ALS signed 'J. R. Lowell,' one page both sides, 4.5 x 7, February 7, 1887. Letter to James Wilson regarding the editing of Hawthorne and Longfellow. In part, 'I had already told Mr. Fisk that it would be impossible for me to do the Hawthorne...I should hardly have time to do the Longfellow as it should be done, for I could not even think of beginning it till I cross the water...The book seems to be excellently well done and I think I am a pretty fair average judge. Of course you must expect the criticism of specialists who lie and wait for all in such works.' In fine condition. RRAuction COA.