The latter felt impelled to write Mr.Russell in regard to one of his newly published novels, and received in answer the following letter: July 21, 1886.
MY DEAR Mr.MELVILLE, Your letter has given me a very great and singular pleasure.

Your delightful books carry the imagination into a maritime period so remote that, often as you have been in my mind, I could never satisfy myself that you were still amongst the living.

I am glad, indeed, to learn from Mr.Toft that you are still hale and hearty, and I do most heartily wish you many years yet of health and vigour.
Your books I have in the American edition.

I have 'Typee, 'Omoo,' 'Redburn,' and that noble piece 'Moby Dick.' These are all I have been able to obtain.

There have been many editions of your works in this country, particularly the lovely South Sea sketches; but the editions are not equal to those of the American publishers.