Letter from Eliza Cook, London, to William Martin, 1848 November 16 : autograph manuscript signed.

Concerning a proposed project in children's literature and setting forth her philosophy and her work; saying "Many thanks for your prompt reply to my note - but I confess I am so thoroughly scared by your decided prophecy touching my 'project' that my common sense of justice and delicacy must forbid any further attempt to propitiate your talent in such a hopeless and 'squeaking' cause. If it is not right to thrust our follies upon others, and so perchance it will be best to have a crew in my frail bark composed only of those who are ready to 'sink or swim' - for I [illegible] assure you I shall have neither 'buttered thunder' nor 'greased lighting' to offer the public. I have only a notion of providing sound, moral advocacy blended with amusing interest in the shape of Light Essays, Dissections of popular follies, Useful papers on all important topics of discussion, occasional Reviews, [illegible] Tales and a portion for the 'young', with gentle doses of my own mixture now and then. No [illegible] dogmas - no exclusive devotion to any class - no ultra doctrine of any character will be advanced. I am fully aware I may fail and am prepared to risk it, but I sigh for a more active life than I at present lead and shall be happy, even if I do not reach the point I am weak enough to hope for - 'Success'. I have a few friends among 'the people' for my ten years acquaintance has not yet tired them of my company if solid gold be a testimony of good will. My books sell rapidly and my name is not unknown - I have set my mind and energies on the whim and have found many to encourage me so the bubble will be blown though I may get the soap in my eye. It will be idle to consume your time my dear Sir in an interview, as you so evidently have no faith in the Talisman. I would not in any consideration incorporate the name of any writer whose judgment so entirely denounced the scheme yours does, and I only trust you will excuse the temerity that prompted my appeal to you. Mr. Kent begged me to address you and my own personal affection for your writings made the matter very easy, and I feel sure your good nature will forgive the attempt. Some future opportunity may afford me the pleasure of shaking hands with you and be assured my dear Sir you will never meet a more sincere admirer than / yours truly / Eliza Cook."