WCP3258

[1]

West New Brighton, N. Y., U. S. A.

Nov. 4, 1908.

To Prof. Alfred Russell Wallace.

Dear Mr. Wallace:

For long months I have had it in mind to send you a more special word for your two letters¹ concerning my poems. Illness and other obstacles have delayed what all along my heart has been urging. For I need scarcely say that your words of approval are among the few most precious possessions of my life. Your faith in me is a constant inspiration on the long road.

You speak in particular of my poems touched by the Social Passion. This fact gives me a peculiar pleasure; for, since early manhood, this passion has been pressing close against my heart. You will see from this how delighted I am to find your very serious concern for the vast and anxious question of the social welfare.

Let me congratulate you on your long and honorable life devoted to so many noble uses.

Faithfully yours | Edwin Markham.² [signature]