May 23, 2013 - Sale 2316

Sale 2316 - Lot 223

Price Realized: $ 28,800
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 6,000 - $ 9,000
"JACOB VERSUS ESAU WAS A TRIFLE . . . COMPARED TO THE SKIRMISH IN MY MIND" DICKINSON, EMILY. Autograph Letter Signed, "Emili," to [Mrs. Holland] an unnamed recipient (lacking salutation), in pencil, concerning receipt of a box [probably a gift whose sender was not identified], and making reference to the story of Esau and Jacob [in Genesis 26-27]. 2 pages, 8vo, written on the first and third pages of a folded sheet; one leaf mounted at corners to a larger sheet. Np, [circa 1881]
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"Forgive the fervent Ingrate, if this time I am right, who had last week a bewitching Box and replied Elsewhere, "Elsewhere," replying this morning that "it isn't him," though he "would it were," and will keep the gratitude till the first Delight he may dare to send. Reexamining points strongly at you. It was Rose-colored Butterflies, threaded on a stem, with Antlers of Green, and three Branches of Golden Rod, though not like the Field's. Do you identify? Dare not thank you until I know, lest I miss again. Jacob versus Esau, was a trifle in litigation, compared to the skirmish in my mind."
Published in Letters of Emily Dickinson, eds. Johnson and Ward, 1958, No. 743.