The science of electricity itself was but an academic curiosity, and it was not until the telegraph had demonstrated that this mysterious force could be harnessed to the use of man, that other men of genius arose to extend its usefulness in other directions; and this, in turn, stimulated invention in many other fields, and the end is not yet. It has been necessary, in selecting letters, to omit many fully as interesting as those which have been included; barely to touch on subjects of research, or of political and religious discussion, which are worthy of being pursued further, and to omit some subjects entirely. Very probably another more experienced hand would have made a better selection, but my aim has been to give, through characteristic letters and contemporary opinions, an accurate portrait of the man, and a succinct history of his life and labors. If I have succeeded in throwing a new light on some points which are still the subject of discussion, if I have been able to call attention to any facts which until now have been overlooked or unknown, I shall be satisfied. If I have been compelled to use very plain language with regard to some of those who were his open or secret enemies, or who have been posthumously glorified by others, I have done so with regret. Such as it is I send the book forth in the hope that it may add to the knowledge and appreciation of the character of one of the world's great men, and that it may, perhaps, be an inspiration to others who are striving, against great odds, to benefit their fellow men, or to those who are championing the cause of justice and truth. EDWARD LIND MORSE. CONTENTS CHAPTER I APRIL 27. 1791--SEPTEMBER 8, 1810 Birth of S.F.B. Morse.--His parents.--Letters of Dr. Belknap and Rev. Mr. Wells.--Phillips, Andover.--First letter.--Letter from his father.-- Religious letter from Morse to his brothers.--Letters from the mother to her sons.--Morse enters Yale.--His journey there.--Difficulty in keeping up with his class.--Letter of warning from his mother.--Letters of Jedediah Morse to Bishop of London and Lindley Murray.--Morse becomes more studious.--Bill of expenses.--Longing to travel and interest in electricity.--Philadelphia and New York.--Graduates from college.--Wishes to accompany Allston to England, but submits to parents' desires CHAPTER II OCTOBER 31, 1810--AUGUST 17, 1811 Enters bookshop as clerk.--Devotes leisure to painting.--Leaves shop.-- Letter to his brothers on appointments at Yale.--Letters from Joseph P. Rossiter.--Morse's first love affair.--Paints "Landing of the Pilgrims." --Prepares to sail with Allstons for England.--Letters of introduction from his father.--Disagreeable stage-ride to New York.--Sails on the Lydia.--Prosperous voyage.--Liverpool.--Trip to London.--Observations on people and customs.--Frequently cheated.--Critical time in England.--Dr. Lettsom.--Sheridan's verse.--Longing for a telegraph.--A ghost CHAPTER III