Description

Description: We offer two items handwritten by English poet and journalist Sir Edwin Arnold (1832-1904). The first is a four-page pencil manuscript of Arnold’s speech (unsigned), an appreciation of American audiences, delivered at his farewell reading at Daly’s Theatre in 1892 on the eve of his departure for Japan [this data from a signed statement of theatre owner Augustin Daly penned at the top of the speech]. Arnold writes in part: “I will dare to say that here if anywhere in the world the poet whose credentials are earnest good-will, and firm faith in their glorious destiny, may fearlessly speak what is on his heart & brain, & be sure of an attention as gentle & generous as it is cultivated. I came to America her friend; I go away her champion, her servant, her lover.” Four pages of lined paper glued together at left margin, they measure: 6 1/4″ x 8″.

The second item is a signed note that is dated December 29, 1891 and reads: “Dear Sir You will find all about the Taj Mahal, in my book entitled ‘With Sa’di, in the Garden’ published by Roberts Bros. Boston Mass. Yours faithfully Edwin Arnold”. It measures: 3 1/4″ x 5 5/8″.

Sir Edwin Arnold is chiefly known for his Indian epic The Light of Asia (1879) which explores the teachings of Buddhism through the life of Prince Gautama.

Item #A01845

Condition: The speech’s first page has discoloration from glue along left margin and there are some faint creases. The note has mounting remnants on verso and also creases. Generally the two items are in good condition.