signed
by SARA PRYOR
SARA AGNES RICE PRYOR (1830-1912). Pryor was a Virginia-born American writer and community activist in New York City; after the Civil War, she and her husband, who had been a Confederate general, fled north. Her best-known books include The Mother Of Washington And Her Times and The Birth Of The Nation: Jamestown, 1607. ALS. 6pg. 5” x 6 ½”. August 28, 1908. 3 West 69th [New York City]. An autograph letter signed “Sara A. Pryor” to Dr. Hayden on black-bordered mourning stationery: “I am honored by your mention of my book in the ‘Pennsylvania German’ of July. And I thank you cordially for your kindness in sending me the magazine. A new edition of ‘The Mother of Washington’ will probably be issued. And I am instructed by you in general particulars which will enable me to make some corrections. I cannot sufficiently express my regret that such a paper as the true by terrible one contributed…should have been admitted at this day. Infinite harm is done by relating the outrages of the two sections, who were forced into opposition by the politicians of 1859-61. What is the use of friends re-opening old sores? They only provoke retaliation. When I wrote my ‘Reminiscences of Peace & War’ I wrote a vivid, strange chapter relating to Sherman’s burning of Columbia & march & fire…not sparing the peaceful nuns of a convent – but I withdrew the chapter from motives superior to my natural desire for the interest of my book. I know we agree about these things. What is the use of calling ourselves Christians if we cherish injuries & repeat their story? I suppose few suffered greater wrongs that did I – but I…in my book to record them with anything like the dark realty - & I think to keep them from my memory, as I kept them from the pages of my book. I trust you are well, dear Dr. Hayden…”. The letter is in good condition with soiling, mounting remnants and other faults. (Inventory #: 4023)