Pittsfield Nov 24th 1853
Gentlemen; – In addition to the work which
I took to New York last Spring, But which I was
prevented from printing at that time; I have one
in hand, and pretty well on towards completion,
another book – 300 pages, say – partly of nautical
adventure, and partly–or, rather, chiefly, of fortune
Hunting Adventure. It will be ready for press
some time in the coming January. Meanwllile,
it would be convenient, to have announced to me
when it $300. -My acct: with you, at
present, can not be very far from zmaze(?). For
the abbreviated advance – if remitted me now –
you will have security in my former works, as
well as security perspective, in the one to come,
(The Fortune-Hunters) because if you accede
to the announced request, this letter shall be
your voucher, that I am willing your house should
publish it, on the old basis – half – profits.
Reply immediately, if you please,
And Believe Me, Yours
Herman Melville
