Six Covers from John M. Gould ( Civil War Hero) to Edward S. Morse - Best Friend

John Mead Gould (1839-1930), a notable figure from Portland, left an indelible mark on history. Gould's legacy encompasses a multifaceted life that ranged from being a distinguished Civil War veteran to a respected bank clerk, an accomplished author, and a pioneering enthusiast of hiking in its early days. His enduring friendship with Edward Morse, forged during their time together at Bridgton Academy, speaks volumes about the depth of their connection.

Notably, Gould's influence extended to such a degree that Edward Morse named his own son (John Gould Morse) after his cherished friend – a testament to the profound bond they shared. Their camaraderie was founded on shared interests, with both men sharing a passion for the outdoors and the exhilarating pursuit of hiking.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of this remarkable story, "Hiking, Art & Science: Portland's White Mountain Club" authored by Candace Kanes presents an enlightening read. As someone who cherishes the experience of hiking myself, I can personally attest to the resonance of Gould's and Morse's hiking journeys. Their adventures not only echo through the past but also serve as a timeless source of inspiration for modern-day enthusiasts like me.

The covers/envelopes span a range of years: 1882, 1903, 1904, 1910, and two undated but ca.1900. Particularly intriguing is the 1903 cover, where Morse's middle name appears as "Suchpoetry" instead of Sylvester. Another piece from 1904 bears the inscription "Seboscodeganbuster." And the one from 1910 shows a question mark after Morse's first name "Edw ?". It's evident that Gould possessed a knack for humor, assigning such unique "nicknames" to Morse.

Of the collection, the piece from 1882 presented a puzzle. The return address, "Corbin Banking Company," was unfamiliar, and no immediate connection to Gould was apparent. Despite this, the handwriting undeniably matched other letters penned by Gould. This attribution gained further weight due to the fact that, as of March 18, 1882, Morse's presence was still in Salem, and his return to Japan was not scheduled until June of the same year.