I know that to no purer judge, no deeper drinker at the well
of English undefiled than yourself could I do myself the honor
of dedicating my volumes. I know also that to no friendlier
auditor could I offer it, than to you, who, of American poets,
was the first to encourage my efforts by the grateful meed of
your approbation. Accept, therefore, this slight tribute of my
regard and gratitude, in which if you recognise some of my
earlier lucubrations, you will find them retouched by an elder,
if not abler hand, and contrasted with several the very latest,
and pray, Believe me ever,
Your sincere friend and faithful servant,
Henry William Herbert.
The Cedars,
January 1, 1852.
