LETTER: Autograph letter signed, to Francis Amasa Walker.
To “My long ago pupil and friend”
Stone, Lucy. Autograph letter signed, to Francis Amasa Walker; November 13, 1880; one leaf of “The Woman’s Journal” letterhead, recto and verso. Remnants of prior mounting at four points along the right edge.
Stone writes to Walker urging him to come to a meeting of the American Woman Suffrage Association, and emphasizes how his presence would be a boon to the organization. She attempts to entice Walker to attend a meeting by listing two former members of the American Woman Suffrage Association, “WL Garrison and Mrs. L. Maria Child” and three current members, “Col. S.W. Higginson, Abby W. May and Wm. Curtis.” She continues, “I wish very much to have you come and help us. I am sure you believe in the principle. And the time has fully come when a more cordial word from you, will be of infinite advantage to us, and to you sooner or later” (p. 1). Stone compares the efforts of the suffragists to gain support as being similar to those of proponents of the “anti-slavery cause.”
In Stone’s opinion, Walker would make a perfect addition to the AWSA because he is “respected and trusted by all parties – all know you have the courage of your opinions – and you are looked up to…it would be so much to our cause if you will come to a meeting and avow your belief in its justice!” (p. 2). She goes on to say that “it will be the beginning of the end when some one outside of our regular ranks, some one with influence which comes from personal wealth shall take our pact” (p. 2).
To further persuade him, Stone mentions other people she expected to be at the meeting and assures Walker that he would not have to speak: "Mrs. Lieberman, Mrs. Howe, Col. T.W. Higginson, Miss Eastman, Mr. Blackwell and others will be there as speakers, so no burden of the meeting need concern you; but a royal avowal is what I want."
In closing, Stone reminisces about her early relationship with Walker. “I did not think, thirty years ago when you were my pupil, I should ever be imploring help of you in this way. I know you are very busy – But it will be a great good thing to do. So pray write me you will do what I ask” (p.2). The tone of urgency in Stone’s letter is evidence of how much energy, passion and support was needed to keep the suffrage cause afloat.
Walker (1840-1897) was an American economist, journalist and educator from a prominent Boston family. When Walker was 14 years old, Stone was his Greek and Latin tutor; the next year, he entered Amherst College.
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