Robert Elliott to Walt Whitman, 9 July 1880

 man_ej.00131_large.jpg Bryanston, July 9th 1880 To Walt Whitman Esq. Respected and Dear Sir,

You will doubtless be surprised at the receipt of this letter. I will briefly state the causes which lead me to write it.

A fortnight ago to-day, I was visiting the Brigade Camp of volunteers, then stationed at London East. I there recognized you, Mr Whitman as the original of a portrait published several years ago, in an issue of Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper.

You may possibly recollect me as the young person with whom you exchanged a few words on that day, respecting  man_ej.00215_large.jpg  man_ej.00216_large.jpgthe Huron Co. Battalion and particularly about that portion of their head-gear named 'Havelocks'. Subsequently I had the honor of receiving a recognition from you, and believe me, the compliment, though perhaps undeserved, was duly appreciated and treasured as a happy recollection.

Not content with this however, I have resolved, not without misgivings as to its propriety, to write to you, respectfully requesting by way of answer, a few words of advice, suitable to a young person (myself—22 yrs​ old to-day) desirous of embracing Literature as a profession. Report relates many incidents to show the desire you express of aiding, by the help of your genius, many with whom you come in contact and I am  man_ej.00133_large.jpgall the more willing to believe these reports, when I read in your poetry the lessons that teach the sublimity of Friendship the pathos of human sympathy, and the power that one man may wield over the destinies of another.

Earnestly hoping that you will honor my desire,

I remain very faithfully yours, Robt.​ Elliott, Bryanston P.A. Co.​ Middlesex Ont.

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