To T. W. Higginson

15 April 1862

Mr. Higginson,

        Are you deeply occupied to say if my Verse is alive?

        The Mind is so near itself – it cannot see, distinctly – and I have none to ask –

       Should you think it breathed –and had you the leisure to tell me, I should feel quick gratitude –

       If I make the mistake – that you dared to tell me – would give me sincerer honor – toward you –

       I enclose my name – asking you, if you please – Sir – to tell me what is true?

       That you will not betray me – it is needless to ask – since Honor is it’s own pawn–