Letter from John A. Steuart, London, to W. E. Henley, 1898 January 24 : autograph manuscript signed.

Saying "I do not presume to congratulate you on having been awarded £52.10p for your Essay on Burns : but as you will see from the accompanying copy of the "Publishers' Circular" I do congratulate the Academy on its appreciation of good literature. There are, one gladly owns, still some left who value real excellence, and for that reason the award gave me very great pleasure. The numerous references to it, I am glad to hear through trade sources, are creating a brisk demand for the reprint in quarters where the Centenary is considered too dear. You will observe that I notice some of the changes made in the reprint. They are fewer than I expected to find them : but they are sufficient. I have read the Essay again word for word and am more impressed than I was at first by its brilliance and power. It will live as long as men take any critical interest in the poetry of Burns. I have also done myself the pleasure of saying a word or two about your anthology. You have laid being a lover of Song under an obligation - especially for including so many fine old ballads - for rescuing them from oblivion it might fairly be said. The introductory Essay is of course masterly. Pardon me for saying so to yourself. The book stands on my shelf beside "A Book of English Prose." I should indeed be glad to pay you a visit when you are not too busy to be seen, & as we do not live very far apart perhaps I may have the honour some day soon."