Text: John Tomlin to Edgar Allan Poe — February 23, 1844

Jackson, Tennessee, February 23, 1844.

Dear Sir, — I have had no letter from you, since I sent you the libellous letter of A. L. Wilmer. Did you inflict on him a chastisement equal to the injury he designed, by the publication of such scandals? Previous to the reception of that letter, I had entertained a good opinion of the “Quacks of Helicon” man, and it had been brought about in a great measure by your Review of the Book. In his former letters, he not only spoke kindly of you, but seemed disposed to become your advocate, against the litterateures of Philadelphia. I hope that you will forgive him, and that he will go, and “Sin no more.”

Your Review of “Orion” in the February, or March No. of “Graham’s” I have read with much pleasure. The article is one of great ability. I know of no writer whose success in life would give me more sincere pleasure than that of yourself.

Hoping soon to hear from you, I remain ever

Your Friend,
Jno. Tomlin.

E. A. Poe, Esq.