[Autograph Letter Card, Signed in Full]

Camden, NJ, 1884. Ca. thirty words, on one side only of 7.5 x 13.5 cm card, in ink. Paper residue on blank verso from earlier mounting, a few small scattered spots (pale ink spatters?) and some light tanning along one edge, otherwise very good. Signed in full. To an unidentified "Dear Friend," a note of gratitude: "Please convey to the Marquis de Leuville my thanks for his beautiful book just received -- & to you also thanks for your kindness. Walt Whitman." The initial letter in 'Leuville' has been altered (possibly from 'N') in a darker ink and heavier hand. William Redivivus Oliver de Lorncourt, Marquis de Leuville, published his collection POEMS AND AELIA FROM "ENTRE-NOUS" in 1884, and that is most likely the book referenced. The Marquis was something of a character, a poet-adventurer and poseur, most widely remembered for his pursuit and attempted courting of the widow of Frank Leslie. His skill as a poet was minimal, but he utilized copies of his books as calling cards, so their (subsidized) editions were large. He spent time in the US as well as his native UK, and included in his circle of acquaintances a number of Americans, including Buffalo Bill and Joaquin Miller. His conveyance of one of his books to Whitman is appropriate. WHITMAN ARCHIVE (ONLINE) med.00761.