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Poetry Manuscripts

Table of Contents

[Leaf 1 recto]

245
2485

The Great Laws do not treasure chips, and or

stick for the odd cent;

I am of the same fashion—for I am their

friend.—

I rate myself high—I receive no small sums;

I must have my full price—whoever enjoys me.

I feel satisfied my visit will be worthy of me

and of my Hosts and Favorites;

I leave it to them how to receive me.—

Date: This manuscript was probably composed between 1850 and 1855, when Whitman was writing the poems of the first edition of Leaves of Grass.

Editorial note: "[The Great Laws do not treasure chips]" contains draft lines that appeared in a revised form in the eleventh poem of the first (1855) edition of Leaves of Grass. The poem was ultimately titled "Who Learns My Lesson Complete?" "[hands are cut by the]" contains draft lines that appeared in a revised form in the sixth poem of the 1855 edition of Leaves of Grass. The poem was ultimately titled "Faces."

Location: [The Great Laws do not treasure chips] MS 4to 9 | Trent Collection of Whitmaniana, Duke University Rare Book, Manuscript, and Special Collections Library.

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