13 25 22278 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/0c753fad7ad5caccc264e569360d5da8.pdf d4c66bc1edec6d47bed33f80b51fe8d1 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. (Top left corner notation) 5 Phila: Octr: 30th 1878 My dear Jervy - You letter was very gratifying -- I did not expect to hear so soon from you, therefore it was all the more agreeable. In it I beheld all I wanted to see -- your strength, your faith, yourself. I am so glad that you are to be away from the lonely studio bed; wish you could quit that locality altogether -- so crowded, as it is, with afsociations that must forever be deprefsing to you. What you require now is a total change of surroundings -- I mean in your art-life. Can't you take a studio elsewhere? It would surely <hr /> be better for you. I scratch this under great difficulty -- with an aggravating pain that has seriously interfered with me the past two weeks, but I did not wish another day to pafs without acknowledging your letter, and saying "God blefs you, Jervy". I know you will excuse the brevity and feeblenefs of this -- consider all the blank filled with loving mefsages from both of us. God blefs you. Ever Yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 2 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300400 T1878.10.30-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1878-10-30 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth again consoles Jervis McEntee over the death of his wife. Booth recognizes that McEntee seems to be doing better and encourages his friend to find a new studio and change his surroundings. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. (Top left corner notation) 5 Phila: Octr: 30th 1878 My dear Jervy - You letter was very gratifying -- I did not expect to hear so soon from you, therefore it was all the more agreeable. In it I beheld all I wanted to see -- your strength, your faith, yourself. I am so glad that you are to be away from the lonely studio bed; wish you could quit that locality altogether -- so crowded, as it is, with afsociations that must forever be deprefsing to you. What you require now is a total change of surroundings -- I mean in your art-life. Can't you take a studio elsewhere? It would surely <hr /> be better for you. I scratch this under great difficulty -- with an aggravating pain that has seriously interfered with me the past two weeks, but I did not wish another day to pafs without acknowledging your letter, and saying "God blefs you, Jervy". I know you will excuse the brevity and feeblenefs of this -- consider all the blank filled with loving mefsages from both of us. God blefs you. Ever Yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/650d547e8cb7ddf0781839fed0d98708.pdf 5513971ad2eab5a5dd88d4b495fac761 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 68 Madison Ave. Novr. 29th 1878 Dear Jervy - I have let your letter of 17th inst go by - hoping to see you soon, for you said you might make an early visit to the city. Today your 26th came and I am glad that you threaten to take Mrs Vaux' place in case she cannot attend the play. I believe Gertrude would tell you to do just what most folks consider not altogether right under the circum <hr /> stances, but what all sensible people must endorse as the proper and healthful course. Come out of yourself, and live -- while God wills that you shall still inhabit "this flesh that walls about our life." I am mightily pleased that your good old parents desire to see me, and I shall do my best to pleasure them. I perform Hamlet on Monday next & will repeat it the following week - perhaps <hr /> more than once, but of that I am not sure. Shall I send seats for Monday? Shall I send four instead of three - that you may come anyhow? Othello will be acted at the Matinee, but I play Lago & Harkins the Moor. This is Friday; I won't have time, I fear, to wait for your reply -- therefore I will hold the 4 seats reserved for Monday up to the last moment. Businefs has not been vey good, nor has my <hr /> acting been up to the work every night; I am not well & have felt no interest in anything. Remember us very kindly to your parents & to all the brothers & sisters. I have just pulled through a tedious rehearsal with a heavy ache on my back. God blefs you. Ever Yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300401 T1878.11.29-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1878-11-29 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth expresses to Jervis McEntee his hopes that his friend will come to the city and see his play. Booth adds: "I believe Gertrude would tell you to do just what most folks consider not altogether right under the circumstances " Booth adds that he will be having four tickets held at the theatre so that McEntee can see him in Hamlet. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 68 Madison Ave. Novr. 29th 1878 Dear Jervy - I have let your letter of 17th inst go by - hoping to see you soon, for you said you might make an early visit to the city. Today your 26th came and I am glad that you threaten to take Mrs Vaux' place in case she cannot attend the play. I believe Gertrude would tell you to do just what most folks consider not altogether right under the circum <hr /> stances, but what all sensible people must endorse as the proper and healthful course. Come out of yourself, and live -- while God wills that you shall still inhabit "this flesh that walls about our life." I am mightily pleased that your good old parents desire to see me, and I shall do my best to pleasure them. I perform Hamlet on Monday next & will repeat it the following week - perhaps <hr /> more than once, but of that I am not sure. Shall I send seats for Monday? Shall I send four instead of three - that you may come anyhow? Othello will be acted at the Matinee, but I play Lago & Harkins the Moor. This is Friday; I won't have time, I fear, to wait for your reply -- therefore I will hold the 4 seats reserved for Monday up to the last moment. Businefs has not been vey good, nor has my <hr /> acting been up to the work every night; I am not well & have felt no interest in anything. Remember us very kindly to your parents & to all the brothers & sisters. I have just pulled through a tedious rehearsal with a heavy ache on my back. God blefs you. Ever Yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/f9bb32cb9b87a9fda7964c83e0b3a37c.pdf d9e572fc456344dffc1e4d6040e64c3d Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 68 Madison Ave: Decr 16th 1878 Dear Jervy – You must not think that when you left my ‘loaferie’ tother day that you then passed out of my memory; no, you are there forever. Not a day has since passed but I have said---‘now I must send a word to Jervy,’ but before I could settle down to my “pen and ink-horn” some untoward circumstances would <hr /> intervene and stay proceedings. Tonight I am free; no theatre, no callers---so have [illegible] [fun?] Because I do not answer, or comment on the contents of your last letter---so full of deep religious tenderness; so fraught with what all what all who know you appreciate in you, it must not check the impulse to let your feeling have full vent---in the fear of wearying me. All that you can say when you seek relief in words, spoken or on <hr /> paper shall be welcomed as a sacred trust. If I do not respond in such a manner as another might ‘tis not because I care not, but because I cannot. This you know, I know; and I am not afraid that you will misconstrue me if I prate of [wordly?] matters. I remember how sensitive my wound was, and how I winced at the seeming heartlessness of those who ignored it and talked to me of acting, for though I think I bore my blows bravely---yet there were many, many hours in the <hr /> dark days of my life when I would creep into and “eat my heart.” These moments come to you, & will return---frequently for a while, but the light will soon dispel the shadows---at least so soften them that the rich autumnal beauty of your woe will soothe and strengthen, not depress you. I am very awkward in expression---as you well know, but in the overflow of feeling I set all sail---regardless of risk, or whether you can follow me or not. But I am sure, if my meaning is obscure, that you will rightly guess at it. <hr /> Stedman passed the evening with us (yesterday) and charmed us all---would I could talk as he does! From what he said of Taylor I fear we shall lose him; private letters are very discouraging; but, perhaps, you know all this; and more than I have heard. Mary heard today that Maria Thompson has also been, recently, very ill. More sad tidings: but no word about [Laurent?]. But let us leave the gloom awhile. <hr /> I failed to fulfill a promise I volunteered to have our pictures exhibited; not because I forgot---or did not wish to do so, but from a desire to have them perfect to other eyes than mine before they are published. All who have seen them are delighted---often to enthusiasm with the sentiment, the coloring, the---everything, in fact, except the portraits. And in all of them (except Lear, Richard 2nd, Shylock) there is an objection to <hr /> a fullness, or a roundness, or a something (which Mary can explain) in the faces that can easily be remedied. Looking at them while we (!) were at work on them we both looked through one pair of eyes; now when you are in the mood, and have no more important things to do, let us jab at ‘em until the (I think) very easily cured complaint is removed---it is not [chronic?] Do not let this [bore?]---or disgust you with what may seem my lop-sidedness of judgement. <hr /> I cannot judge at all correctly of likenesses---particularly of my own. I see my father in [Brutus?]---so does Joe Jefferson, who knew him well, but neither he nor Mary, nor indeed anyone recognizes me in that picture. (If that sentence is very much ‘off color’ it will have to stay so.) So, now good-night, my Jervy. I hope you will soon be here for a stay and that we may have many [smokes?] and growls together. I shall be free all winter and shall endeavor to be sociable, and to cultivate friends & be decent. All our loves to you and [yours?]Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 8 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300402 T1878.12.16-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1878-12-16 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth tells his friend, Jervis McEntee, that he has thought of him many times, intending to write. Booth encourages his friend to write to him without "the fear of wearying me." Booth recalls his own feelings at the loss of his first wife. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 68 Madison Ave: Decr 16th 1878 Dear Jervy – You must not think that when you left my ‘loaferie’ tother day that you then passed out of my memory; no, you are there forever. Not a day has since passed but I have said---‘now I must send a word to Jervy,’ but before I could settle down to my “pen and ink-horn” some untoward circumstances would <hr /> intervene and stay proceedings. Tonight I am free; no theatre, no callers---so have [illegible] [fun?] Because I do not answer, or comment on the contents of your last letter---so full of deep religious tenderness; so fraught with what all what all who know you appreciate in you, it must not check the impulse to let your feeling have full vent---in the fear of wearying me. All that you can say when you seek relief in words, spoken or on <hr /> paper shall be welcomed as a sacred trust. If I do not respond in such a manner as another might ‘tis not because I care not, but because I cannot. This you know, I know; and I am not afraid that you will misconstrue me if I prate of [wordly?] matters. I remember how sensitive my wound was, and how I winced at the seeming heartlessness of those who ignored it and talked to me of acting, for though I think I bore my blows bravely---yet there were many, many hours in the <hr /> dark days of my life when I would creep into and “eat my heart.” These moments come to you, & will return---frequently for a while, but the light will soon dispel the shadows---at least so soften them that the rich autumnal beauty of your woe will soothe and strengthen, not depress you. I am very awkward in expression---as you well know, but in the overflow of feeling I set all sail---regardless of risk, or whether you can follow me or not. But I am sure, if my meaning is obscure, that you will rightly guess at it. <hr /> Stedman passed the evening with us (yesterday) and charmed us all---would I could talk as he does! From what he said of Taylor I fear we shall lose him; private letters are very discouraging; but, perhaps, you know all this; and more than I have heard. Mary heard today that Maria Thompson has also been, recently, very ill. More sad tidings: but no word about [Laurent?]. But let us leave the gloom awhile. <hr /> I failed to fulfill a promise I volunteered to have our pictures exhibited; not because I forgot---or did not wish to do so, but from a desire to have them perfect to other eyes than mine before they are published. All who have seen them are delighted---often to enthusiasm with the sentiment, the coloring, the---everything, in fact, except the portraits. And in all of them (except Lear, Richard 2nd, Shylock) there is an objection to <hr /> a fullness, or a roundness, or a something (which Mary can explain) in the faces that can easily be remedied. Looking at them while we (!) were at work on them we both looked through one pair of eyes; now when you are in the mood, and have no more important things to do, let us jab at ‘em until the (I think) very easily cured complaint is removed---it is not [chronic?] Do not let this [bore?]---or disgust you with what may seem my lop-sidedness of judgement. <hr /> I cannot judge at all correctly of likenesses---particularly of my own. I see my father in [Brutus?]---so does Joe Jefferson, who knew him well, but neither he nor Mary, nor indeed anyone recognizes me in that picture. (If that sentence is very much ‘off color’ it will have to stay so.) So, now good-night, my Jervy. I hope you will soon be here for a stay and that we may have many [smokes?] and growls together. I shall be free all winter and shall endeavor to be sociable, and to cultivate friends & be decent. All our loves to you and [yours?]Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/ed7613bfd557a3b3578fa293dfbe0e17.pdf 351fe1acef6338de0454853ecce35af2 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. March 25, ‘79 My dear Stedman I have an impression that you said “tomorrow night” you might drop in and I find that I must be at Judge Doby’s. Any other evening (except Friday & Saturday) I shall be overjoyed to see you in my smokery. Perhaps it would be better that I wait [Smolly’s?] reply to yours before writing to Irving. I don’t know. Impress on Mr. S that the matter should be kept silent until it is concluded. Ever yours Edwin Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 1 p 36 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300403 T1879.03.25-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to E.C. Steadman Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-03-25 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes to E.C. Steadman to rearrange an appointment adding, "I shall be overjoyed to see you in my smokery." Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. March 25, ‘79 My dear Stedman I have an impression that you said “tomorrow night” you might drop in and I find that I must be at Judge Doby’s. Any other evening (except Friday & Saturday) I shall be overjoyed to see you in my smokery. Perhaps it would be better that I wait [Smolly’s?] reply to yours before writing to Irving. I don’t know. Impress on Mr. S that the matter should be kept silent until it is concluded. Ever yours Edwin Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/03c417b306b37921b6e662472f6b1a34.pdf 90e3712d7dbddd72c749a7e5548ce57b Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 8 p. 260 Ruggles Booth shot at Chicago April 27th/79 Dear Jervy For some time I have been trying to write to you but failed for want of matter, now I have something to tell---but already the papers have informed you of all that I do know concerning my wonderful escape, and I can but assure you of our safety and good health after such a shock as you may well imagine ours to have been. We were all terribly ‘shook’ <hr /> but thank God! no further bad results have ensued. Mary is all right again, & I am only occassionally scared, when I recall the horrible scene. It was really horrible! Imagine me---made up ghostly white---as the dying Richard, contemplating the miseries of life; in a dark dungeon; waiting the death which came so frightfully near reality. I tell you Jervy, none of my <hr /> many escapes from violent death (I think I’ve had a dozen!) ever impressed me so keenly with the sense of life’s uncertainty & the great goodness of Almighty God! Painful as the experience has been I hope I may never lose remembrance of it, but retain it as a check and guide through the rest of my journey. I sent you a paper a day or two after the occurrence, it contained all the knowledge that <hr /> can be extorted from the lunatic. The case will be up this week and I sincerely hope that he will be put out of reach of harm to others or himself. I have a great many letters to write---all on this topic, and therefore you will not be mad at this unsatisfactory and hasty scrawl. I hope to see you in three weeks, when I will give you all I shall then have gleaned of this affair. Our loves to you & yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300404 T1879.04.27-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-04-27 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes to Jervis McEntee regarding an attempt on his life by a lunatic (Mark Gray) just a few days previous, while he was on stage portraying Richard III. Booth confesses that this was a life changing event which he will never forget. