Autograph Letter Signed by the Scottish poet Thomas Campbell, author of 'Gertrude of Wyoming', writing in memorable style on presenting a book to an American visitor about to return home.

2pp., 4to. An excellent letter, stylish and charming, and a lucky survival. In poor condition, apparently as a result of fire damage: with wear and chipping repaired with archival tape. Campbell begins: 'It was my intention when you were amidst the shelves of my library to have presented you with a copy of my poems - but I was prevented from doing so by a circumstance similar to what the mayor of a small town in England pleaded in excuse to Queen Elizabeth for not ringing the bells on her Majesty's entrance into the town - He said they had nineteen reasons for not ringing their bells - the first of which was that they had no bells to ring - and her Majesty dispensed with the other 18 reasons - I had copy of my poems therewith to present you - I intended to be sure to send to my publisher for one - but the good intention, like many others, went out of my foolish head. I hope the copy I now send will reach you in time before you sail -'. He continues with a quite beautiful expression of good wishes for the recipient's journey back to America: 'And prosperously may you sail my dear friend - speedily may you arrive at the goal of your wishes - and embrace the friend that is dearer to you than your own life - '. He has not read 'both of the charming little American brochures' which he sent him, 'but I have read Channing's - It is a glorious production[.] What simplicity of eloquence and rationation'. Here he quotes Thomas Chatterton, before concluding: 'Believe me my dear Sir that no man holds in more veneration than I do all that is respectable in your United States - and that is not saying a little - and it is not a slender compliment to you to say that you are a most interesting representative of that country - | I shall ever remain | with gratifying recollections | Your obliged friend | [signed] Thomas Campbell -'.