2005-03
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2005
Nicely penned two page letter from Kingston, Jamaica March 6, 1866 from a member of a very small community there, W. M. Sollas to Isaac Leeser, an old friend. It opens: "It is a long time since I grasped your honest and friendly hand…like myself you are getting old and I hardly can expect to realize the hope of again meeting you. You know I adopted you as my spiritual teacher and if it can afford you any pleasure,…I am indebted for the first teachings that gave me an impetus to study my Bible…it was your teachings that directed my studies. Living in a Christian community of thousands and the only one of possibly others for 40 years, I taught myself to be able to boldly stand before all and say 'I AM A HEBREW AND I FEAR THE LIVING GOD' never abashed to speak out and thank God to bring up a family of 11 children…in fear of God and observing his Laws. …[You may congratulate me] on the marriage of my eldest daughter and the engagement of two others…for now she is destined for Buffalo [N.Y.] and she is instructed to seek you and receive your blessing. I am not richer then I was, but poorer, yet contented and hold my head as boldly up as becomes an honest Israelite. …Allow me to introduce to your attention my young friend Mr. Lewin who leaves tomorrow for America. He has not been successful here in being elected as Reader of the sister Congregation. I believe simply because he is too young ! What a farce ! But this is an extraordinary community; the people do not go to synagogue to listen, to observe, but to criticize and they require a great reading, a great voice, a great preacher so my young friend was not allowed ever to try his capabilities. He goes to a country where I am sure he will succeed. I pray you do all you can to help him. I have known him for 15 months as a successful teacher, a pious, and observing Israelite and I think we lose in him a promising man. He is no prophet in his country, but will shine elsewhere…" Exc. Back sheet acts as cover with address.
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