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 8 p. 260 Ruggles Booth shot at Chicago April 27th/79 Dear Jervy For some time I have been trying to write to you but failed for want of matter, now I have something to tell---but already the papers have informed you of all that I do know concerning my wonderful escape, and I can but assure you of our safety and good health after such a shock as you may well imagine ours to have been. We were all terribly ‘shook’ <hr /> but thank God! no further bad results have ensued. Mary is all right again, & I am only occassionally scared, when I recall the horrible scene. It was really horrible! Imagine me---made up ghostly white---as the dying Richard, contemplating the miseries of life; in a dark dungeon; waiting the death which came so frightfully near reality. I tell you Jervy, none of my <hr /> many escapes from violent death (I think I’ve had a dozen!) ever impressed me so keenly with the sense of life’s uncertainty & the great goodness of Almighty God! Painful as the experience has been I hope I may never lose remembrance of it, but retain it as a check and guide through the rest of my journey. I sent you a paper a day or two after the occurrence, it contained all the knowledge that <hr /> can be extorted from the lunatic. The case will be up this week and I sincerely hope that he will be put out of reach of harm to others or himself. I have a great many letters to write---all on this topic, and therefore you will not be mad at this unsatisfactory and hasty scrawl. I hope to see you in three weeks, when I will give you all I shall then have gleaned of this affair. Our loves to you & yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/25203e554e31d9e7fe0e99c36d6d0373.pdf e2fa587b8026cc9f31359c10fff79f41 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 4th Dear Jervy Haven't seen thee for a very weary while - why? Because I've been so occupied on breathing days & so hot on others that it was not possible to visit your vicinity. I called yesterday to say "ta-ta", but <hr /> you were out. Tomorrow 9 a.m. we start for Saratoga to remain there as long as the climate agrees with us, perhaps 'till next Septr. Tell the Giffords we set an evening to visit them when a great rain fall prevented. The next day Mary was taken ill & kept her room <hr /> four days-with me as nurse; since her recovery we have both been very busy. Am sorry to leave for so long a time without seeing you. Hope you will have a happy summer, and be full of hope & health the while. Write to me at the Grand Union Hotel, Saratoga, when you have <hr /> a spare moment and nothing better to employ your mind with. Adieu! God bless you! Ever yours, Edwin Booth Jervis McEntee Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300405 T1879.07.04-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-07-04 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth tells Jervis McEntee that he (Booth) came by to say "ta-ta" before the Booths leave for Saratoga where they intend to stay "as long as the climate agrees with us." Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 4th Dear Jervy Haven't seen thee for a very weary while - why? Because I've been so occupied on breathing days & so hot on others that it was not possible to visit your vicinity. I called yesterday to say "ta-ta", but <hr /> you were out. Tomorrow 9 a.m. we start for Saratoga to remain there as long as the climate agrees with us, perhaps 'till next Septr. Tell the Giffords we set an evening to visit them when a great rain fall prevented. The next day Mary was taken ill & kept her room <hr /> four days-with me as nurse; since her recovery we have both been very busy. Am sorry to leave for so long a time without seeing you. Hope you will have a happy summer, and be full of hope & health the while. Write to me at the Grand Union Hotel, Saratoga, when you have <hr /> a spare moment and nothing better to employ your mind with. Adieu! God bless you! Ever yours, Edwin Booth Jervis McEntee Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/85e4b9710590c44f1d51fc8fcc3e8cec.pdf 3cf2012038d09709539e290f887eff4c Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 10 Saratoga=July 20th ‘79 My dear Jervy- My intention was to answer your letter the very day after its receipt, but one is no more master of his time than of his moods, you know, and I’ve been so whirled away by all sorts of careless, lazy nonsenses in this delightful loaferie that I’ve postively been unable to think of you---beyond wishing you were here with me. The absence of all dress & show, & the really homelike & jolly ease of our surroundings are utterly unlike any experience I’ve had of summer resorts, and I believe you would for awhile <hr /> be jolly too. There is just enough gayety (at a distance) to take you out of yourself---to make you all the more contentedly enjoy the temporarily deserted tenement. I have my gloomy moments tho’, even here, and can do as you do--- “shut myself up,” but I don’t keep me closed very long, for the fairy-like lights, illuminated fountains, music & gay troops of [others?], not yet so old as we, draw me out into a lighter atmosphere. I wish you would come here---if but for a few days---when you tire of <hr /> your present roost. We are not in the hotel proper, but have rooms in what is called a cottage---forming [one?] side of a grove & pretty lawn, where fountains & children play all day long. There’s no “bigod nonsense” about it, you know. There’s a something in the air, too, which seems to float you above the commonplace. If you’ll come we’ll do our best to let you alone, and soothe you with songs and pipes---Mary & I. I always love to hear from you, and almost fear to write to you,---because <hr /> your letters are so full of feeling, so full of yourself and mine are so barren; they can afford you no relief, no consolation, but do not therefore let them prevent you from easing your heart whenever you write to me---for all you say of yourself in your soul-loveliness is sacred and dearly welcome to me. I have told you this before, and you believe it. God bless you! Write often & come, if you will, where hearts full of welcome wait you. Always your friend Edwin Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300406 T1879.07.20-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-07-20 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes Jervis McEntee about his new surroundings in Saratoga. Booth expresses his love for McEntee's wonderful letters and regrets that his own are so barren and can afford no relief. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 10 Saratoga=July 20th ‘79 My dear Jervy- My intention was to answer your letter the very day after its receipt, but one is no more master of his time than of his moods, you know, and I’ve been so whirled away by all sorts of careless, lazy nonsenses in this delightful loaferie that I’ve postively been unable to think of you---beyond wishing you were here with me. The absence of all dress & show, & the really homelike & jolly ease of our surroundings are utterly unlike any experience I’ve had of summer resorts, and I believe you would for awhile <hr /> be jolly too. There is just enough gayety (at a distance) to take you out of yourself---to make you all the more contentedly enjoy the temporarily deserted tenement. I have my gloomy moments tho’, even here, and can do as you do--- “shut myself up,” but I don’t keep me closed very long, for the fairy-like lights, illuminated fountains, music & gay troops of [others?], not yet so old as we, draw me out into a lighter atmosphere. I wish you would come here---if but for a few days---when you tire of <hr /> your present roost. We are not in the hotel proper, but have rooms in what is called a cottage---forming [one?] side of a grove & pretty lawn, where fountains & children play all day long. There’s no “bigod nonsense” about it, you know. There’s a something in the air, too, which seems to float you above the commonplace. If you’ll come we’ll do our best to let you alone, and soothe you with songs and pipes---Mary & I. I always love to hear from you, and almost fear to write to you,---because <hr /> your letters are so full of feeling, so full of yourself and mine are so barren; they can afford you no relief, no consolation, but do not therefore let them prevent you from easing your heart whenever you write to me---for all you say of yourself in your soul-loveliness is sacred and dearly welcome to me. I have told you this before, and you believe it. God bless you! Write often & come, if you will, where hearts full of welcome wait you. Always your friend Edwin Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/c7762a5d47adbe72f5f97135d24fe0f0.pdf c03bc5f0a69639469dee632601fbf7ec Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 11 Barnum's Hotel Balto: Octr: 12th '79 Dear Jervy - Your country address---the one I last had from you---is in my desk at home, consequently I must 'Rondout' this at a venture. Just before your English friends came I had written you---to which letter I've had no reply & suspect that it never reached you. I am, as you well know, the worst cuss in [Xendan?] for entertaining purposes, & your introductory letter scared my boots off. However, I found the Britishers <hr /> very pleasant & sensible folks. He went with us to see Bandman, & I fancy he wished me at Helliopolis for the infliction; She did not accompany us on account of many things to be attended to prior to their departure. They both called the following day & admired the portraits very much, and I could see they were sincere. He gave me his home address & asked me to call when I go to England---which I shall certainly do. They had some friend who was to escort them to galleries & other places <hr /> therefore I made no attempt to chaperone them; a feat I should have bungled in the doing. I was glad to hear from them that you were cheerful & enjoying yourself. They talked Irving & Booton (he has Englishified his Bough,---it seems. You know they Coo-per, poor old Cowper, the poet, over there.) I see Bayard's house is for sale; I hope it will get into good hands, that Mrs. Taylor may receive a good price for it; but I fear the contrary---country real estate is always sacrificed. There is an eccentric fool at Cos Cob who built a house many years ago, & has not <hr /> yet removed the scaffolding from about it---in order to evade taxes, they say. When Launt & Maria once visited us---during a time that McVicker was also with us---I told the story & showed the house to Maria. She & McVicker joked about it, & she said she'd some day write an article on the subject & call it McViker's house. She has done so. "The house of McVicker" (quite ingenious, but rather droll I fancy -- but nothing at all like the true story) appeared in the last Atlantic. I judge from this that they are a little pushed; to have no better material in all these years. <hr /> The weather & mosquitos have been terrible here and my business in consequence has suffered. My health is much better than it has been for some months, but I am still undergoing medical treatment. I hope your summer ramble has built you up, spiritually as well as physically; if the former---the latter is assured, in your case. By-the-by, I hope your bodily ails proved less serious than you at one time anticipated & that you can lift & jump to your hearts' content. I am at present quite lame with sciatica. <hr /> If you can arrange to go to Europe---say next June, I am pretty sure that we shall be ready to share your 'sea-sick' with you. Misery loves company---especially such misery, you know, and we can hold each other's heads & moralize, 'til all's up, on this great sham of human happiness. This is supposed to be my native burgh; but I grew some twenty-five miles distant from the City Hall. The people profess a pride in the Baltimore Tragedian & "do me proud" on all sides. I must confess my <hr /> boyhood memories are anything but pleasant --yet, strangely enough, I feel an affection for---even the antiquated and uneven sidewalks I used to trudge o'er in my Kidhood. There's a little old schoolmarm, "Miss Susan", with glasses & cork-screw curls, still here. She taught me all I know---A. B. C., the sum total of my erudition. I always visit her---I'm her boy still, & she takes much pride in her pupil. Geo: Childs also was her scholar---so, she is pretty well represented, you see; by me, as a tragedy mummer; by him, as a first-class epitaphist and the friend of Grant. Did you ever have the ear-ache, in both Jeres, to wunst? I have that delectable sensation <hr /> now, and 'tis with difficulty that my wits are kept in hand (or head, rather). After six nights more in this city I go to Philadelphia (Broad Street Theater) for a fortnight, after which (Nov? 10th) I shall be at the Gr: Opera House---New York, & at home, I hope, for the entire winter. Mary & Edwina join me in loving regards to you, with kind remembrances to your folks. Drop me an occassional---frequently occassional---line, and be always cocksure that your letters will be welcome---the longer the welcomer. God bless you! Ever Yours Edwin Booth Jervis McEntee. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 8 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300407 T1879.10.12-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-10-12 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth converses with Jervis McEntee in a letter in which Booth talks about visiting guests who are English and how he enjoyed escorting them about. On the very last page, someone cut around the signature so that it is almost detached from the letter. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 11 Barnum's Hotel Balto: Octr: 12th '79 Dear Jervy - Your country address---the one I last had from you---is in my desk at home, consequently I must 'Rondout' this at a venture. Just before your English friends came I had written you---to which letter I've had no reply & suspect that it never reached you. I am, as you well know, the worst cuss in [Xendan?] for entertaining purposes, & your introductory letter scared my boots off. However, I found the Britishers <hr /> very pleasant & sensible folks. He went with us to see Bandman, & I fancy he wished me at Helliopolis for the infliction; She did not accompany us on account of many things to be attended to prior to their departure. They both called the following day & admired the portraits very much, and I could see they were sincere. He gave me his home address & asked me to call when I go to England---which I shall certainly do. They had some friend who was to escort them to galleries & other places <hr /> therefore I made no attempt to chaperone them; a feat I should have bungled in the doing. I was glad to hear from them that you were cheerful & enjoying yourself. They talked Irving & Booton (he has Englishified his Bough,---it seems. You know they Coo-per, poor old Cowper, the poet, over there.) I see Bayard's house is for sale; I hope it will get into good hands, that Mrs. Taylor may receive a good price for it; but I fear the contrary---country real estate is always sacrificed. There is an eccentric fool at Cos Cob who built a house many years ago, & has not <hr /> yet removed the scaffolding from about it---in order to evade taxes, they say. When Launt & Maria once visited us---during a time that McVicker was also with us---I told the story & showed the house to Maria. She & McVicker joked about it, & she said she'd some day write an article on the subject & call it McViker's house. She has done so. "The house of McVicker" (quite ingenious, but rather droll I fancy -- but nothing at all like the true story) appeared in the last Atlantic. I judge from this that they are a little pushed; to have no better material in all these years. <hr /> The weather & mosquitos have been terrible here and my business in consequence has suffered. My health is much better than it has been for some months, but I am still undergoing medical treatment. I hope your summer ramble has built you up, spiritually as well as physically; if the former---the latter is assured, in your case. By-the-by, I hope your bodily ails proved less serious than you at one time anticipated & that you can lift & jump to your hearts' content. I am at present quite lame with sciatica. <hr /> If you can arrange to go to Europe---say next June, I am pretty sure that we shall be ready to share your 'sea-sick' with you. Misery loves company---especially such misery, you know, and we can hold each other's heads & moralize, 'til all's up, on this great sham of human happiness. This is supposed to be my native burgh; but I grew some twenty-five miles distant from the City Hall. The people profess a pride in the Baltimore Tragedian & "do me proud" on all sides. I must confess my <hr /> boyhood memories are anything but pleasant --yet, strangely enough, I feel an affection for---even the antiquated and uneven sidewalks I used to trudge o'er in my Kidhood. There's a little old schoolmarm, "Miss Susan", with glasses & cork-screw curls, still here. She taught me all I know---A. B. C., the sum total of my erudition. I always visit her---I'm her boy still, & she takes much pride in her pupil. Geo: Childs also was her scholar---so, she is pretty well represented, you see; by me, as a tragedy mummer; by him, as a first-class epitaphist and the friend of Grant. Did you ever have the ear-ache, in both Jeres, to wunst? I have that delectable sensation <hr /> now, and 'tis with difficulty that my wits are kept in hand (or head, rather). After six nights more in this city I go to Philadelphia (Broad Street Theater) for a fortnight, after which (Nov? 10th) I shall be at the Gr: Opera House---New York, & at home, I hope, for the entire winter. Mary & Edwina join me in loving regards to you, with kind remembrances to your folks. Drop me an occassional---frequently occassional---line, and be always cocksure that your letters will be welcome---the longer the welcomer. God bless you! Ever Yours Edwin Booth Jervis McEntee. