J. McN. Whistler, Esq.
April 25, 1890.
Exit the Prompter
Sir—If it be not actionable, permit me to say that you really are delightful!!
Naïveté, like yours, I have never met—even in my long experience with all those, some of whose "agreeable literature" may be, I suppose, in the 807 cuttings you charge me for.
Who, in Heaven's name, ever dreamed of you as an actual person?—or one whom one would mean to insult?
My good Sir, no such intention—believe me—did I, in my wildest of moments, ever entertain.
Your scalp—if you have such a thing—is safe enough!—and I even think—however great my willingness to assist you—could not possibly appear in the forthcoming Edition.
To Mr. Romeike,
April 25.