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  My dear Walt Whitman,

As one of the College Boys who feels honored by the hospitable reception given by you, Mr. Traubel, Dr. Bucke & others to our beloved master & representative Wallace on his recent visit to you, & who is grateful for the kind messages of love which you have so frequently sent to us, I wish to send you a word to convey my deepest sympathy for you in your long trying & painful illness. The latest   accounts of your condition have been read at our meetings & we have all been affected by your terrible sufferings. You are daily in our thoughts & it is very pleasing to know that notwithstanding your sickness thoughts of your Bolton friends are entertained by you & that we are so dear to you that though so deadly weak you have yet striven to send us a word of goodwill written by your own hand. I (& the others I am sure) feel very grateful for the act. & I return my best thanks.   Dr. Johnston has followed out your instructions & had the letter facsimiled & has kindly sent me a copy this morning with a printed extract from Traubel's letter relating to it & you. No doubt you will get copies sent to you. It is gratifying to know that in your fearful sufferings you still preserve your good stout heart & manly affections May these continue to support & cheer you. A life so well spent & sickness so bravely borne will not be lost on the world but will be quoted to this & future   generations as an inspirating example of nobleness bravery & fortitude

My wife (who is mailing her first (but not the last, I hope), letter to Mrs. Traubel today) joins me in a message of love & best wishes to you & I remain

Yours sincerely Wentworth Dixon

P.S. The engraved portrait with your autograph on my mantel reminds me that that is another favor. I have to thank you for.

To Mr. Traubel & Warry I send my most cordial regards.

WD.