Life and Letters of Oliver Wendell Holmes : Volume 1 (American Men and Women of Letters )

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1896. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... II. TO JAMES WILLIAM KIMBALL December 10, 1858. Mr Dear Sir, -- I write to thank you for your kind and truly Christian letter. The only regret I have felt was, that you seemed too fearful of giving offence. There is no need of further debate -- we understand each other pretty well -- kind souls both; and both, I believe, after the truth. It is well for me to have corresponded with you in one way, because it will make me more cautious of giving offence; bad in another way, for the goodness of men holding to ancient beliefs is the greatest obstacle to new truths -- and as no past century has failed to bequeath us new views in religion, somebody must give us new light in this. I should like to help, if I might; but though I have been sometimes rudely and (even of late) needlessly attacked on erroneous [representations] of what I have said, I do not like to offend good people; and if I err in this way it is as Saul did, thinking he was doing God service. But if somebody had not been offended a century ago, we should now have been hanging each other's grandmothers for witches. I hope to send you a copy of my book in a few days, when I get some that are to my taste. I should like a copy of your little book, referred to. I have not finished the other yet, but shall do it soon. March 8, 1800. My Dear Sir, -- Lectures being over, I am going to fulfil my promise, or threat, and send you a few thoughts on the subjects of your letter. Let me begin with two remarks. First, I have great pleasure in hearing you, or hearing from you, because I am entirely convinced of your kind spirit and sincerity, and that your Christianity has its true seat -- in the heart. Secondly, I have not the least personal desire to change any other person's faith, who lives in peace with God and man,...