WCP4183

[1]

The Portico Library,

57, Mosley Street,

Manchester

3^rd Nov[ember] [19]05

Dear Dr Wallace,

Congratulations on your publication of your life. It is a happening which many of your intimate friends and many of your unknown admirers have been waiting for. I have not read it yet but we shall be having it at the library and at the first opportunity [2] I promise myself the enjoyment of reading it.

I have kept a look out in different papers & journals but have seen no mention of the American poet Riley¹ ever having confuted[?] your article on "Leonainie".

I think there is absolutely no doubt that the poem is a genuine "Poe"² production. Mr Riley has many friends & acquaintances in England and he will most certainly have heard about the article challenging him to produce evidence as to his authorship. [3] But very wisely, for his own reputation, he says nothing.

Knowing your fondness for poetry I take the liberty of "inflicting" upon you a humble effort of my own.

Trusting you are in good health.

I remain | yours sincerely | Ernest Marriott [signature]

A. R. Wallace Esq. F.R.S.