1883 C. H. SPURGEON. Superb 3pp ALS Regarding His Collection of Reformation Prints & Backsliding.

A very desirable, clean 3pp 1883 ALS entirely in the hand of Charles Haddon Spurgeon. In it, he opines over the backsliding days they live in and wonders about the remedial effect of mounting an exhibition of engravings related to the heroes and martyrs of the Reformation as Christian examples. 

This was a rather important passion for Spurgeon that to our knowledge never materialized. He bought extensively in the United Kingdom and the Continent over the course of the entire 1880's, hoping to create both a children's book and an exhibition. Neither of them came about that we are aware of. 

He did, however, give a lengthy address on the importance of Luther during the period. The original manuscript, which is extant, is over sixty pages in length and likely 2 to 3 hours to deliver. 

"Westwood
Beulah Hills
Upper Norwood

Jan 20 1883

Dear Friend

I am greatly enriched by the splendid volume of Luther's Life. I thank you with all my heart I purpose to make an exhibition of all the Reformation pictures when I get my collection somewhat more complete. Some of those out of the book might be enlarged if I can find an efficient draftsman & serve my purposes well. 

Your great kindnbess to me is a valuable consolation in this day of my trouble. I cannot lose my dear fellow-workers without sore regret. The Lord's comforts are neither few nor small, but human sympathy is also a very cheering thing. 

The Lord recompense to you in the most gracious manner all your goodness to me. May your heart sing for joy.

Miss Hupfeld also sent me some rare old prints & woodcuts which are all valuable to my collection.

I have been disappointed in London, where I cannot find a single old print-seller with a tendency towards look up religious rarities. In Scotland I am hoping to do better. 

Already your generosity has stored me well. I think that in these backsliding days, I might do good by exhibiting my Collection in the College Hall & elsewehere if I can once succeed in making it thoroughly interesting.

Yours ever heartily
& gratefully,
C. H. Spurgeon