Text: Richard H. Horne to Edgar Allan Poe — April 16, 1844

5 Fortress Terrace Kentish Town London
April 16/44

My dear Sir

I have received your letter this morning, and shall feel now, and at all times happy in forwarding your views here, so far as I am able, in the matters of literary engagement. Just at this time, however, and probably for some months to come, I shall not be likely to have the power. If you have seen the “New Spirit of the Age” you will readily understand that a great many critics here, and some authors, are far from pleased with me. The attacks and jeers in Magazines and newspapers here (though several have treated me very fairly) are nearly all written by friends of the angry parties, or influenced by them. Perhaps I may say a word on this point in the Second Edition now preparing. I mention this to show you why I can do little at present. I need not say to an American, that when the story has blown over, those trees that are not blown down, nor injured, look all the fresher among the wrecks. I dare say I shall be able to do what you wish before long. I should prefer to do this so that you are fairly remunerated; but if the parties are not in a “paying condition” then I will put you in direct communication with them to arrange the matter yourself.

I could, most probably, obtain the insertion of the article you have sent, in “Jerrold’s Illustrated Magazine.” Jerrold has always spoken and written very handsomely and eloquently about me, and there would be no difficulty. But - I fear this magazine is not doing at all well. I tell you this; in confidence. They have a large, but inadequate circulation. The remuneration would be scarcely worth having - 10 guineas a sheet, is poor pay for such a page! And now, perhaps, they do not even give that. I will see. My impression, however, is that for the reasons stated previously, I shall not at present, be able to assist you in the way I could best wish.

Your name is well known to me in the critical literature of America, although I have not seen any American magazine for some months. I have ordered the last two Nos. of “Graham’s Magazine” but have not received them from my booksellers.

I am grateful for the noble and generous terms in which you speak of my works. I have written you a business-like, and not a very “spiritual” letter, you will think. Still, as you are kind enough to give me credit for some things of the latter kind, it seemed best at this distance to reply to your wishes, practically. I am dear Sir,

Yours truly
R. H. Horne

Edgar Allan Poe, Esqre.