Letter from Edward Eggleston to Charles H. Phillips

311 ADELPHY ST. BROOKLYN, N. Y. 1st May 1873 Charlie H Philips My Dear Sir - I like the tone of your letter very much. I hope you may succeed in doing all you aspire to. May I advise you? Read widely, patiently, persistently. Read nothing but the very best books, see all you can of life & people, think of all you see, remember all you think & see. Whenever you write do your best, even in a "county newspaper". Let your health be exceeding precious in your sight. And reflect that all

literary effort is "an energetic strife after simplicity." And do not be in a hurry. Wordsworth was a model in this regard. Forgive my venturing to advise on the ground of the interest your letter excited in me, & when you come to New York come to see me. Sincerely Your Friend Edwd. Eggleston