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/f199a029a4444e9e0e675d58f03140b4.pdf 18f96eb18dafeaa839aec1f5ea211ac2 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 12 68 Madison Avenue Novr 16th ‘79 O, Jervy! Where ist thou? I have twized called at your door with my quintuple rap, and no response! I’ll rap no more ‘till I hear for sartain that you are thar. Tonight we will try to find Gifford. Tho’ I am tired & very loungy---after a double-day’s duty yester: Hamlet at the Matinee & Ruy Blas, with Petruchio, at <hr /> night, and I feel more like sleep than chatting, yet the girls want an airing & we owe the Giffs a call; as, I shall shake myself together & make it. I intended to see you immediately after my arrival home therefore did not answer your last letter which I received---I think---a day or two before I left Philadelphia. Are the Vaux folks here & where? <hr /> This winter, I hope, we will get at the Hamlet jaw & eye, & also get up 3 more portraits: Petruchio, [Jul?] Cesar & Benedict---which will fill the box & make my set complete---at least sufficiently so,---there are, I believe, some twenty odd characters in my repertory; but some I very seldom act. The houses are nightly jammed & I shall continue Hamlet all this week---perhaps longer. <hr /> I’m not in a letter mood tonight & scratch this off hastily to ascertain your whereabouts & to let you know that we still live & love you. Remember us very kindly to your parents & the brothers & sisters, and count on me as ever thine. Edwin Booth P.S. Do I usually add the Booth? I forget---if not kick it out. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300408 T1879.11.16-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1879-11-16 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth inquires about McEntee's whereabouts since Booth called and did not found him at home. Booth goes on to tell McEntee that he is exhausted doing Hamlet at the matinee and another play in the evening. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 12 68 Madison Avenue Novr 16th ‘79 O, Jervy! Where ist thou? I have twized called at your door with my quintuple rap, and no response! I’ll rap no more ‘till I hear for sartain that you are thar. Tonight we will try to find Gifford. Tho’ I am tired & very loungy---after a double-day’s duty yester: Hamlet at the Matinee & Ruy Blas, with Petruchio, at <hr /> night, and I feel more like sleep than chatting, yet the girls want an airing & we owe the Giffs a call; as, I shall shake myself together & make it. I intended to see you immediately after my arrival home therefore did not answer your last letter which I received---I think---a day or two before I left Philadelphia. Are the Vaux folks here & where? <hr /> This winter, I hope, we will get at the Hamlet jaw & eye, & also get up 3 more portraits: Petruchio, [Jul?] Cesar & Benedict---which will fill the box & make my set complete---at least sufficiently so,---there are, I believe, some twenty odd characters in my repertory; but some I very seldom act. The houses are nightly jammed & I shall continue Hamlet all this week---perhaps longer. <hr /> I’m not in a letter mood tonight & scratch this off hastily to ascertain your whereabouts & to let you know that we still live & love you. Remember us very kindly to your parents & the brothers & sisters, and count on me as ever thine. Edwin Booth P.S. Do I usually add the Booth? I forget---if not kick it out. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/32763933a14ac3e5cf1273f8a85a1dc2.pdf 5c5ec1f20aaa213b09dd4685e5cd6f25 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. Feby 4th My dear Sir- I received your note and in reply regret to say I am unable to grant yr wishes. I have so many calls upon me that it is quite difficult for me at present to see my way clearly. I have already more pictures than I have room to place them - nor can I afford to indulge in such luxuries farther than I have already done. Had I only [failing to find?] me - provided I had the means, you should not be hindered in your pursuit of art; I admire & appreciate your sentiments but unfortunately cannot aid you in it. - [Urgent?] business <hr /> has prevented me from acknowledging the receipt of yr note (which in my [illegible] opened is respected by me) until now. In [illegible] haste & with sincere wishes for yr future welfare, I am yours truly E. Booth If the enclosed will assist you in defraying the rent of yr studio-accept it as a loan, which need not give you unnecessary [annoyance?] - relative to its return. E.B. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 2 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300409 T187?.02.04-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to unknown Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 187?-02-04 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes an unknown painter declining to purchase his work. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. Feby 4th My dear Sir- I received your note and in reply regret to say I am unable to grant yr wishes. I have so many calls upon me that it is quite difficult for me at present to see my way clearly. I have already more pictures than I have room to place them - nor can I afford to indulge in such luxuries farther than I have already done. Had I only [failing to find?] me - provided I had the means, you should not be hindered in your pursuit of art; I admire & appreciate your sentiments but unfortunately cannot aid you in it. - [Urgent?] business <hr /> has prevented me from acknowledging the receipt of yr note (which in my [illegible] opened is respected by me) until now. In [illegible] haste & with sincere wishes for yr future welfare, I am yours truly E. Booth If the enclosed will assist you in defraying the rent of yr studio-accept it as a loan, which need not give you unnecessary [annoyance?] - relative to its return. E.B. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/aff7fd6021f506cd747d8f83bdcee277.pdf 0adf91854b396e6c8b3c80f6a5086997 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. [13] Hotel Brunswick June 8th 1880 My dear old Jervy, boy - For once your impressions were at fault - I was not writing, but writhing when you wrote me - nea, and when I read your writing too, with a raging headache - which had bull-dozed me all the day. - I saw Hutton who said he had written & sent you the necessary paper. <hr /> I gave him the names of Vaux & other friends who had been omitted from the list of invitations. It is almost impossible to remember names - even the most familiar - when you endeavor to list your friends & acquaintances; only tonight did I think of Harry [Mogongle?] & and or two others quite as often in my mind. And now for you, sir! What the devil have I done that you <hr /> should be talking temperance to me? Have I given anyone cause - during the past decade, or longer - to suspect or fear that I had such a [Kink?] as you are trying to discover in my upright and dead-level behave-myself, sir? No, sir! But, for the love 'o' all the lords, my Jervy, don't put me under surveillance! If I am to feel the gall of eyes upon my actions I shall go mad! and I give you fair warning that if I catch you watching me I shall drink for <hr /> "your good health, and your fam'ly's, and may dey all lif long unt prosper" -every [drop?]. So, look out - that is, look another way from whar I set. Oh, my boy, I have at my elbow now, while I write, a glass of foaming lager & a crust of bread; my frequent night-cap err I snooze, but I'd not dare to do what you do when your head buzzes - drink a bottle o' champagne; that would floor me, quietly. Tis not likely that I shall drink at the break- <hr /> fast any oftener or any stronger that I do at any of the dinners that I have attended - where wine has flowed like gore at Marathon. (I presume gore did flow there - or was it at Bull Run? - I forget my Greek & things). If I'm awful scared I shall drink several pints of claret with a dash o' whiskey, maybe; just by way of a gargle before my eloquent belch - wh will consist of about 3//4 words of incoherence. <hr /> But - if I do, 'twil' be just because I know, or rather suspect that I am watched & criticised . Selah! [Veir?] has sent a couple of sketches for the album - one in pencil, t'other is in it looks like sepia, with an excellent letter; but he has done it for me - not for my wife. Benedict! [illegible] , what did you say? Of course it don't fit! and I got mad & swore it did, & hung it up. Its' got to do! - A sug- <hr /> gestion has been made by Jurvis Henri Browne, that some of your portraits shall be at breakfast with us. I seconded the motion - as delicately as I could, for I feel it to be rather out of place for me to take any step in a matter of this kind. I hope it will be carried out. Then some one has spoken of Hicks & his Iago - but I said nix (I mean I spoke not). Mary grew better for several days - but yesterday & today she went back with a flop. She <hr /> is decidedly better, however, or you would not find me so full of chat tonight. Edwina is home after a jolly independent spree, looking finely & very happy. It is getting late - my lager is low - my pipe fowl - my ink pale - my pen scratches - my eyes sleepy and my wits weary. So goodnight & bless thee & all of thine. Ever loving Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 8 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300410 T1880.06.08-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-06-08 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth asks Jervis McEntee, "What the devil have I done that you should be talking temperance to me?" He tells his friend that he cannot stand to have his actions watched, that it would make him drink more. He then speaks of foaming lager and a crust of bread at his elbow. He goes on about this theme and concludes that Mary has been better for several days, and Edwina is now back home. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. [13] Hotel Brunswick June 8th 1880 My dear old Jervy, boy - For once your impressions were at fault - I was not writing, but writhing when you wrote me - nea, and when I read your writing too, with a raging headache - which had bull-dozed me all the day. - I saw Hutton who said he had written & sent you the necessary paper. <hr /> I gave him the names of Vaux & other friends who had been omitted from the list of invitations. It is almost impossible to remember names - even the most familiar - when you endeavor to list your friends & acquaintances; only tonight did I think of Harry [Mogongle?] & and or two others quite as often in my mind. And now for you, sir! What the devil have I done that you <hr /> should be talking temperance to me? Have I given anyone cause - during the past decade, or longer - to suspect or fear that I had such a [Kink?] as you are trying to discover in my upright and dead-level behave-myself, sir? No, sir! But, for the love 'o' all the lords, my Jervy, don't put me under surveillance! If I am to feel the gall of eyes upon my actions I shall go mad! and I give you fair warning that if I catch you watching me I shall drink for <hr /> "your good health, and your fam'ly's, and may dey all lif long unt prosper" -every [drop?]. So, look out - that is, look another way from whar I set. Oh, my boy, I have at my elbow now, while I write, a glass of foaming lager & a crust of bread; my frequent night-cap err I snooze, but I'd not dare to do what you do when your head buzzes - drink a bottle o' champagne; that would floor me, quietly. Tis not likely that I shall drink at the break- <hr /> fast any oftener or any stronger that I do at any of the dinners that I have attended - where wine has flowed like gore at Marathon. (I presume gore did flow there - or was it at Bull Run? - I forget my Greek & things). If I'm awful scared I shall drink several pints of claret with a dash o' whiskey, maybe; just by way of a gargle before my eloquent belch - wh will consist of about 3//4 words of incoherence. <hr /> But - if I do, 'twil' be just because I know, or rather suspect that I am watched & criticised . Selah! [Veir?] has sent a couple of sketches for the album - one in pencil, t'other is in it looks like sepia, with an excellent letter; but he has done it for me - not for my wife. Benedict! [illegible] , what did you say? Of course it don't fit! and I got mad & swore it did, & hung it up. Its' got to do! - A sug- <hr /> gestion has been made by Jurvis Henri Browne, that some of your portraits shall be at breakfast with us. I seconded the motion - as delicately as I could, for I feel it to be rather out of place for me to take any step in a matter of this kind. I hope it will be carried out. Then some one has spoken of Hicks & his Iago - but I said nix (I mean I spoke not). Mary grew better for several days - but yesterday & today she went back with a flop. She <hr /> is decidedly better, however, or you would not find me so full of chat tonight. Edwina is home after a jolly independent spree, looking finely & very happy. It is getting late - my lager is low - my pipe fowl - my ink pale - my pen scratches - my eyes sleepy and my wits weary. So goodnight & bless thee & all of thine. Ever loving Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/539de334b84934df1bbd2f6678e30ccb.pdf 7b1bd0348dff38afc0a970083dc631f1 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 14 June 18th 1880 My dear Jervy I am more sorry than I can say not to have a chat with you before I sail. I’ve had a deal of trouble the past week---of a very serious nature, and the day I went to breakfast I was [fitter?] for my bed. That fact led me to do the foolish thing I hoped I would not do; I was so low-down & blue that I "tipped the rosy“ once too often & it upset me---a little. I was so sick from all the troubles that have huddled on my back of late & culminating just as I am about sailing, that I did not leave the house all next day & hoped you would call. <hr /> My wife got the tan-trums, the jim-jams, or the dim-dams & hell’s-bells (what you will) into her head the night before breakfast, & went to her Ma, at the Gilsey where she has been ever since. She concludes to remain with her parents for several months perhaps ‘till my return from Europe; but at the last moment she may change her course again. Now if you would only share my state-room, and let Julia Vaux share Edwina’s---how happy we two (and perhaps we four) would be! <hr /> Just for a few months, or weeks---if you please. The expense would be so insignificant compared with its pleasure & comfort we wd both get from you that I’d willingly quadruple it. This, of course, must be secret & will depend on the change of mind that may occur in the next few days. But if there is no change in that quarter, & you & Julia could pack up & go on short notice---why, bless you my boy! ‘twould put new life into the lot of us. (Forgive this mutilated sheet.) Think seriously of this--- ‘tis only for a short pleasure trip & keep it within your own circle---specially <hr /> about my domestic disturbance, but that’s idiotic to ask of you---I know you’ll be mum. Wish I could have a chance to open all my innards for you---perhaps you’d think you were not the most miserablestest mortal after all. Now, this proposition of mine is really no more than [illegible] to have us visit you---only it seems so. Edwina has her hands full & we both feel badly, of course. Everything being upset by this disturbance. I scratch in haste that you may have it for Sunday's consideration. Ever yours Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300411 T1880.06.18-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-06-18 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth confesses to Jervis McEntee that he is not feeling well because he was "so low, down & blue that I tipped the rosy once too often & it upset me a little." Now, his wife has "the jim-jams" and has gone to be with her parents. Booth is planning a trip to Europe and wishes that McEntee would share his stateroom and Julia Vaux could share Edwina's. Julia Vaux is the sister of Edwina's fiance. The bottom of the last page has been torn off. