A superb autograph letter by Ira D. Sankey [1840-1908] to Christian editor, William T. Stead, editor of the Pall Mall Gazette, and author of one of the most important books on the Welsh Revival. Stead routinely used his influence at the Pall Mall to amplify the voices of persons such as C. H. Spurgeon, D. L. Moody, etc.,
Three pages, dated to June 7th, 1884. It is headlined from Newington Green, #110, which was the home of the Medical Missionary Association, where people were trained for the foreign field. Sankey appears to have been staying there, perhaps having his voice looked at, which would explain his reply to Stead.
In the letter, Sankey claims his voice "is in no way damaged by the great strain which has been upon it for the last seven months." He then expresses the hope of resuming work with Moody in America after a few months' rest, gives the dates of his and Moody's return to New York and expresses regret at not being able to meet Stead during his stay in London.
Stead did manage to meet with Moody though and published, on July 12, 1884, "Moody and Sankey's London Campaign".
This was during Moody's second revival tour of England. The 7 months were a marked time of revival across England. Historians have noted that Moody and Sankey's two British tours were among the most transformative religious events of the second half of the 19th century.
Toned, folds tender. Scarce.