This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2021
Offered is a handwritten and signed letter by Mark Twain, sent to the poet Charles Stoddard on March 17, 1875. Stoddard was a secretary to Twain for a brief period, and the two writers remained friends for many years. The letter reads:
Hartford, Mch 17. My Dear Stoddard: Yrs recd last night. What a horrible time you have had of it! I can not begin to appreciate it, though, because I never was bodily hurt in my life. But I had 8 cousins in one family every devil of whom had enjoed from one to two broken arms before reaching puberty. Think of it! Just been writing Finlay, who is in Rome, & goes presently to Venice. I never hear of Webb's book, & I don't belive it sells at all. I feel persuaded that your book would sell, by subscription. When you've got it ready, call here on one of your journeys, & I think we'll find a Hartford publisher. I think it very well worth your while to act upon this suggestion. About Mulford you surprise me. I wonder what has become of him. Wishing you better luck than you've been having, & good time generally. Yrs Ever Mark. Shall send this through Sir Thos Hardy.
Accompanied by a handsome, modern print of a portrait of Mark Twain. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentic. The letter measures 5 x 8 ¼ inches and presents with few distresses but is attached with conservator's tape to a paper frame. This could easily be removed by a professional restorer. Excellent to Mint condition.