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 14 June 18th 1880 My dear Jervy I am more sorry than I can say not to have a chat with you before I sail. I’ve had a deal of trouble the past week---of a very serious nature, and the day I went to breakfast I was [fitter?] for my bed. That fact led me to do the foolish thing I hoped I would not do; I was so low-down & blue that I "tipped the rosy“ once too often & it upset me---a little. I was so sick from all the troubles that have huddled on my back of late & culminating just as I am about sailing, that I did not leave the house all next day & hoped you would call. <hr /> My wife got the tan-trums, the jim-jams, or the dim-dams & hell’s-bells (what you will) into her head the night before breakfast, & went to her Ma, at the Gilsey where she has been ever since. She concludes to remain with her parents for several months perhaps ‘till my return from Europe; but at the last moment she may change her course again. Now if you would only share my state-room, and let Julia Vaux share Edwina’s---how happy we two (and perhaps we four) would be! <hr /> Just for a few months, or weeks---if you please. The expense would be so insignificant compared with its pleasure & comfort we wd both get from you that I’d willingly quadruple it. This, of course, must be secret & will depend on the change of mind that may occur in the next few days. But if there is no change in that quarter, & you & Julia could pack up & go on short notice---why, bless you my boy! ‘twould put new life into the lot of us. (Forgive this mutilated sheet.) Think seriously of this--- ‘tis only for a short pleasure trip & keep it within your own circle---specially <hr /> about my domestic disturbance, but that’s idiotic to ask of you---I know you’ll be mum. Wish I could have a chance to open all my innards for you---perhaps you’d think you were not the most miserablestest mortal after all. Now, this proposition of mine is really no more than [illegible] to have us visit you---only it seems so. Edwina has her hands full & we both feel badly, of course. Everything being upset by this disturbance. I scratch in haste that you may have it for Sunday's consideration. Ever yours Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/a7a9f3b439d40397495b9c51238f2c11.pdf 6de1443bd5018a8907ca1ef6cd6604af Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 15 Glasgow, July 20th 1880 My dear Jervey I have deferred you 'til' I could locate some where long enough to write more than a mere reminder but it seems as though I am fated to be hurried---to be moved on from place to place without a breathing spell. Yet we are not "doing" Europe---but somehow we have everyday some where to go, which consumes the day, and at night we are fagged out. I want to write you a good long letter and shall do so---as soon as I get settled somewhere, but tonight ( 12.M) I am compelled to scribble <hr /> a breif howdydo & good night, for I must rise at six tomorrow to start for a Clyde tour. We reached here at 4 & Love Love the City. Bret Harte is Consul here---saw him today, for an hour only---as he is gone to London, not to return 'til' I am gone. Had a letter from [Hennessey?] full of gush, &c. I don't "tie to him" "very tightly anymore. "He soured on me," as the Arabs say. Our trip over was like a carol sail , & our tour of Ireland from the extreme [south?] to the northernmost end of the isle was very pleasant, <hr /> marred only by the fogs and rain which thrive there.Today we have had a full feast of sunlight. You know more about Europe than I can possibly tell you, & shall merely state the fact that we are all well & [thriving?] That not a day has passed but I have mentally said "now I must writ Jervy" & as it turned out, you know now I didn't 'till' now. We shall remain here a few days & then go to Edinburgh for several more prior to our English tour. I expect to be in London about the end of August & after a Couple of weeks there to go to catch a glimpse of the Passion <hr /> Play, which I desire to see as a study, not for curiosity. Have not yet written to either Launt or Boughton---indeed have had no chance to write anything that could be called a letter. This scenery so far is behind [America?]--as you doubtless know, but of course, antiquity & association render it very interesting. We have worn our winter clothing ever since we left New York. This is really a note to let you know that you are not forgotten & that I still live. You shall have a letter before many days pass. But don't wait for that---write soon & often Love to all. Ever yours---Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300412 T1880.07.20-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-07-20 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource While traveling through Scotland, Edwin Booth writes Jervis McEntee that even though they are not "doing" Europe, he has no idle time. Booth called on Bret Harte, the U.S. Consul to Scotland, but Harte was in London. Booth hopes to see the Passion Play and describes the scenery and weather. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 15 Glasgow, July 20th 1880 My dear Jervey I have deferred you 'til' I could locate some where long enough to write more than a mere reminder but it seems as though I am fated to be hurried---to be moved on from place to place without a breathing spell. Yet we are not "doing" Europe---but somehow we have everyday some where to go, which consumes the day, and at night we are fagged out. I want to write you a good long letter and shall do so---as soon as I get settled somewhere, but tonight ( 12.M) I am compelled to scribble <hr /> a breif howdydo & good night, for I must rise at six tomorrow to start for a Clyde tour. We reached here at 4 & Love Love the City. Bret Harte is Consul here---saw him today, for an hour only---as he is gone to London, not to return 'til' I am gone. Had a letter from [Hennessey?] full of gush, &c. I don't "tie to him" "very tightly anymore. "He soured on me," as the Arabs say. Our trip over was like a carol sail , & our tour of Ireland from the extreme [south?] to the northernmost end of the isle was very pleasant, <hr /> marred only by the fogs and rain which thrive there.Today we have had a full feast of sunlight. You know more about Europe than I can possibly tell you, & shall merely state the fact that we are all well & [thriving?] That not a day has passed but I have mentally said "now I must writ Jervy" & as it turned out, you know now I didn't 'till' now. We shall remain here a few days & then go to Edinburgh for several more prior to our English tour. I expect to be in London about the end of August & after a Couple of weeks there to go to catch a glimpse of the Passion <hr /> Play, which I desire to see as a study, not for curiosity. Have not yet written to either Launt or Boughton---indeed have had no chance to write anything that could be called a letter. This scenery so far is behind [America?]--as you doubtless know, but of course, antiquity & association render it very interesting. We have worn our winter clothing ever since we left New York. This is really a note to let you know that you are not forgotten & that I still live. You shall have a letter before many days pass. But don't wait for that---write soon & often Love to all. Ever yours---Booth Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/ec05149e6bf9f8c38b7b75de8d609010.pdf 15f9f0c3baef0b95c722423929bd75dd Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 16 Leamington Aug: 13th ‘80 My dear Jervy – I forget just where and when your letter caught me---somewhere near Chester, from which point I intended to write you & did begin a letter, after a breif call at Toft Hall, Knutsford, where the Leycesters dwell. They pressed us so earnestly to renew our visit---since we could not prolong it, that we could not resist their kindness & so---I destroyed the letter I began with the intention of writing a full account of our delightful visit. But we were hurried & tired & so days have elapsed without my putting pen to paper. Here we are near the actors’ Mecca yet am I calm; not the least anxiety do I feel to visit the shrine. Indeed the prosaic, matter-of-fact Present degrades the poetic, venerated Past. To rush by grand old castles, <hr /> venerable Abbeys, ivy-clad & fairly reeking with hallowed memories, in a rail-car, and finding the station “cheek by jowl" with ‘em knocks the stuffin out of one’s romance, and therefore I dread to find the house in Henly Street a mere museum of questionable antiquities and dubious relics. Of course I shall go there---if it kills me! But it will be the farewell to my long cherished dreams, I know. However, I’m used to waking up from pleasant dreams & facing stern realities, and I shall go---with the herd--- to see the show & to say “I’ve been there.” If all the guides were dead & only one or two visitors at a time could enter such sacred precincts, to think one’s fill & not be hurried through in such a show-shop, business-like way, ‘twould be delightful, but as it is---I’d rather see pictures of such places & <hr /> dream my little absurd dreams uninterrupted by the constant dropping of H’s---and shillings. Well, the Leycesters were sincerely pleased & overwhelmed us with kindly hospitality. Asked first of you, then of Church & wished you were both with us. So did I---so far as you were concerned, not knowing Church so well. We took rail to their little town of Knutsford, then a cab & caught ‘em at lunch. She is in mourning for her dead mother, but she pressed so hard that we had to promise a return (lack of shirts & [sick?] prevented our remaining that day) On Saturday night we went again & stayed ‘till Sunday evening. During the day (Sunday) Leycester, a Sir Hurbert, or Herbert Maxwell, M.P. & myself walked 4 (it seemed 40) miles over fields & fences, at a rapid rate, to a place called Tably---the queerest, quaintest, most delicious old [ruined?] Baronial Hall I ever imagined! To attempt descrip <hr /> tion of it would weaken the effect of any gush, therefore accept it as I have given it---a dear old, superb old, rotten old gem of a ruin! “My lord & my lady” Tably were at church near the Hall & when they came forth, followed by the slender congregation of country folks & tenants, I was introduced & the old gent (lord, I should say) took us through the Hall & explained many things about it. He is like a good old lazy farmer & lives close by, in a grand new mansion. He conducted me through & showed me some charming pictures. Several by Lawrence of his mother & other ladies & one (the only decent one I’ve seen) by Turner. One of his (Lord T.’s) god-father, Geo 4th, when P. of Wales, the only gift he ever received from his grace & for which he “my lord,” had to pay! After this we tead with lady T. on the lawn in front of the house. She was jolly & very gracious. <hr /> Mary & Edwina missed all this---the walk was too long, it used me up. Altogether we had a delicious time & regretted our departure as much as, I am sure, the Leycesters did. I found Cheshire/whose history I read while tothers went to church) full of Booths & to my surprise found the Booth arms carved in a panel in Leycester’s library. A Jane Leycester, sometime B.C., married a Booth. I threatened to dispute his title to Toft & bade him look up his title-deeds betimes. His lord Tably is Leycester’s cousin. If I can find the “missing-link” I shall put in my claim for all their estates. It turns up that my contemplated continental loaf for a year is frustrated. I have agreed to open the new Princess’s theatre in London sometime late in Octr., or in early November, whenever it is finished. <hr /> A success there will be a very serious thing, quite as much so as a failure would be. It may mean several years of Europe! There was but one chance that I could see---for at least another year, I mean beyond the year I set, and I dared not let the opportunity thus forced upon me, slip! I seized it & shall endeavor to make the best of it. After a few days here & a week or two more of travel I shall be in London for a rest before going to Ammergau, which place I yet hope to visit in time to see the “Play”. Then for serious work. The final turning-point in my twisted life, at least so far as my public career is concerned. If I miss it I shall bid farewell to my American friends & retire to <hr /> roost & rust. Whatever comes I have a heart for any fate! So soon as I get to London I shall endeavor to see Boughton & be assured, Jervy, I shall handle you discreetly---“afar off, as it were”. I had a gushing letter from [Hennessey?] some two weeks ago; have not yet answered it---don’t know if I shall do so. Do not love him as of yore; think he is too good; too sweet to last long. However, I’m inclined to deal kindly by all---if they’ll only let me do so. Poor old neglected Launt! I must write to him---although he dropped me long ago. You must be lonely indeed, Jervy, with your sister so far off & none but bad memories for your associates. I wish I could drop in & blow you up a bit. Dern [love?]! Wake up & gird your "lines" & flee. Never---away! <hr /> I have written thus far without referring to your letter, having looked it over I must tell you how glad I am that have determined to visit. Do so “everytime”---always whenever an opportunity offers, and in your case opportunities may be daily. All who know you love & respect you, & all are glad to have you at their houses, & you know hosts of the best people. I shall do as you advise---cultivate Smalley & others of that ilk, many of whom I shall doubtless find at Boughton’s too. I hardly think I shall feel like writing all I feel until I am settled “for good” somewhere---in London, I suppose, but occassionally I will [chuck?] for a chunk by way of appetizer for something better in the future. God bless you “JARVIS”. Write to me often. With our love to you & [James?]. Always a greeting of Edwin loving thoughts for Johnson & Gifford, Stedman and [Weis?]. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 8 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300413 T1880.08.13-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-08-13 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes Jervis McEntee about his travels in England and visit with the Lycesters. He talks about having tea on the lawn and seeing a picture of a Booth who lived before the birth of Chirst. He writes more about his travels and an upcoming meeting. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 16 Leamington Aug: 13th ‘80 My dear Jervy – I forget just where and when your letter caught me---somewhere near Chester, from which point I intended to write you & did begin a letter, after a breif call at Toft Hall, Knutsford, where the Leycesters dwell. They pressed us so earnestly to renew our visit---since we could not prolong it, that we could not resist their kindness & so---I destroyed the letter I began with the intention of writing a full account of our delightful visit. But we were hurried & tired & so days have elapsed without my putting pen to paper. Here we are near the actors’ Mecca yet am I calm; not the least anxiety do I feel to visit the shrine. Indeed the prosaic, matter-of-fact Present degrades the poetic, venerated Past. To rush by grand old castles, <hr /> venerable Abbeys, ivy-clad & fairly reeking with hallowed memories, in a rail-car, and finding the station “cheek by jowl" with ‘em knocks the stuffin out of one’s romance, and therefore I dread to find the house in Henly Street a mere museum of questionable antiquities and dubious relics. Of course I shall go there---if it kills me! But it will be the farewell to my long cherished dreams, I know. However, I’m used to waking up from pleasant dreams & facing stern realities, and I shall go---with the herd--- to see the show & to say “I’ve been there.” If all the guides were dead & only one or two visitors at a time could enter such sacred precincts, to think one’s fill & not be hurried through in such a show-shop, business-like way, ‘twould be delightful, but as it is---I’d rather see pictures of such places & <hr /> dream my little absurd dreams uninterrupted by the constant dropping of H’s---and shillings. Well, the Leycesters were sincerely pleased & overwhelmed us with kindly hospitality. Asked first of you, then of Church & wished you were both with us. So did I---so far as you were concerned, not knowing Church so well. We took rail to their little town of Knutsford, then a cab & caught ‘em at lunch. She is in mourning for her dead mother, but she pressed so hard that we had to promise a return (lack of shirts & [sick?] prevented our remaining that day) On Saturday night we went again & stayed ‘till Sunday evening. During the day (Sunday) Leycester, a Sir Hurbert, or Herbert Maxwell, M.P. & myself walked 4 (it seemed 40) miles over fields & fences, at a rapid rate, to a place called Tably---the queerest, quaintest, most delicious old [ruined?] Baronial Hall I ever imagined! To attempt descrip <hr /> tion of it would weaken the effect of any gush, therefore accept it as I have given it---a dear old, superb old, rotten old gem of a ruin! “My lord & my lady” Tably were at church near the Hall & when they came forth, followed by the slender congregation of country folks & tenants, I was introduced & the old gent (lord, I should say) took us through the Hall & explained many things about it. He is like a good old lazy farmer & lives close by, in a grand new mansion. He conducted me through & showed me some charming pictures. Several by Lawrence of his mother & other ladies & one (the only decent one I’ve seen) by Turner. One of his (Lord T.’s) god-father, Geo 4th, when P. of Wales, the only gift he ever received from his grace & for which he “my lord,” had to pay! After this we tead with lady T. on the lawn in front of the house. She was jolly & very gracious. <hr /> Mary & Edwina missed all this---the walk was too long, it used me up. Altogether we had a delicious time & regretted our departure as much as, I am sure, the Leycesters did. I found Cheshire/whose history I read while tothers went to church) full of Booths & to my surprise found the Booth arms carved in a panel in Leycester’s library. A Jane Leycester, sometime B.C., married a Booth. I threatened to dispute his title to Toft & bade him look up his title-deeds betimes. His lord Tably is Leycester’s cousin. If I can find the “missing-link” I shall put in my claim for all their estates. It turns up that my contemplated continental loaf for a year is frustrated. I have agreed to open the new Princess’s theatre in London sometime late in Octr., or in early November, whenever it is finished. <hr /> A success there will be a very serious thing, quite as much so as a failure would be. It may mean several years of Europe! There was but one chance that I could see---for at least another year, I mean beyond the year I set, and I dared not let the opportunity thus forced upon me, slip! I seized it & shall endeavor to make the best of it. After a few days here & a week or two more of travel I shall be in London for a rest before going to Ammergau, which place I yet hope to visit in time to see the “Play”. Then for serious work. The final turning-point in my twisted life, at least so far as my public career is concerned. If I miss it I shall bid farewell to my American friends & retire to <hr /> roost & rust. Whatever comes I have a heart for any fate! So soon as I get to London I shall endeavor to see Boughton & be assured, Jervy, I shall handle you discreetly---“afar off, as it were”. I had a gushing letter from [Hennessey?] some two weeks ago; have not yet answered it---don’t know if I shall do so. Do not love him as of yore; think he is too good; too sweet to last long. However, I’m inclined to deal kindly by all---if they’ll only let me do so. Poor old neglected Launt! I must write to him---although he dropped me long ago. You must be lonely indeed, Jervy, with your sister so far off & none but bad memories for your associates. I wish I could drop in & blow you up a bit. Dern [love?]! Wake up & gird your "lines" & flee. Never---away! <hr /> I have written thus far without referring to your letter, having looked it over I must tell you how glad I am that have determined to visit. Do so “everytime”---always whenever an opportunity offers, and in your case opportunities may be daily. All who know you love & respect you, & all are glad to have you at their houses, & you know hosts of the best people. I shall do as you advise---cultivate Smalley & others of that ilk, many of whom I shall doubtless find at Boughton’s too. I hardly think I shall feel like writing all I feel until I am settled “for good” somewhere---in London, I suppose, but occassionally I will [chuck?] for a chunk by way of appetizer for something better in the future. God bless you “JARVIS”. Write to me often. With our love to you & [James?]. Always a greeting of Edwin loving thoughts for Johnson & Gifford, Stedman and [Weis?]. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/b4d0f915b686d770d7615c0aeb14e27f.pdf f9c53233272e726310b447b58c33cfae Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 17 Hotel Continental 3 Rue Castiglione Paris 13th Sept 1880 My dear Jervy At Strasburg---three days ago---I read the news of poor, dear Gifford's death, and on my arrival here I found your letter announcing the same sad tidings. Your entire letter is very beautiful! I can fully appreciate you feelings, Jervy, after so long a loving intimacy with one so really lovable as Gifford. Great my misfortune not to have known him closer ---although my acquaintance with him covered many years, but as little as I did enjoy this acquaintanceship it was precious to me. He impressed all with the fact that he was a good man. Mary will write to Mrs Gifford---for <hr /> whom all our warmest sympathies are quickened, and to whom we three send our loving remembrances. We shall doubly value now the beautiful sketch he made for our album just before we left home. We have had rather a rough time since we left London. A hurried trip through Germany to see the Passion Play---encountering all sorts of disagreeables---to arrive here all-of-a dust with our best duds not yet arrived from London [where?] they were sent, per petite vitesse two weeks ago. In Germany---where "everyone speaks English or French"---we had great difficulty in being understood. We found hardly one in either town that could speak even decent German. D-n the boors.' But no, they gave us our first good cooking and clean rooms since we left the [steamer?] <hr /> except London---where things were tolerable---so I'll recant I forgive 'em. Did you visit Munich? Grand! The sculptures particularly & many superb paintings---as you are aware. A supposed Praxiteles (sleeping Faun)---the finest piece of marble I ever saw; pictures of it give no adequate idea of its grandeur. Hope you have seen it. The Passion Play---as a whole was one of the most wonderful things imaginable! The ensemble was perfect, but I discovered no individual excellence. See the many characters (some 200---not 500, as the printed descriptions tell) were beautifully and appropriately costumed and drilled in the minutest detail, but to the actor's eye there were many defects <hr /> which disturbed the harmony of the picture. The scourging for instance and driving of the money-changers from the Temple, were two examples of very great weakness which afforded splendid opportunities for powerful dramatic effects. Many such chances were lost throughout the wearisome eight hours performance, but as a whole & considering who the actors are---it was certainly wonderful! All tales regarding the impression of this acting on the spectators---sobbing, weeping &c &c, are wild imagings of some enthused novice. There was no such effect whatever, on the contrary---I'm inclined to suspect that most of the audience were very much fatigued , if not bored. Maier the Christus of whose acting so much is said, has beautiful <hr /> dark brown hair, very long, is tall, straight and dignified; with a very unsympathetic, sing-song voice; is without feeling and totally without a suggestion of beauty---his face being rather repulsive than otherwise. We were swindled out of our rooms and had the dirtiest hole in that most charming little village assigned us. From Thursday till Sunday night we suffered all sorts of disagreeables & were mighty glad to get back to Munich. Some Herald chap got hold of me here & talked [Ammergan?] with me & I daresay my opinions will be printed in that Journal. Tell Stedman & Winter what I think of the affair. I wish you knew the latter better---he is full of sympathy, and I believe it would do him good to mix a little with colors & oil. Try him. We have met many Americans, but sad to say---none that we are very proud to meet. I wrote Lamb before I left London & asked him to drop me a line here, but none has come. When I reach London, Octr 1st, I shall soon <hr /> 3 look up Boughton---but it may be a couple of weeks before I find him. I hope your picture got safely home. I was told that it was well hung, but that it had been better if placed in some other Gallery. I wish you had sent either the "wings of the morning" or come Autumnal leaves. Remember always that in the severest art a touch of "effect" (theatrical, if you will) is necessary. The Frenchman's dying Napoleon knocked Lamb's healthy old Corsican "gallery-west", you know, and I believe that your 'wings of the morning" would have scattered your "clouds" and many cloudy old daubs, out of the Academy. Try again next year---something for the eye, which must be first caught before the buyer's soul (which oft lyeth in the pouch) can be touched. We have been doing the Hippodrome & theatres here. D-n my awkwardness! That's not meant for your clouds: <hr /> 2 Aside from Coquelin who is really great in exquisite [funnisms?,] I saw no better acting at the Theatre Francois than I saw at Porte St Martin. The French was better, perhaps, but not for me---both tongues were Greek, so far as I could appreciate them, but the acting at both houses was quite equal. There's a great deal of "gammon & spinach", [my?] [cover?], about us theatrical artists; at least I-I-I fear so. At all events it looks so to a mean cuss like me, who pays his francs & takes his choice. [Toss?] me up tonight twixt the Porte and the Francois & I verily believe I should come up heads for the former---always excepting Coquelin of course. <hr /> At the "Porte" I saw the same actress ( [Mdm?] Laurent) act the same part nearly 20 years ago, and saw no difference in her acting or appearance. Today I went to Church (St Roch) with Edwina & am awful good in consequence, therefore you will excuse me for not doing as much as usual. Forgive me! Ill do better next time. Tomorrow we shall begin our tour of inspection about the city & expect to occupy some ten days with sight-seeing, of which I am heartily tired. Well, my wits are in the dry-rot now, I've told you all I know & have tried to be as jolly as 'tis' possible for me to be, and so---I'll leave Your lordship. Wife & daughter join me in love to all of you & yours. Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 8 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300414 T1880.09.19-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-09-19 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource In his letter to Jervis McEntee, Edwin Booth reports that he has reached France after traveling through Germany. He had trouble in Germany because no one spoke English, but they offered great cooking and clean rooms. With his "actors' eye" Booth found some defects with the Passion Play. He met many Americans abroad, but none that he was proud to meet. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 17 Hotel Continental 3 Rue Castiglione Paris 13th Sept 1880 My dear Jervy At Strasburg---three days ago---I read the news of poor, dear Gifford's death, and on my arrival here I found your letter announcing the same sad tidings. Your entire letter is very beautiful! I can fully appreciate you feelings, Jervy, after so long a loving intimacy with one so really lovable as Gifford. Great my misfortune not to have known him closer ---although my acquaintance with him covered many years, but as little as I did enjoy this acquaintanceship it was precious to me. He impressed all with the fact that he was a good man. Mary will write to Mrs Gifford---for <hr /> whom all our warmest sympathies are quickened, and to whom we three send our loving remembrances. We shall doubly value now the beautiful sketch he made for our album just before we left home. We have had rather a rough time since we left London. A hurried trip through Germany to see the Passion Play---encountering all sorts of disagreeables---to arrive here all-of-a dust with our best duds not yet arrived from London [where?] they were sent, per petite vitesse two weeks ago. In Germany---where "everyone speaks English or French"---we had great difficulty in being understood. We found hardly one in either town that could speak even decent German. D-n the boors.' But no, they gave us our first good cooking and clean rooms since we left the [steamer?] <hr /> except London---where things were tolerable---so I'll recant I forgive 'em. Did you visit Munich? Grand! The sculptures particularly & many superb paintings---as you are aware. A supposed Praxiteles (sleeping Faun)---the finest piece of marble I ever saw; pictures of it give no adequate idea of its grandeur. Hope you have seen it. The Passion Play---as a whole was one of the most wonderful things imaginable! The ensemble was perfect, but I discovered no individual excellence. See the many characters (some 200---not 500, as the printed descriptions tell) were beautifully and appropriately costumed and drilled in the minutest detail, but to the actor's eye there were many defects <hr /> which disturbed the harmony of the picture. The scourging for instance and driving of the money-changers from the Temple, were two examples of very great weakness which afforded splendid opportunities for powerful dramatic effects. Many such chances were lost throughout the wearisome eight hours performance, but as a whole & considering who the actors are---it was certainly wonderful! All tales regarding the impression of this acting on the spectators---sobbing, weeping &c &c, are wild imagings of some enthused novice. There was no such effect whatever, on the contrary---I'm inclined to suspect that most of the audience were very much fatigued , if not bored. Maier the Christus of whose acting so much is said, has beautiful <hr /> dark brown hair, very long, is tall, straight and dignified; with a very unsympathetic, sing-song voice; is without feeling and totally without a suggestion of beauty---his face being rather repulsive than otherwise. We were swindled out of our rooms and had the dirtiest hole in that most charming little village assigned us. From Thursday till Sunday night we suffered all sorts of disagreeables & were mighty glad to get back to Munich. Some Herald chap got hold of me here & talked [Ammergan?] with me & I daresay my opinions will be printed in that Journal. Tell Stedman & Winter what I think of the affair. I wish you knew the latter better---he is full of sympathy, and I believe it would do him good to mix a little with colors & oil. Try him. We have met many Americans, but sad to say---none that we are very proud to meet. I wrote Lamb before I left London & asked him to drop me a line here, but none has come. When I reach London, Octr 1st, I shall soon <hr /> 3 look up Boughton---but it may be a couple of weeks before I find him. I hope your picture got safely home. I was told that it was well hung, but that it had been better if placed in some other Gallery. I wish you had sent either the "wings of the morning" or come Autumnal leaves. Remember always that in the severest art a touch of "effect" (theatrical, if you will) is necessary. The Frenchman's dying Napoleon knocked Lamb's healthy old Corsican "gallery-west", you know, and I believe that your 'wings of the morning" would have scattered your "clouds" and many cloudy old daubs, out of the Academy. Try again next year---something for the eye, which must be first caught before the buyer's soul (which oft lyeth in the pouch) can be touched. We have been doing the Hippodrome & theatres here. D-n my awkwardness! That's not meant for your clouds: <hr /> 2 Aside from Coquelin who is really great in exquisite [funnisms?,] I saw no better acting at the Theatre Francois than I saw at Porte St Martin. The French was better, perhaps, but not for me---both tongues were Greek, so far as I could appreciate them, but the acting at both houses was quite equal. There's a great deal of "gammon & spinach", [my?] [cover?], about us theatrical artists; at least I-I-I fear so. At all events it looks so to a mean cuss like me, who pays his francs & takes his choice. [Toss?] me up tonight twixt the Porte and the Francois & I verily believe I should come up heads for the former---always excepting Coquelin of course. <hr /> At the "Porte" I saw the same actress ( [Mdm?] Laurent) act the same part nearly 20 years ago, and saw no difference in her acting or appearance. Today I went to Church (St Roch) with Edwina & am awful good in consequence, therefore you will excuse me for not doing as much as usual. Forgive me! Ill do better next time. Tomorrow we shall begin our tour of inspection about the city & expect to occupy some ten days with sight-seeing, of which I am heartily tired. Well, my wits are in the dry-rot now, I've told you all I know & have tried to be as jolly as 'tis' possible for me to be, and so---I'll leave Your lordship. Wife & daughter join me in love to all of you & yours. Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/7ae839b253f4f022d5bef005dd577eae.pdf 485ded0f11707c76920a85b3912efdcc Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300415 T1880.11.10-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-11-10 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth recounts to Jervis McEntee all of the problems going on with the play in England and says that the British mind is dead "to anything above burlesque " Booth conveys that his health is not good; Mary is weak and has lost her singing voice but that Edwina is well. Booth talks about upcoming roles. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20000 Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Start Transcribing https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/6cde700cd7b62d9097fabf53b04609a1.pdf fd96e836e1ef4ddb0cb3fc8bf2443052 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 18 Decr 5th 1880 St James’s Hotel Piccadilly. Dear Jervy – ‘Tis impossible to answer letters---yours of Nov 15th (one of my birthdays) is before me, but if I stop to detail it, line by line, I shall not get through half the correspondence that I have to accomplish this evening. [Stedman’s?] poem reached me, in print, before your copy came---but I shall keep your scrap. Poor, dear old Gifford! I lunched with Boughton tother day & he spoke very enthusiastically (I thought) of your portraits. They attract great attention & privately are highly spoken of, but the d-d press people here are an offish set. I have met a few, but not since I began work. I shall try to have the pictures put in <hr /> some Art gallery. The Boughtons (he, wife & sister– in-law) did not like my costume in Hamlet & consequently could see but little merit in the performance. I was too quiet & genteel---didn’t “belch” enough. In Richilieu my dresses are rich & I bellow much, ergo ---my Richilieu is great! The audiences of the glorious metropolis are very like those I have encountered in Milwaukee & Ypsilanti: polished plates. Somehow I have succeeded in [rousing?] them in Richilieu, but I cannot, for the life of me, realize that I am in great London town. ‘Tis likely the play will run ‘till the holidays. I am not hiding myself, Jervy, and I am <hr /> doing all I can to cultivate folks. Why, I even lunched at a Nob's house this very day & my [docter?] is spending the evening at Profr Huxley’s ---isn’t that making friends? I am [illegible] for the Lycesters---I suspected as much when I was at their place; but their retrenchment means, I suppose, [lopping?] off some paltry thousands per year. He came up for my opening night, but has company at present & cannot call again. I doubt if my Hamlet pleased him. I, too, miss our chats, Jervey; already I feel lost & would like to drop in on you occassionally. I seldom see [Clarke?] . Mary & Edwina are kept pretty well “on the go” & Boughton lives such a world away <hr /> that I haven’t time to visit him often. We are to dine with him next Sunday---or the next and with the [Millar’s?] and the Smalleys---et le Lord knows who else. His boozey old Ldship, Paget, called on me during the play last week & “wobbled” out something about ‘is ‘ighness a comin’ to ther play. Ear, hear & here are Yet, in English---remember when you come, the former pronunciation is Yankeeism. I’m writing a lot of twaddle ---can’t help it---am tired & dull and dyspeptic. If I even can I will write you a sensible letter. Maria, to Mary, says [illegible] is going home---from that I presume she will remain in Florence. He is silent. Smalley doesn’t letter me as he did Irving & Bernhardt. Why? Write often & don’t feel disaffected [illegible] my hurried scrawling. Love to you all. Ever yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300416 T1880.12.05-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-12-05 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth reports to Jervis McEntee that he is busy in London and praises McEntee's portraits. The Boughtons did not like Booth's costume in Hamlet and therefore found little merit in the performance; also, he didn't belch enough. At the end of letter, he mentions [Henry?] Irving and [Sarah] Bernhardt. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 18 Decr 5th 1880 St James’s Hotel Piccadilly. Dear Jervy – ‘Tis impossible to answer letters---yours of Nov 15th (one of my birthdays) is before me, but if I stop to detail it, line by line, I shall not get through half the correspondence that I have to accomplish this evening. [Stedman’s?] poem reached me, in print, before your copy came---but I shall keep your scrap. Poor, dear old Gifford! I lunched with Boughton tother day & he spoke very enthusiastically (I thought) of your portraits. They attract great attention & privately are highly spoken of, but the d-d press people here are an offish set. I have met a few, but not since I began work. I shall try to have the pictures put in <hr /> some Art gallery. The Boughtons (he, wife & sister– in-law) did not like my costume in Hamlet & consequently could see but little merit in the performance. I was too quiet & genteel---didn’t “belch” enough. In Richilieu my dresses are rich & I bellow much, ergo ---my Richilieu is great! The audiences of the glorious metropolis are very like those I have encountered in Milwaukee & Ypsilanti: polished plates. Somehow I have succeeded in [rousing?] them in Richilieu, but I cannot, for the life of me, realize that I am in great London town. ‘Tis likely the play will run ‘till the holidays. I am not hiding myself, Jervy, and I am <hr /> doing all I can to cultivate folks. Why, I even lunched at a Nob's house this very day & my [docter?] is spending the evening at Profr Huxley’s ---isn’t that making friends? I am [illegible] for the Lycesters---I suspected as much when I was at their place; but their retrenchment means, I suppose, [lopping?] off some paltry thousands per year. He came up for my opening night, but has company at present & cannot call again. I doubt if my Hamlet pleased him. I, too, miss our chats, Jervey; already I feel lost & would like to drop in on you occassionally. I seldom see [Clarke?] . Mary & Edwina are kept pretty well “on the go” & Boughton lives such a world away <hr /> that I haven’t time to visit him often. We are to dine with him next Sunday---or the next and with the [Millar’s?] and the Smalleys---et le Lord knows who else. His boozey old Ldship, Paget, called on me during the play last week & “wobbled” out something about ‘is ‘ighness a comin’ to ther play. Ear, hear & here are Yet, in English---remember when you come, the former pronunciation is Yankeeism. I’m writing a lot of twaddle ---can’t help it---am tired & dull and dyspeptic. If I even can I will write you a sensible letter. Maria, to Mary, says [illegible] is going home---from that I presume she will remain in Florence. He is silent. Smalley doesn’t letter me as he did Irving & Bernhardt. Why? Write often & don’t feel disaffected [illegible] my hurried scrawling. Love to you all. Ever yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/45c50bdde5e529a005b19b41fa64fc9b.pdf 4d20c7d6f7a7a8d1d88d1676be36bce1 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 19 Dec. 19th 1880 St James's Hotel, Piccadilly. My dear Jervy- Your letter did me good. It showed just the feeling that I've been often led to fear had died out of you. Keep it burning. As for the Boughtons--- well, I have lunched with and must dine with 'em, therefore must not criticize, but I share your notion regarding him to the full; as for his folks---I can't bet much on their ideas of artistic excellence, or opinions of art matters in any direction. This--- 'twixt ourselves---will sum up the lot: Miss Ward's success last season was so pronounced that they intended to call on her <hr /> but were prevented---fortunately for this season she failed & they don't care to patronize her! So much for so much. I presume my success is beyond doubt for I have lunched and will dine on 'em! Today I dine---for the 2d course---with Smalley, who has let me go gently by in his Tribune letters---yet he has seen me several times. His wife and family are very attentive & he is pleasant, but I don't think he regards my success as safe enough to write much about. Joseph [Hotton?], just from America, has sent a letter to the N.Y.Times---which ought <hr /> to appear tomorrow---if they print it at all. I wish I could have been at the Century to hear you good fellows talk of dear old Gifford. I can't realize that he is gone-or Billy Floyd, one of the last that I shook hands with at parting; he is the twelveth of my acquaintance (several of them dear friends) that have passed behind the veil since I left home. I don't think your remarks regarding your art & your own correct knowledge of yourself seems at all "irritable." They are solid truths & I recognize their applicability to myself in many respects. You assuredly do, and so do I, know best what is our best. My objection to the choice of picture for the Academy was based solely on the steep and subtle meaning---which always fails to reach the sympathies of purchasers & newspaper critics. <hr /> My business at the theatre is about the same as at the start---the pit & gallery are "sparsely settled" the stalls & boxes over-filled. I change the bill to "Fool's Revenge" on Monday. The critics are luke-warm, even quite cold & all of 'em sour. The public is "applausive" and the nobs I've met are enthusiastic & very hospitable. It is strange that [Leyuster?] should have visited the play tother night (Edwina saw him) without even a card to me. Somehow, I fancy that he fell off after his visit during my first week; but I may wrong him---or myself. God Bless you, Jervy, and send you a happy Xmas & many happier New Years that you've had of late. Mary is about the same-Edwina & I are [well?] All our loves to all of your folks. Sorry I can't give you longer letters. Ever thine Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300417 T1880.12.19-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880-12-19 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth writes Jervis McEntee that he still socializes with the Boughtons but he questions their taste in artistic excellence, and asks MeEntee to keep that thought "twixt ourselves." Booth speaks of dear old Gifford (artist Sanford Robinson Gifford?), and cannot believe that he is gone. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 19 Dec. 19th 1880 St James's Hotel, Piccadilly. My dear Jervy- Your letter did me good. It showed just the feeling that I've been often led to fear had died out of you. Keep it burning. As for the Boughtons--- well, I have lunched with and must dine with 'em, therefore must not criticize, but I share your notion regarding him to the full; as for his folks---I can't bet much on their ideas of artistic excellence, or opinions of art matters in any direction. This--- 'twixt ourselves---will sum up the lot: Miss Ward's success last season was so pronounced that they intended to call on her <hr /> but were prevented---fortunately for this season she failed & they don't care to patronize her! So much for so much. I presume my success is beyond doubt for I have lunched and will dine on 'em! Today I dine---for the 2d course---with Smalley, who has let me go gently by in his Tribune letters---yet he has seen me several times. His wife and family are very attentive & he is pleasant, but I don't think he regards my success as safe enough to write much about. Joseph [Hotton?], just from America, has sent a letter to the N.Y.Times---which ought <hr /> to appear tomorrow---if they print it at all. I wish I could have been at the Century to hear you good fellows talk of dear old Gifford. I can't realize that he is gone-or Billy Floyd, one of the last that I shook hands with at parting; he is the twelveth of my acquaintance (several of them dear friends) that have passed behind the veil since I left home. I don't think your remarks regarding your art & your own correct knowledge of yourself seems at all "irritable." They are solid truths & I recognize their applicability to myself in many respects. You assuredly do, and so do I, know best what is our best. My objection to the choice of picture for the Academy was based solely on the steep and subtle meaning---which always fails to reach the sympathies of purchasers & newspaper critics. <hr /> My business at the theatre is about the same as at the start---the pit & gallery are "sparsely settled" the stalls & boxes over-filled. I change the bill to "Fool's Revenge" on Monday. The critics are luke-warm, even quite cold & all of 'em sour. The public is "applausive" and the nobs I've met are enthusiastic & very hospitable. It is strange that [Leyuster?] should have visited the play tother night (Edwina saw him) without even a card to me. Somehow, I fancy that he fell off after his visit during my first week; but I may wrong him---or myself. God Bless you, Jervy, and send you a happy Xmas & many happier New Years that you've had of late. Mary is about the same-Edwina & I are [well?] All our loves to all of your folks. Sorry I can't give you longer letters. Ever thine Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/89b7f777230c813d07232bd5065ad1cf.pdf ea7c32e918a7e9f9cfb6556e7db37b61 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. Monday Dear Stedman Here are the tickets for three seats Wednesday night & the requisite 'props' for admission. Had a pleasant time at Hutton's last night but left early & came home to bed very tired from Saturday's work. With love for you all Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 1 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300480 T1880s-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to E.C. Steadman Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1880s Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth forwards tickets to E.C. Steadman for a performance and notes that he "had a pleasant time at Hutton's last night." Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. Monday Dear Stedman Here are the tickets for three seats Wednesday night & the requisite 'props' for admission. Had a pleasant time at Hutton's last night but left early & came home to bed very tired from Saturday's work. With love for you all Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/19b6808674f88198a5b59c614efd1e14.pdf 09c97ec8f95a2f715467c44bd3762d4a Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 20 Jan 30th '81 St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. My dear Jervy- I don't know if I ought to write to you today. I'm in the mood for it, but my time is limited---having to dine out in the course of two hours, and though that should be sufficient for an ordinary letter---yet the knowledge of such a doom hanging over one prevents a concentration of one's thoughts. Your last was read and burned, according to your wishes, though why it should have been destroyed I failed to comprehend. Although as I said, I'm in the mood for writing you---yet I doubt if it is 'wholesome' to let myself out to you at such times, 'twould be far better if I could distract you with jolly gabble and newsy gossip, but pent up as I am within the "wings" & "foot-lights" of the play-house I can tell you nothing that the papers have not already stated. I think I did let <hr /> myself out a little in my last---to which I hope to have an answer soon. Yesterday I had a note from Lycester, who says he will come to town next week. He saw in some paper that a "Land League" was forming at Rondout and wonders "if McEntee---?" I s'pose no & should tell him so. I'm so [jolly?] green in all such matters that really I don't know what this land league business is all about. I only know that Englishmen seem to be in a sort of "[freeze?]" about something or other that's going on in [Erin?] . No, I've not met Conway---strange, too, that I have not. To be frank---I've rather avoided my countrymen here; most of them who travel are so talky, so spread-eagley; I am sure that they have done me no good by their extravagant praises. I feel perfectly sure, however, that I shall (if time to do it be allowed me) overcome the little prejudice that still exists against me. As to my overestimation of my success here---it <hr /> may appear ungrateful---but really it seems to me a sort of kindly tolerance of something they do not quite appreciate. Many, in society, rave idiotically; some solid heads nod approvingly; the critics pat me gently on the back, & the audiences seem quite as well disposed as I could wish---but in spite of the talk---pro & con---& the fact that I've been steadily acting here since the 1st week of November, the audiences are smaller in number that one would think a real success shd attract. Judging from the Boughton's attentions I presume I am all right, but the Smalley makes me doubt. his wife & daughters are sociable & kind, he is courteous but as you see, his letters to the Tribune almost ignore me---or give but a passing notice of my acting here. Some screw's loose there. It is very difficult to keep from repeating what I've already written you for I have so many correspondents <hr /> now that I forget what I've said to each. You must be indulgent this time---for the hours are getting thin & my wits are wobbling. Six weeks more & then for a long loaf of---perhaps---six months, before I try the provinces. It may be I shall not act again in London for a year---owing solely to my own stupidity in being tricked by a rascally manager, [Gooch?] I'm now in the midst of Othello & Iago---which the critics fail to recognize as good, & compare me with some flop-eared [illegible] here, but those who do not write pronounce perfectly satisfactory. One writer, who finds fault in print, says in private I am the greatest actor he ever saw, & several such asides have been made by those who dare not (for some reason) say as much aloud. The severe winter is gone & the warm damp weather is with us again. The former agreed better with Mary than the present atmosphere. In my next I hope to be more sensible & interesting. Our loves to you all. God bless you. Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300420 T1881.01.30-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-01-30 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource In his letter to Jervis McEntee, Edwin Booth goes on for a full page about difficulty getting this letter written. He mentions the Land League, and knows that McEntee is not interested in it. He talks about acting and his career saying that the crowds are smaller than he might have expected. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 20 Jan 30th '81 St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. My dear Jervy- I don't know if I ought to write to you today. I'm in the mood for it, but my time is limited---having to dine out in the course of two hours, and though that should be sufficient for an ordinary letter---yet the knowledge of such a doom hanging over one prevents a concentration of one's thoughts. Your last was read and burned, according to your wishes, though why it should have been destroyed I failed to comprehend. Although as I said, I'm in the mood for writing you---yet I doubt if it is 'wholesome' to let myself out to you at such times, 'twould be far better if I could distract you with jolly gabble and newsy gossip, but pent up as I am within the "wings" & "foot-lights" of the play-house I can tell you nothing that the papers have not already stated. I think I did let <hr /> myself out a little in my last---to which I hope to have an answer soon. Yesterday I had a note from Lycester, who says he will come to town next week. He saw in some paper that a "Land League" was forming at Rondout and wonders "if McEntee---?" I s'pose no & should tell him so. I'm so [jolly?] green in all such matters that really I don't know what this land league business is all about. I only know that Englishmen seem to be in a sort of "[freeze?]" about something or other that's going on in [Erin?] . No, I've not met Conway---strange, too, that I have not. To be frank---I've rather avoided my countrymen here; most of them who travel are so talky, so spread-eagley; I am sure that they have done me no good by their extravagant praises. I feel perfectly sure, however, that I shall (if time to do it be allowed me) overcome the little prejudice that still exists against me. As to my overestimation of my success here---it <hr /> may appear ungrateful---but really it seems to me a sort of kindly tolerance of something they do not quite appreciate. Many, in society, rave idiotically; some solid heads nod approvingly; the critics pat me gently on the back, & the audiences seem quite as well disposed as I could wish---but in spite of the talk---pro & con---& the fact that I've been steadily acting here since the 1st week of November, the audiences are smaller in number that one would think a real success shd attract. Judging from the Boughton's attentions I presume I am all right, but the Smalley makes me doubt. his wife & daughters are sociable & kind, he is courteous but as you see, his letters to the Tribune almost ignore me---or give but a passing notice of my acting here. Some screw's loose there. It is very difficult to keep from repeating what I've already written you for I have so many correspondents <hr /> now that I forget what I've said to each. You must be indulgent this time---for the hours are getting thin & my wits are wobbling. Six weeks more & then for a long loaf of---perhaps---six months, before I try the provinces. It may be I shall not act again in London for a year---owing solely to my own stupidity in being tricked by a rascally manager, [Gooch?] I'm now in the midst of Othello & Iago---which the critics fail to recognize as good, & compare me with some flop-eared [illegible] here, but those who do not write pronounce perfectly satisfactory. One writer, who finds fault in print, says in private I am the greatest actor he ever saw, & several such asides have been made by those who dare not (for some reason) say as much aloud. The severe winter is gone & the warm damp weather is with us again. The former agreed better with Mary than the present atmosphere. In my next I hope to be more sensible & interesting. Our loves to you all. God bless you. Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/590648a00c75683928c3ca32e08c0817.pdf 93496673c8ec7ab2e35fcbd40a7a0233 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. (Upper left-hand corner notation; ANEEE) St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Edward Pierrepont Esq Dear Sir - If I again have the good fortune to visit Oxford before leaving England I shall certainly avail myself of your kindnefs. I was there some months ago but being an entire stranger I did not have a very 'good time'. I never had the pleasure of your father's <hr /> acquaintance - his name, of course, is well known to me & I shall be happy to meet his son. Thanking you for your courtesy and kind congratulations, I am truly yours Edwin Booth Feb. 6th '81 <hr /> (ENVELOPE FRONT) (POST MARK) London S.W. 7 FE 1 81 Edward Pierrepont Esq Christ Church Oxford <hr /> (ENVELOP BACK) (NOTATION ALONG ENVELOPE EDGE ON THE TOP LEFT) [illegible letters], 237, RECENT STREET, LONDON. (POST MARK) RD FE 7 81 Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 18 x 12 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300421 T1881.02.06-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Edward Pierrepont Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-02-06 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth replies to Edward Pierrepont regarding an invitation to visit Oxford. There is a photograph of Pierrepont in the Taper Collection. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. (Upper left-hand corner notation; ANEEE) St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Edward Pierrepont Esq Dear Sir - If I again have the good fortune to visit Oxford before leaving England I shall certainly avail myself of your kindnefs. I was there some months ago but being an entire stranger I did not have a very 'good time'. I never had the pleasure of your father's <hr /> acquaintance - his name, of course, is well known to me & I shall be happy to meet his son. Thanking you for your courtesy and kind congratulations, I am truly yours Edwin Booth Feb. 6th '81 <hr /> (ENVELOPE FRONT) (POST MARK) London S.W. 7 FE 1 81 Edward Pierrepont Esq Christ Church Oxford <hr /> (ENVELOP BACK) (NOTATION ALONG ENVELOPE EDGE ON THE TOP LEFT) [illegible letters], 237, RECENT STREET, LONDON. (POST MARK) RD FE 7 81 Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/ed4150610232e37efce597d8120be662.pdf 6c9b67742a0f9d4f9a98a943906e178e Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. St. James Hotel, Piccadilly. Dear Mr. Collier. I will be with you Friday--for which night I send my card, if you care to use it, for my performance of the Moor. Pray do not endure the torture in mere politeness. I shall not feel hurt in the least if you prefer to see some other play in which case you are perfectly free to send <hr /> the pass to some friend or destroy it. I have promised to perform the 4th act of Richelieu for somebody's benefit--at the Lyceum-- next week, I think, consequently I will require my outfit, but it shall be returned the following day & remain at your service as long as you may need it. I will send my man for it the <hr /> day before I want it. I hope Mrs Collier & you enjoyed the deviltries of Iago [illegible] night. I caught a casual glimpse of you once or twice. Very Truly Yours Edwin Booth Feb: 8th <hr /> LONDON - W 11 [FEB?] 9 81 John Collier Ex 7 Chelsea Embankment. <hr /> St. James's Hotel Piccadilly [LONDON S W?] [illegible] [FEB?] 9 [illegible] Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 5 p 18 x 12 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300422 T1881.02.08-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to John Collier Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-02-08 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth sends a ticket "for my performance of the 'The Moor;'" to John Collier. Booth requests that he be allowed to retain a costume for Richelieu; and asks if Collier enjoyed "the develtries of Iago the other night." Both paper and evelope are imprinted St. James Hotel, Piccadilly. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. St. James Hotel, Piccadilly. Dear Mr. Collier. I will be with you Friday--for which night I send my card, if you care to use it, for my performance of the Moor. Pray do not endure the torture in mere politeness. I shall not feel hurt in the least if you prefer to see some other play in which case you are perfectly free to send <hr /> the pass to some friend or destroy it. I have promised to perform the 4th act of Richelieu for somebody's benefit--at the Lyceum-- next week, I think, consequently I will require my outfit, but it shall be returned the following day & remain at your service as long as you may need it. I will send my man for it the <hr /> day before I want it. I hope Mrs Collier & you enjoyed the deviltries of Iago [illegible] night. I caught a casual glimpse of you once or twice. Very Truly Yours Edwin Booth Feb: 8th <hr /> LONDON - W 11 [FEB?] 9 81 John Collier Ex 7 Chelsea Embankment. <hr /> St. James's Hotel Piccadilly [LONDON S W?] [illegible] [FEB?] 9 [illegible] Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/7ffbd67f8f2ce668e7fc577128f1173b.pdf 373d246339baf35a70dc7b7ba24e066e Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 21 (Notation at top left-hand corner of page 1) March 1st '81 St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Dear Jervy -- I haven't written many letters lately -- only such as demanded immediate attention: I think I have several of yours unanswered -- certainly two of them. Excefsive fatigue -- an accumulation of bile -- but above all great anxiety are the causes of my inability to write to my friends. Only very lately have I been convinced of the fatal nature of Mary's disease -- although the doctor knew it from the first. 'Twas kept from me to prevent this very anxiety -- because of my engagement, and following the doctors' advice we have to deceive her in order not to hasten the end and to make the little remnant of her life as pleasant as pofsible. Sir Wm. Jenner was called in by our doctor, who is, himself, considered to be the best throat doctor in England, and they both agree that only a few months are left for her. She has so often said that she does not want to know it until a week at most before she dies that we all think it best to keep her ignorant of the fact -- so long as she is able to be about. <hr /> When I say that she eats nothing -- I do not greatly exaggerate her condition, the result is emaciation, of course, extreme weaknefs of body -- which only her indomitable will-power sustains, and a feeblenefs of mind -- which daily grows worse. A lofs of memory & inability to write the simplest note. When you consider how completely she has been the brain and guiding spirit of my family, how entirely dependent both Edwina & I have become on her superior judjement, you can imagine what utter confusion her helplefsnefs occafsions. Having to act heavy parts every night with the constant dread in my mind that she will be doing some outrageous thing, for her conduct & talk has been so queer of late that everybody notices it, & knowing that she is suffering with a cough that is terrible to hear, I have a strain upon me that is very hard to bear. Add to this my lofs of sleep on her account & you can understand my disinclination to write -- or do anything but die. For twelve years (nearly) I have nursed her like a sick baby, but despite the <hr /> care of this, and the evil that has been wrought by her semi-lunatic brain of late years, I feel for her that strong affection that the mother feels for the "black-sheep" of her family -- that love the prisoner has been known to have for his dungeon after years of hard confinement. I think of the moral slavery that both Edwina & I endure -- for the sake of quiet & for pity's sake, and regard death as our liberation, as well as a relief to the poor soul who suffers so; and then again I think of the desolation her absence will cause. If you knew how utterly helplefs both Edwina & I are you'd be amazed! All these years that Mary has controlled my domestic affairs she has not permitted the slightest interference on Edwina's part & my indolent nature has yeilded everything, only too glad to escape trouble. In one of your late letters you exprefs a confidence in Edwina's ability when the occafsion calls for the exercise of her powers that are now supprefsed, it may be you are right; I hope so -- but I greatly fear that she is in every sense her father's child; except her resemblance and her affectionate disposition I can see nothing of the Mother in her. Her mother had just the same executive faculty and much of the energy that Mary has -- that I have not, and which I greive <hr /> restricted. -- We dined with Leyester Sunday and would have had a pleasant time but for the fact that Mary was taken ill & the effects of Morphia which the doctor applied to her throat made her so queer that I was obliged to explain matters to Mrs Leyuster. The doctor has written to McVicker about Mary's condition & it may bring him or his wife over -- I hope not for they are very hateful to me & Mary, herself, has declared that she does not want her folks to know that she is ill -- nor does she wish ever to go back to America. The doctors say London, in spite of its fogs, is the best place for her & she likes the city & the people we have met better than others. -- Millois saw my Lear & was very enthusiastic; he exprefsed great admiration for those clever little pictures of me. Clever means a great deal in English, much more than in American phraseology. Lear has been the greatest succefs of my plays I've yet given & it will doubtlefs run out the rest of my term -- 4 weeks. Always give my love to all of your folks. I must hurry to an end with this -- for I would only be repeating myself should I write longer. God blefs you, old boy. Have not seen [Boylton ?] for a great while. Adieu! Yours ever Booth <hr /> St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 6 p 20 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300423 T1881.03.01-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-03-01 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth confesses to Jervis McEntee that he is very dispirited over his wife's illness. Doctors kept this news from him to prevent anxiety during his engagement; now he must keep the news from his wife "in order not to hasten the end" Sir William Jenner has been called in and agrees with Mary's doctor that she has only a short time to live. Mary's mental condition has declined, and it is hard to act heavy parts every night while worrying about her condition. The doctor wrote to Mary's father about her condition, which may bring him or his wife to London; Booth hopes not because "they are very hateful to me" and Mary doesn't want them to know she is ill. Booth received praise for his portrayal of Lear. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 21 (Notation at top left-hand corner of page 1) March 1st '81 St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Dear Jervy -- I haven't written many letters lately -- only such as demanded immediate attention: I think I have several of yours unanswered -- certainly two of them. Excefsive fatigue -- an accumulation of bile -- but above all great anxiety are the causes of my inability to write to my friends. Only very lately have I been convinced of the fatal nature of Mary's disease -- although the doctor knew it from the first. 