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“The general tone & character of this work (The S. L. Messenger) impart lustre to our periodical literature; and we really congratulate its publisher upon the sound and steadfast popularity which it has acquired. Let it never be forgotten, however, that the first impetus to the favor of literary men which it received was given by the glowing pen of Edgar A Poe now assistant editor of Burton’s Gentleman’s Magazine; and, although, since he has left it, has well maintained its claims to respectability, yet there are few writers in this country — take Neal, Irving, & Willis away and we would say none — who can compete successfully, in many respects, with Poe. With an acuteness of observation, a vigorous and effective style, and an independence that defies control, he unites a fervid fancy and a most beautiful enthusiasm. His is a high destiny.”

Will you be kind enough to drop me a line in reply?

Yours sincerely

Edgar A Poe.

Did you see the “Weekly Messenger” (Alexander’s) or Noah’s Evening Star? They spoke highly of my tale — “The House of Usher”. — as also the Pennsylvanian & The U.S. Gazette of this city.

P.S. I have made a profitable engagement with Blackwood’s Mag: and my forthcoming Tales are promised a very commendatory Review in that journal from the pen of Prof. Wilson. Keep this a secret, if you please, for the present.

Can you not send us something for the Gents’ Mag? Do you know anything of the Pittsburg Literary Examiner? I wrote for it a review of Tortesa in its 3d no — but have not yet recd. No 4.

All the criticisms in the Mag: are mine with the exception of the 3 first.

J. E. Snodgrass, Esqr

Edgar Allan Poe to Joseph Evans Snodgrass — October 7, 1839

Phil: Oct: 7, 39

My dear Sir

I read your kind letter and now write a few hasty words in reply, merely to thank you for your exertions in my behalf, and to say that I send today, the Octo. No. 2. We have been delayed with it, for various reasons.

I felt that N. Poe, would not insert the article editorially. In your private ear, I believe him to be the bitterest enemy I have in the world. He is the more despicable in this, since he makes loud professions of friendship. Was it “relationship &c.” which prevented him saying any thing at all of the 2 or 3 last Nos. of the Gents’ Mag? I cannot account for his hostility except in being vain enough to imagine him jealous of the little literary reputation I have, of late years, obtained. But enough of the little dog.

I sincerely thank you for the interest you have taken in my well-doing. The friendship of a man of talent, who is at the same time a man of honorable feeling, is especially valuable in these days of double dealing. I hope I shall always deserve your good opinion.

In the Octo. no: all the criticisms are mine — also the gymnastic article.

My book will be out in the begg (beginning) of No.r

In haste, yours most truly

Edgar A Poe

Have you any of the Nos: of the S. Lit. Mess.r from No 7, vol I — to No 6. vol 2? both inclusive. Or do you know anyone who has them?

Dr. J. E. Snodgrass.

Edgar Allan Poe to Joseph Evans Snodgrass — November 11, 1839

Nov: 11th Phil.

My Dear Sir,

I was much pleased this morning by the reception of two letters from you — one of which, I presume, has been lying perdu in the P. Office for some 10 days — but the Post did not come to hand at all, or, possibly, may have been mislaid among our daily cargo of mail-papers. I have, however, just succeeded in seeing your critique on file in a friend’s office — and have to thank you very sincerely for your kindness. The only fault I find is that you say altogether too much in my favor. You have overwhelmed me with praise — much of which I truly feel is undeserved. I regret too that you did not preserve the proper order of your initials — I should have been proud of the authority of your name.

I am sure you will be pleased to hear that Washington Irving has addressed me 2 letters, abounding in high passages of compliment in regard to my Tales — passages which he desires me to