It may not be generally known that our library contains some thirty volumes of Goethe's works presented and inscribed by the author. Goethe's interest in Harvard was aroused by his fried Dr. Cogswell, who, with Ticknor, Hedge and Bancroft, was among the first to rouse an interest in German learning in this country.
The following is a translation of the letter accompanying the gift:
"The above poetical and scientific works are presented to the library of the University at Cambridge in New England, as a mark of deep interest in its high literary character, and in the successful zeal it has displayed through so long a course of years for the promotion of solid and elegant education.
"With the high respects of the author,
"J. W. V. GOETHE. "WEIMAR, Aug. 11, 1819.
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