2110-3-9-16

Millersburg, Pa., April 19, 1921.

Mr. John Buchan,

My Dear Sir:

I have just finished reading your most excellent stories in the last issue of "Adventure" on Abraham Lincoln. They were fine and wishing to address a communication to you, I have asked the publishers whether they would not kindly forward this letter to you as I do not know your address.

I am a student of the life of Abraham Lincoln, and have been for many years. I have a large collection of Lincoln literature, about 1400 items, and when I see something which relates to him, it attracts my interest. I was much interested to read your stories as they show a knowledge of the subject, while at the same time make mention of a time when Stanton met Lincoln previous to the McCormick Reaper patent suit of 1857 which he remembered only after the President's death. That is a statement I did not hear before. Will you please tell me whether there was any basis for the story you have so entertainingly woven around this first meeting in 1842, or whether you introduced it as an intersting bit of fiction? I am always after new facts connected with Lincoln's life, and this was a new one to me. I thought possibly there was some foundation for it, as the other incidents you have elaborated on, have the right ring to me. Did you not find your study of Lincoln fascinating? I always have. Have you written anything else on the martyr President? I should like to read it if you have.

Will be glad to hear from you, as I have always found that a kindred interest in things pertaining to Lincoln has been an "open sesame" to good fellowship.

Cordially yours,

John W. Starr Jr.