October 5th, 1846
New York City, New York
Dearest sir,
Thank you for your favor of the 27th ult., it joys my heart to hear of not just another disparaging critic, as those letters seem to be flocking around me and I would like nothing more than to meet up with you to have a chat. But with that said, I am the sorry bringer of dismal news and regret to inform you, that I cannot accept your kind offer as to my timetable is too filled for a long while.
I would hate for our meeting to be rushed as want it to be as energetic as possible, so that I do not send off the wrong vibe as we share a drink or two. Therefore I am hoping with my all, you would attend one of our shows and form your own opinion, perhaps get close to the crowds as well, see what energy they are giving us as we perform, for I can say with the right hand on my heart, the crowd is where the real magic is found.
If you find this proposition the least bit alluring, all I ask of you is to give me a date and we will make sure you have a splendid adventure in my circus.
I hope to hear more from you soon.
Respectfully,
P.T. Barnum
