Details:

John Boyle O'Reilly autographed handwritten letter (ALS), dated May 2, 1889, on official letterhead of The Pilot Editorial Rooms in Boston. Addressed to a Mr. Ernst, the letter discusses a political appointment and O'Reilly's disappointment over the failure to secure sufficient votes for a candidate named Cummings.

O'Reilly writes, in part: "I earnestly hope that the Mayor will send in Mr. Cummings' name again. I cannot understand the defeat, for a majority promised directly to vote for him, & I think they will do so next time."

Signed "John Boyle O'Reilly" at the conclusion.

An interesting example of O'Reilly's involvement in Boston political affairs during his tenure as editor of The Pilot, one of the country's most influential Irish-American newspapers.

The letter measures approximately 5.5 x 9 inches. Fine condition with light age toning, original folds, and a small rusty paperclip impression along the upper edge.

John Boyle O'Reilly (1844–1890) was an Irish-born American poet, journalist, author, and political activist who became one of the most prominent voices of the Irish-American community in the 19th century. As a young man, he joined the Irish Republican Brotherhood, or Fenians, and was subsequently convicted of treason against the British Crown and transported to a penal colony in Western Australia. In 1869, he escaped aboard an American whaling vessel and eventually settled in Boston, where he became editor and later part-owner of The Pilot. A passionate advocate for Irish independence, civil rights, and social reform, O'Reilly was also a celebrated poet and novelist whose works include Songs from the Southern Seas (1873) and Moondyne (1879).

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11705 1419716-1