Edward L. Pierce, Memoir and letters of Charles Sumner: volume 2

To Lieber, then in New York, he wrote, Aug. 31, 1841:—

I am glad that the book on “Property” promises so well. I send herewith a discourse of Edward Everett, wherein he discussed some of your topics, particularly the inequality of property in the world. It is less rhetorical and more grave than his productions in general. . . . Young Dana¹ has just taken a wife, so I cannot hope to see him immediately to communicate to him your flattering notice of his book. You met him at my office. You remember I told you he was a remarkable person. William Story is at work on your “Laura;” ² he manipulates your style every day, sitting in the remote corner of Hillard's room. While writing this, your letter, with that soulful epistle of your wife, has come to hand. What a luxury to have so much love to lean upon, to encourage you, to animate you, to make you happy! I would give an Indian argosy for such a treasure.

To Horatio Greenough.

Boston, Sept. 16, 1841.

dear Greenough,—. . . Allston has a little novel³ in press, written twenty years ago,—‘about as large as the “Vicar of Wakefield,” ’ so he says,—being the story of the life of an artist in Italy. I long to see it; for his beautiful mind must throw delightful colors over such a subject. Young Dana does admirably at the bar. He has as much business as he can attend to. When shall you let us see you? I have sent a letter of introduction to you by Mr.Grote and Mrs. Grote, of London. Mr. Grote is a most accomplished man,—late M. P. for the city of London (Lord John Russell is his successor), a strong Liberal in politics, and a lover of the institutions of our country. He has been devoted, for twelve or fifteen years, to an elaborate ‘History of Greece.’ Mrs. Grote is a masculine person, without children, interested very much in politics, and one of the most remarkable women in England. Dr. Channing told me that Miss Sedgwick thought her the most remarkable woman she met in Europe. They are both sincere, high-minded persons; and I have ventured to introduce them, believing that you and they would be pleased to know each other. Thanks for your letter, which you called grumbling. Let me have another. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Greenough.

Ever sincerely yours,

Charles Sumner.

To George S. Hillard, Boston.

Wall St., New York, Saturday, Sept. 25, 1841.

dear Hillard,—My researches in the clerk's office have been fruitful, and make me sanguine that we shall defeat the enemy. I have been occupied