Kennett Square, Penn'a.

March 5, 1869.

 

Dear Sir:

            I was absent in New York when your letter arrived, and my reply has thus been delayed. Although I have steadfastly declined, for many years past, to write any poem for an occasion, yet the coming dedication of the National Monument at Gettysburg is so exceptional in its character, and presents such claims to any service I may render, that I cannot decline the invitation with which you have honored me. I can only hope that I may be able to produce something worthy of the place and the event to be commemorated. with the assurance that you may rely upon my fulfilling the part which has been assigned to me, I am

                                                                                   

Very truly yours,

Bayard Taylor.

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