Harlan, Richard (1796-1843) to John James Audubon
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04031.02 Author/Creator: Harlan, Richard (1796-1843) Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 February 1832 Pagination: 4 p. : address ; 25.2 x 20cm. Order a Copy
Addressed to John Backman in Charleston, South Carolina but noted that the letter is for Audubon. Thanks him for a recent letter containing interesting information which he has shared with others. Mentions that he received a letter from Mrs. Audubon and that the family is well. Mentions that the winter was very cold and wet which has effected the roads and the mail delivery. Discusses copies of Audubon's work and some plates that were included in error, specifically a hawk and a blue bird. Advises that both Mrs. Audubon and their son Victor want to discourage Audubon from visiting the area beyond the Rocky Mountains. Fears he is spending too much time in Florida and he should instead go to California to seek novelties in ornithology. Remarks, "The Eyes of the intelligent part of the world are upon you - and the opportunities which now open before you, will never occur again - with you alone the great work in which you are engaged must sink or swim." Indicates that he has read a review of his works and has sent Mrs. Audubon copies of what has been published in various journals and that Mr. Backman has them also.
Harlan, a natural historian, was a pioneer in the study of comparative anatomy and vertebrate paleontology in the United States during the years following the War of 1812.
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