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JAMES T.WHITE CO.,PUBLISHERS 5 AND 7 EAST 10TH ST. NEW YORK THE NATIONAL CYCLOPEDIA OF AMERICAN BIOGRAPHY Dict.J.T.W.
New York,Dec.30,1898. Dear Sir:- My work,as Editor-in-Chief of The National Cyclopedia of American Biography,brings me
in contact with the foremost personages in the United States; and being quite a hero worshipper,I am gathering into an Original
Calendar solely for my own pleasure and not for publication,a characteristic verse, quotation from one's own writing,drawing,or
bar of music,-from the world's brightest intellects upon the date of their birthdays,and I beg to ask from you for this purpose
some slight contribution from your genius and attainment over your own signature, on the accompanying sheet. You must appreciate
what entertainment such a galaxy of originality would give to you,and I trust you will lend me your good will and aid,as regards
yourself,in helping me to this gratification. Pleaee return in the same envelope,tearing off the label, and restamping with
encolsed atamp. The Calendar will be ready to bind upon the return of a few more leaves, and you will render me very much
your birthday, the date reserved for you in my arragement. I am, Sincerely, illegible To - Mr. John Muir, Martinez,
Cal.