2006-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2006
Single page (blank reverse) letter penned and signed by SOLOMON SOLIS a close friend and supporter of Leeser’s long drawn-out dissention with the congregation, writes to him from “Phila. Sept. 4, 1850” with the distressing news: “I presume that you have already been informed that the Cong. at their late meeting came to no action in regard to a Hazan. I understand Mr. Hart intended calling a special meeting on the subject. The Bye-Law was rejected by a vote of 20 to 8. I will give you the names, sub-rosa of those who voted in favor of it, for purpose some might not wish to be disgraced ! by its being known that they were in the minority.” Solis proceeds to name those favorable to the vote, including himself, ending with: “…Some who [I] thought would have voted for it, did not, so all hopes of its passing is now at an end. We shall expect you to sup and dine with us during the festivals when not specially engaged.” He then adds postscript: “They have done me the honor of appointing a ‘Hatan Torah’ in conjunction with Mr. Simon Arnold.” Although letter addressed only “Dear sir” it is obvious it was sent to Leeser; not only by that dinner invitation, but was well-known that Solomon Solis, a board member of the congr. was a very close and warm friend of Leeser who “…on several occasions took up his cause in religious disputations” and more (accompanied with photostats from two works on Leeser and Phila. Jews that support that fact). Letter aging; weak in few short places on centerfold and slightly tattered on extreme edge, lower blank margin with faint water staining upper margin in corner; all clear and readable
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