1861-03-15
James T. Fields

1861-03-15
James T. Fields

To JAMES T. FIELDS
March 15, 1861, Wheeling 

Mr. Fields.

Your kindness touches me. The more because it is so unexpected. I see that the novelty of the scene of the story[1]  has made you over-estimate it; – another, most probably, would disappoint you. However, I will try. I have nothing written now. I have been sick since you wrote. If the story is published in an English magazine, will you tell me which one? As to the money, thank you sincerely.

I receive the offer as frankly as you made it, but you must pardon me if I decline it. Money is enough a “needful commodity” with me to make me accept with a complacent smile whatever you think the articles are worth. But if I were writing with a hundred dollar bill before me in order to write in it “I have paid him” I am afraid the article would be broad and deep just $100 – and no more;—dollarish all over. Pardon me. I am grateful all the same. In proof of it, I will ask a favor of you instead of the money.

If any of your exchanges notice the story will you send them to me?  That is a trouble, is it not? I would like to see them, partly from selfish motives and partly because it would please my father and mother—  I trust to your kindness, to give me the pleasure, provided any one likes the article as you do 

Respectfully,
Rebecca B. Harding

S. M. Harris

Richard Harding Davis Papers, Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia