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NEWBURYPORT, MASS., _April 17, 1889_.
MY DEAR SIR: The description of your uncle's oratory will be so sure
to interest the reader, that it may come in almost anywhere, but best,
perhaps, where you mention his first notable speech. Remember, too,
that the author has, in his last chapter, not only a chance to "sum
up," but also an opportunity to slip in anything he may have omitted.
An interesting thing it is always to know how a strong man grew old,
what changes occurred in his manner, methods and character.
By all means, use the personal pronoun sparingly, and allude
unfrequently to your relationship. It is not necessary wholly to avoid
either. Deal with the reader honestly and openly. There may come
moments when calling him "my uncle" would be fair, and in the best
taste--but not often.
The ladies have the privilege of skipping. Make your late chapter
about the law practice in New York very full and clear. It will very
greatly interest everybody who will be likely to read the book. It is
the intrinsic worth of a book that is to be considered before all
things else.
I fear you are making the book too short. Mind: It _cannot_ be what is
called "popular." It _must_ appeal to the few. Ought it not to be two
volumes at five dollars?
Very truly yours,