Skip to main content

Thomas E. Vale to Walt Whitman, 12 December 1890

 loc_vm.00744.jpg Professor Walt Whitman— Camden New Jersey Dear Sir,

I thought the enclosed cutting1 out of my Chester paper would interest you. So I have taken the liberty to send it.

Your kindness on the field of battle, and loc_vm.00745.jpg in the hospitals, is deserving of all praise—and is appreciated by all Britons.

Being a stranger, not having read much of your poetry—I am very anxious, if possible, to procure—a copy of the first edition of one of your earliest poems. I am not particular which one—if you would kindly advise me where loc_vm.00746.jpg I could procure a copy. I am sure Sir, you have the best wishes of myself, and all—for your health and happiness, & wishing you a joyful Xmas & a happy new year.

I remain Dear Sir Your faithful Servant Thos. E. Vale P.T.O.  loc_vm.00747.jpg

It must have been a great consolation to you, to think that you have helped so much to alleviate the sufferings of those on the field of battle, and in the hospitals.

T. E. Vale—

Correspondent:
The correspondent may be Thomas E. Vale (1845–1917), the son of James Vale, a physician, and his wife Elizabeth. According to the 1891 England Census, Thomas Vale resided with his mother, then a widow "living by her own means," and his sister in Bidford, Warwickshire, England.


Notes

  • 1. This enclosure has not been located. [back]
Back to top