We have pooled letters and documents in this section and at the same time have indicated a "Fair Market Value" (FMV) of these lots. We have done this so that you may appreciate the discounts offered. This is a contribution to our customers in an effort to reduce our large inventory. There are no additional discounts on these lots. The lots may not be returned, but we are certain that you will be pleased with your purchase.
LOTS DISCOUNTED – 70%
The following pooled lots are all priced at 50-70% below fair market value (FMV). Many of these pieces were acquired from Goodspeed’s Book Shop on Boston in 1995 when they went out of business. Seaport Autographs had the good fortune of obtaining a large portion of the autograph inventory of the shop. We are pleased to offer this material, which should be of interest to dealers as well as to individual collectors.
105156. (Statesmen – Lot) Harry Floyd Byrd (b.1887-1966). A Virginia politician, farmer and brother of Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd. He was a publisher of the Winchester (Va.) Star and from 1926 to 1930 was Governor of Virginia. In 1933 he was appointed U.S. Senator was later elected and served until 1965. TLS, 1p, 10"x8", Winchester, VA, 1924 Nov. 14. Fine. He writes to Hon. Joseph Button, "This is just a line to advise you that I have definitely determined to be a candidate for Governor. My public announcement will be made in a few days. Until then it would be better not to have any newspaper publicity..." PLUS Ann Douglas Beverly Byrd, his wife. ALS, 2pp (1st and 4th sides), Executive Mansion, Richmond VA, n.d. Very fine. A social letter to Mrs. Button. 2 pieces. Samuel James Ervin (b.1896). He was a U.S. Senator from North Carolina and a state Supreme Court justice before being appointed to the Senate. Subsequently elected, he served from 1954 to 1974. In 1973 he received national attention as chairman of the Senate Select Committee to Investigate Presidential Campaign Practices, which held televised hearings on the Watergate Affair and which led to the downfall of President Nixon. TLS after leaving Senate but on Senate stationery, 1p, 10"x8", Morgantown, NC, 1975 March 14. He is unwilling to help a legal client. Plus stamped envelope with his printed free frank signature. 2 pieces. John Thompson Hoffman. New York statesman who was elected mayor of New York City (1865-69) and governor of the state (1865-69). ALS a mayor, 1p, 9”x5½”, Mayor’s Office, New York, 1866 April 27. Very good. Slight marginal and fold wear. He responds to a request, probably for an autograph. John Edgar Hoover. Director of Federal Bureau of Investigation. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, Washington, 1946 April 30. Very fine. He responds to an autograph request. Herbert H. Lehman (1878-1963). He was a political leader who served as Governor of New York between 1933 and 1943 and U.S. Senator from 1949 to 1956. TLS as governor, 1p, 10"x8", Albany, 1933 Sept. 11. Fine. Small hole in upper left corner from staple and a small crayon docket. He writes of contacts that he has made. PLUS TLS as governor, 1p, 10”x8”, Albany, 1933 Jan. 13. Fine. Small crayon docket. It r elates to the appointment of Judge James A. Delaney for the office of Surrogate of New York County. 2 pieces. (Edward Shippen, Jr.) (1729-1806). A Pennsylvania jurist who became Chief Justice of the state after the American Revolution. During the Revolution his sympathies were with Great Britain. His third daughter, Margaret (Peggy), was the second wife of General Benedict Arnold. Peter Clair (?), MsDS,, 1p, 3”x4”, Philadelphia, 1869 May 1. Fine. It is a receipted invoice to Shippen for the purchase of beer. (Richard Nixon) (1913-94). President of the United States. Fine 6”x5” color photograph as president, mounted to heavy board (10”x8”) secretarially signed on lower board. 10 pieces. (FMV=$300.00). $150.00
10481. (Authors –English). Marie Belloc-Lowndes. British novelist. ALS, 1p, 9”x7”, Westminster, 1907 May 24. Fine. Tipped to a larger sheet. Sends an anonymous contribution for the benefit of W. L. Alden. Henry P. Brougham, 1st Lord Brougham and Vaux (1778-1868). .” A British statesman, scholar, author, and served as Lord Chancellor of England from 1830-1834. He designed the one-horse Brougham. Free franked address panel, 4”x8”, 1832 Sept 16. Fine. Slight marginal wear and tipped to larger sheet. It bears a crown cds with date and “FREE.” Sir Walter Besant (1836-1901). English novelist and humanitarian. He was one of the chief founders of the Society of Authors. ANS “W.B.” on a letterhead of Incorporated Society of Authors, 1p, 6”x5”, Lincoln’s Inn Fields, W.C., 1890 June 4. Fine. Tipped to larger sheet. In the letterhead is his name imprinted with that of Lord Tennyson, President. A ten-word memo in his hand. Edward Augustus Freeman (1823-92). English historian who wrote a 15-volume History of the Norman Conquest and other works. S on 3”x5” slip of paper, Oxford, 1891 Feb. 21. Fine. John Masefield (1878-1967). An English poet laureate (1930), playwright, and novelist. TLS, 1p, 8½x6½", Abingdon [England], n.d. [1940-45]. Fine. He explains that books may not be sent out of the country