2005-03
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2005
The local newspaper, in describing the dedication exercises referred to those Jews as: "generally peaceable, law-abiding, industrious and respected citizens…" Beautifully penned letter by their second rabbi ISAAC STROUSE from Wilkesbarre Dec. 23, 5613 [1853]. Three full pages in a beautifully penned hand with fine autograph signature; to Isaac Leeser. Strouse reminds Leeser he had earlier had the pleasure of meeting him at which time he "…presented to you my little work, styled 'polygloss-pocketbook' in six different languages. Pardon me for the liberty I now take by forwarding to you some sheets of a new work which since my reentering upon the duty of ministry here in Wilkesbarre has taken up my hours of leisure. It is the translation of D. Ottensoser's work called; [there then follows four lines beautifully lettered in Hebrew describing his work]…the merit of this work is mainly based upon the best historians of ours, as the authors of the books [four Hebrew words] and Josephus…" and describes categorically four specific sections of his new work: "…the author sought never to overlook any important fact and to relate in a noble and powerful style without to weary the curiosity of the reader with useless briefings [describing its inexpensive retail price]…I am of the opinion that a history of our people managed under such aspects and written in the vernacular cannot but prove great utility both to families and schools, but even to scholars…a work of that kind must open a wide field for investigations as it differs from other historians and offers acquaintance with a large part of Jewish literature"…and further describing the virtues of his translation, asking Leeser to take the time to read a few sheets and "…you, a most competent judge can easily decide whether a work of that kind will meet the taste of the public, or not. Have no regard for myself if you find fault with that what now is subject to your judgment and favor me with your opinion" and requests Leeser to mention the book in his next issue of OCCIDENT "…a few words of recommendation and to induce your agents to receive subscriptions…" Also requests some back issues of Leeser's periodicals. Some light, minor fading, but very clear and easily readable. Fine signature. Exc. +. With photostat of the history of the Wilkesbarre congregation and Strouse's service as its second rabbi between 1851-1853.
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