'Twas kept from me to prevent this very anxiety -- because of my engagement, and following the doctors' advice we have to deceive her in order not to hasten the end and to make the little remnant of her life as pleasant as pofsible. Sir Wm. Jenner was called in by our doctor, who is, himself, considered to be the best throat doctor in England, and they both agree that only a few months are left for her. She has so often said that she does not want to know it until a week at most before she dies that we all think it best to keep her ignorant of the fact -- so long as she is able to be about. <hr /> When I say that she eats nothing -- I do not greatly exaggerate her condition, the result is emaciation, of course, extreme weaknefs of body -- which only her indomitable will-power sustains, and a feeblenefs of mind -- which daily grows worse. A lofs of memory & inability to write the simplest note. When you consider how completely she has been the brain and guiding spirit of my family, how entirely dependent both Edwina & I have become on her superior judjement, you can imagine what utter confusion her helplefsnefs occafsions. Having to act heavy parts every night with the constant dread in my mind that she will be doing some outrageous thing, for her conduct & talk has been so queer of late that everybody notices it, & knowing that she is suffering with a cough that is terrible to hear, I have a strain upon me that is very hard to bear. Add to this my lofs of sleep on her account & you can understand my disinclination to write -- or do anything but die. For twelve years (nearly) I have nursed her like a sick baby, but despite the <hr /> care of this, and the evil that has been wrought by her semi-lunatic brain of late years, I feel for her that strong affection that the mother feels for the "black-sheep" of her family -- that love the prisoner has been known to have for his dungeon after years of hard confinement. I think of the moral slavery that both Edwina & I endure -- for the sake of quiet & for pity's sake, and regard death as our liberation, as well as a relief to the poor soul who suffers so; and then again I think of the desolation her absence will cause. If you knew how utterly helplefs both Edwina & I are you'd be amazed! All these years that Mary has controlled my domestic affairs she has not permitted the slightest interference on Edwina's part & my indolent nature has yeilded everything, only too glad to escape trouble. In one of your late letters you exprefs a confidence in Edwina's ability when the occafsion calls for the exercise of her powers that are now supprefsed, it may be you are right; I hope so -- but I greatly fear that she is in every sense her father's child; except her resemblance and her affectionate disposition I can see nothing of the Mother in her. Her mother had just the same executive faculty and much of the energy that Mary has -- that I have not, and which I greive <hr /> restricted. -- We dined with Leyester Sunday and would have had a pleasant time but for the fact that Mary was taken ill & the effects of Morphia which the doctor applied to her throat made her so queer that I was obliged to explain matters to Mrs Leyuster. The doctor has written to McVicker about Mary's condition & it may bring him or his wife over -- I hope not for they are very hateful to me & Mary, herself, has declared that she does not want her folks to know that she is ill -- nor does she wish ever to go back to America. The doctors say London, in spite of its fogs, is the best place for her & she likes the city & the people we have met better than others. -- Millois saw my Lear & was very enthusiastic; he exprefsed great admiration for those clever little pictures of me. Clever means a great deal in English, much more than in American phraseology. Lear has been the greatest succefs of my plays I've yet given & it will doubtlefs run out the rest of my term -- 4 weeks. Always give my love to all of your folks. I must hurry to an end with this -- for I would only be repeating myself should I write longer. God blefs you, old boy. Have not seen [Boylton ?] for a great while. Adieu! Yours ever Booth <hr /> St. James's Hotel, Piccadilly. Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/1714a9934612f6cc646acd8bc20b0eba.pdf e239cf39527cf246bd5b5fcf029fde59 Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 22 Mar: 20th ‘81 St James’s Hotel Piccadilly Dear Jervy Only a rambling word or two. I have no heart for letter writing. I think I owe you two---but when you know how ill my over-work and great anxiety have made me you’ll look over my neglect. The doctors---three---have no hope for Mary’s recovery & very little for her return to reason, she has been insane an entire week, necessitating two nurses---to guard her day & night. So feeble that for two days past we have looked for her death at <hr />any moment. She is but a mere shadow, can eat but morsels. Thank God! my engagement terminates this week. I hope she will last through it. All advised me, some days, ago to place her in an asylum---but I could not bring my heart to do it, & now I’m glad I did not. Poor Edwina is being sorely tried---her duties now are manifold & I fear will affect her health---indeed she already shows the effects of her two-fold anxiety, on Mary’s and my account. Launt came early yesterday & was with me most of the time. he <hr /> has just left for bed & starts for Liverpool tomorrow to sail on Tuesday for N. Y. You will see him soon, therefore I will not say more of him . I find him changed only in his complexion, which does not indicate good blood. My dyspepsia in its most violent form came on with my worry of mind & for several weeks my tortures have been hell-like, rendering me utterly unfit for anything & interfering very seriously with my acting; I’ve barely had strength to pull through the performances at night. I close with Shylock & Petruchio for six nights <hr /> one of the actor's miseries---to simulate the emotions of another while his own are, wolf-like, tearing at his heart-strings. Every night that I go to the theatre I expect to be summoned to Mary’s death-bed. Poor, poor little girl! I must cease to think of her mistakes & recall only the good she tried to do, but wt a disordered brain frustrated. Your last letter was unusually cheerful & made me happy & hopeful for you. You may not hear soon from me after this; but you know the cause & will not, I hope, fail to write me often. Love to all your people. Ever & always yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300425 T1881.03.20-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-03-20 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth tells Jervis McEntee that Mary McVicker Booth is even sicker, and has been insane for at least a week, which necessitates two nurses. Doctors advise Edwin to place her in an asylum but he doesn't have the heart to do that. Much responsibility has been turned over to Edwina. His dyspepsia is bad and interfers with his acting. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 22 Mar: 20th ‘81 St James’s Hotel Piccadilly Dear Jervy Only a rambling word or two. I have no heart for letter writing. I think I owe you two---but when you know how ill my over-work and great anxiety have made me you’ll look over my neglect. The doctors---three---have no hope for Mary’s recovery & very little for her return to reason, she has been insane an entire week, necessitating two nurses---to guard her day & night. So feeble that for two days past we have looked for her death at <hr />any moment. She is but a mere shadow, can eat but morsels. Thank God! my engagement terminates this week. I hope she will last through it. All advised me, some days, ago to place her in an asylum---but I could not bring my heart to do it, & now I’m glad I did not. Poor Edwina is being sorely tried---her duties now are manifold & I fear will affect her health---indeed she already shows the effects of her two-fold anxiety, on Mary’s and my account. Launt came early yesterday & was with me most of the time. he <hr /> has just left for bed & starts for Liverpool tomorrow to sail on Tuesday for N. Y. You will see him soon, therefore I will not say more of him . I find him changed only in his complexion, which does not indicate good blood. My dyspepsia in its most violent form came on with my worry of mind & for several weeks my tortures have been hell-like, rendering me utterly unfit for anything & interfering very seriously with my acting; I’ve barely had strength to pull through the performances at night. I close with Shylock & Petruchio for six nights <hr /> one of the actor's miseries---to simulate the emotions of another while his own are, wolf-like, tearing at his heart-strings. Every night that I go to the theatre I expect to be summoned to Mary’s death-bed. Poor, poor little girl! I must cease to think of her mistakes & recall only the good she tried to do, but wt a disordered brain frustrated. Your last letter was unusually cheerful & made me happy & hopeful for you. You may not hear soon from me after this; but you know the cause & will not, I hope, fail to write me often. Love to all your people. Ever & always yours Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20 https://chroniclingillinois.org/files/original/791e01689820025d470669a2c11ca270.pdf b4cb6c0d2a2df0f152a7747ea63284ee Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 23 Weymouth Street, Portland Pl'ce 23 April 24th '81 Dear Jervy - I am positively ashamed of my letters to you lately. You have written me such excellent ones---touching me to the very core, yet have I been unable to do more than acknowledge their receipt by a few hurried lines of thanks and selfish moanings. The truth is, Jervy, my brain seems to be threadbare---I feel full of matter and take up my pen to give it vent when a daze comes over my mind & ideas (what few I may possess) fly off at a tangent and leave me in utter vacuity. For all this, Jervy, do not cease to write me just the same for fear your letters are unappreciated, indeed they are not; I keep them all and value them dearly. Under the strange and distressing con- <hr /> ditions to which I am now subjected you can, I know, fully understand just how helpless I am. What a complication of troubles are upon me! My professional success, so far, & its uncertainty in the future (here, I mean) is alone enough to keep me on tenterhooks. I am over run with invitations & various courtesies that cannot be slighted & wh. are a devilish bore to me at best, and the doubt as to the possibility of riveting my hold upon the English by another engagement (for this with Irving is but a few nights' spurt in characters I've already acted here)---and the uncertainty of Mary's condition; whether she will die soon, as the doctors predicted weeks ago, or live a lunatic, and the anxiety I feel for Edwina---whose complexion & frequent <hr /> ails convince me of her ill health---all these agonies drive me nearly distracted sometimes. Then to think that I have to endure the presence of Mrs. McVicker---a vile-tongued virago & slanderer, and shall soon have her husband too, a man who owes me gratitude and gives me unkindness in its stead,--- by Jupiter! my Jervy, the case is complicated, & twisted like the crown of thorns; intertwined and filled with painful prickles. Dear Edwina is, as you said she would be, brave and perfectly capable. She feels great pride in her responsibility & does all things remarkably well. indeed it seems now, at the end of her third week of actual housekeeping, as though she had been as it always; her mistakes have been so few & trifling that they serve merely as a foil to her successes. She is quite matronly---in manner, if not in appearance. She is doubly anxious, for me as well as for Mary---for whom, <hr /> of course, she retains great affection---despite the evils that have chilled the warmth of her filial love. and I worry a great deal on her account. If I were only free now I could start at once for the Continent & give her the advantage of baths &c at the various spas---but I'm kept in bondage by my engagements in the Provinces & Mary's sickness & so must take the chances. If Edwina breaks down I shall give up for "good & all". Mary's madness is assuming a violent form now. 'till recently she has been very docile. Edwina is at church & Mistress McWicked, my delicious mother-in-law, has just entered with a hell-cat's glare in her pale green eyes, so I'll quit you here, with a God Bless you! You see---not a word of you! all of myself, as usual. I expect [Hennessey?] every minute. Will tell of him in my report. Love to all your folks. Adieu! Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Original Format If the image is of an object, state the type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data paper and ink 4 p 21 x 13 cm Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 300428 T1881.04.24-MISC Title A name given to the resource Edwin Booth to Jervis McEntee Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Booth, Edwin Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1881-04-24 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Description An account of the resource Edwin Booth confides to Jervis McEntee that his life is troubled both professionally and personally. Mary's condition continues to deteriorate, and Edwina continues to accept more household responsibility. Mrs. McVicker is currently visiting and is described as "a vile tongued virago & slanderer" and expects his father-in-law to come soon. Booth worries about Edwina's health. He wishes he could take her to the continent for baths and spas but he is kept in bondage by his engagements and Mary's health. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Language A language of the resource en Scripto Manages transcriptions of items and files Transcription A written representation of a document or a page. 23 Weymouth Street, Portland Pl'ce 23 April 24th '81 Dear Jervy - I am positively ashamed of my letters to you lately. You have written me such excellent ones---touching me to the very core, yet have I been unable to do more than acknowledge their receipt by a few hurried lines of thanks and selfish moanings. The truth is, Jervy, my brain seems to be threadbare---I feel full of matter and take up my pen to give it vent when a daze comes over my mind & ideas (what few I may possess) fly off at a tangent and leave me in utter vacuity. For all this, Jervy, do not cease to write me just the same for fear your letters are unappreciated, indeed they are not; I keep them all and value them dearly. Under the strange and distressing con- <hr /> ditions to which I am now subjected you can, I know, fully understand just how helpless I am. What a complication of troubles are upon me! My professional success, so far, & its uncertainty in the future (here, I mean) is alone enough to keep me on tenterhooks. I am over run with invitations & various courtesies that cannot be slighted & wh. are a devilish bore to me at best, and the doubt as to the possibility of riveting my hold upon the English by another engagement (for this with Irving is but a few nights' spurt in characters I've already acted here)---and the uncertainty of Mary's condition; whether she will die soon, as the doctors predicted weeks ago, or live a lunatic, and the anxiety I feel for Edwina---whose complexion & frequent <hr /> ails convince me of her ill health---all these agonies drive me nearly distracted sometimes. Then to think that I have to endure the presence of Mrs. McVicker---a vile-tongued virago & slanderer, and shall soon have her husband too, a man who owes me gratitude and gives me unkindness in its stead,--- by Jupiter! my Jervy, the case is complicated, & twisted like the crown of thorns; intertwined and filled with painful prickles. Dear Edwina is, as you said she would be, brave and perfectly capable. She feels great pride in her responsibility & does all things remarkably well. indeed it seems now, at the end of her third week of actual housekeeping, as though she had been as it always; her mistakes have been so few & trifling that they serve merely as a foil to her successes. She is quite matronly---in manner, if not in appearance. She is doubly anxious, for me as well as for Mary---for whom, <hr /> of course, she retains great affection---despite the evils that have chilled the warmth of her filial love. and I worry a great deal on her account. If I were only free now I could start at once for the Continent & give her the advantage of baths &c at the various spas---but I'm kept in bondage by my engagements in the Provinces & Mary's sickness & so must take the chances. If Edwina breaks down I shall give up for "good & all". Mary's madness is assuming a violent form now. 'till recently she has been very docile. Edwina is at church & Mistress McWicked, my delicious mother-in-law, has just entered with a hell-cat's glare in her pale green eyes, so I'll quit you here, with a God Bless you! You see---not a word of you! all of myself, as usual. I expect [Hennessey?] every minute. Will tell of him in my report. Love to all your folks. Adieu! Edwin Status The current transcription status of a document or a page. Complete Percent Completed The percentage of pages with Completed status. 100 Weight A 6-digit number used to sort items quickly. 20