TO THE HON. OGDEN HOFFMAN,
OF NEW YORK.
Dear Sir:
When some of the “ungentle craft” attacked with asperity
my first essay at novel-writing, which was an attempt to portray
the adventures of one of that profession of which you are so distinguished
an ornament, you were so kind as to come to the
rescue, though I was then personally unknown to you, and to
say that the portraiture was not unfaithful.
Mine, I fear, is not the only bantling whom your eloquence
has saved from the consequences of error. Be that as it may
my gratitude is none the less; and I am proud of this public
opportunity of avowing it, and of inscribing with your name, in
token of my thankfulness, an effort which I hope is worthier of
your approval.
Yours, with great regard,
THE AUTHOR.
St. Louis (Missouri), August 15, 1840.
