{"value"=>"<p>Highlights of the collection are some of the Letters Received by Samuel Ward, many written by friends who were historical figures. Letters from Longfellow discuss intellectual and literary matters. Letters from Thomas F. Bayard and William Maxwell Evarts discuss social engagements and Samuel's lobbying. Other prominent correspondents are George Bancroft, C. C. Felton, John W. Francis, Jared Sparks, and George Ticknor. Fitz-Greene Halleck and the Earl of Rosebery are represented primarily by transcripts of their letters.</p> <p>There is a dearth of letters to Ward dating from his California and Latin, America period. Notable exceptions are \"confidential\" letters from Samuel Barlow regarding the procurement of gold and silver from Nicaragua and an 1854 commission to Ward to save the life of Count Raousset, imprisoned by President Santa Anna in Mexico. Unusual enclosures with other letters received are a musical program printed on satin, from 1839, and a Mathew Brady cabinet card of General William T. Sherman, autographed by the general.</p> <p>[other than family] - SEE: Index at end of box listing.</p>"}