during the war without obtaining a special license. Charles Ramm Kennedy (1871-1950). An English playwright most noted for The Servant in the House, The Necessary Evil and The Idol Breaker. ALS, 1p, 7½"x6", New York, 1909 March 4. Fine. He is unable to address the Actor's Church Alliance. Edward Verrall Lucas (b.1868). An English essayist, traveler, and art critic who wrote novels and works on art. ALS, 1p, 7"x5", New York, 1934 April 11. Fine. He is unable to agree to a lecture. Thomas B. Macauley (1800-59). An English historian, statesman, author and poet. He served in the House of Commons and was Secretary of War. His greatest work was The History of England from the Accession of James the Second. S & closing clipped from a letter. Fine. Mounted. Henry Seton Merriam (1862-1903). An English novelist most noted for The Sowers & With Edged Tools. ALS, 1p, 5"x3½", London, 1876 Dec. 26. Fine. He thanks his writer for her compliments. Alfred Sutro. A British novelist and playwright. Two ALsS, 1p each, one on a card and the other on letter, n.p. [London], n.d. Fine. The letter is tipped to a larger sheet It concerns engagements. 10 pieces. (FMV - $575.00). 175.00
10487. (Entertainment). Eddie Cantor. Comedian and actor on vaudeville, early radio, TV and in films. S on 2”x4”: card. Fine. Helen Gahagan Douglas. Actress, Congresswoman and wife of actor Melvin Douglas. Bold 6" S in full on 4"x7" sheet, 1974. Three examples. Peter Duchin. Pianist and orchestra leader. PS, 8”x10”, [1983]. Very fine. Nathaniel (“Nat”) Goodwin (1857-1919). He was an American actor and comedian who performed on the legitimate stage and in vaudeville. His later roles were generally more serious. ALS on letterhead of Trafalgar Hotel, 1p, 8"x5", London, 1890, July 15. Fine. He seeks to settle a debt with the Gaiety Theatre. Plus an amusing newspaper cartoon of him. Sir John Hare (1`844-1921). English actor-manager who scored great successes in London, particularly with the Kendals at the St. James Theatre. ALS, 1p, 9”x5”, Boston, n.d. Very good. Some smudging of ink in text and in his signature. Fold line through signature and mounting strip on verso. It concerns a letter of introduction. Plus S of Gilbert Hare. Cyril Maude (1861-1951). English actor and theatrical manager who made his debut in Denver in 1883. He became very popular in The Second Mrs Tangueray, The Little Minister and other comedies. His most popular role was in Grumpy. ALS, 2pp, (1st & 4th sides), 5”x4”, England, n.y. Jan. 21. Fine. Slight soiling and mounting traces on blank sides. He thanks his correspondent for compliments and on a performance. Mitch Miller. Orchestra leader and arranger. IPS 10”x8”, B/W, [1973]. Very fine. It is inscribed on light portion in red ink, “To Walter – All best – Mitch Miller. A head and shoulder pose. Adelaide Ristori (1822-1906). Marchioness del Grillo. An Italian actress born into an acting family. She became a star at 18 in Schiller’s Mary Stuart. She married the Marquess del Grillo in 1846 but continued her theatrical career. In addition to Italian roles, she played in classical French dramas in Paris that stirred up intense controversy between her admirers and the great Rachel at the Comédie Francaise. Her genius was also recognized on a visit to the United States in 1885. ANS in Italian, 1p, 8”x5”, n.p., n.d. Fine. The is a one line quote not translated, but it is signed “Adelaide Ristori Del Grillo.” Edward A. Sothern. Shakespearean actor and husband of actress Julia Marlowe. S on 2”x4” card. Fine. Mounted to a larger sheet. Mary Anderson (Mary de Navarro) (1859-1940). An American actress and author who toured the U.S. and England in Shakespearean roles. In 1896 she married Antonio de Navarro. ALS "Mary de Navarro,” 4pp, 6"x4", Worcestershire, 1902 April 10. Fine. It is a social letter concerning a visit. ALS “Mary de Navarro,” 1½pp, 6”x4”, n.p., n.d. Fine. A friendly social letter and thanks for bread. George Burns. Comedian and actor, IPS, 10”x8”, [1977]. Very fine. Sir Arthur Wing Pinero (1855-1924). An English actor and playwright, most noted for The Second Mrs. Tangueray, The Benefit of the Doubt, Iris, The Thunderbolt and many other plays. ALS on mourning stationery, 1p, 7”x5”, [London],1921 June 21. Very good. Mounting traces on verso with slight show-through. A social note. Plus original stamped envelope with holograph address. Fritzi Scheff (1899-1954). Star of the musical stage and in silent films. Two Ss on 2½”x3½” cards. Both fine, but one with mounting traces on verso. Ernestine Schuman-Heink (b.1861). Bohemian-American operatic contralto. S with date, 1934, 8”x6” page. Fine. On the same page is S of balloonist Maj. Chester Pordney and on the verso, S of Emily Roosevelt. 21 pieces. (FMV - $700.00). $210.00
10491. (Great Britain – Statesmen & Military). Harold Wilson. Prime Minister of Great Britain. S on address portion of an unstamped envelope, with cachet of “Radio Canada International.” 3 ½”x6½”, n.p., n.d.. Very fine. Sir Anthony Eden. British Prime Minister. S on 2”x4” card. Fine. Indent at top from paper clip. Plus covering secretarial letter. £ Charles Bradlaugh (1833-91). English social reformer and MP. S + sentiment on 3"x4" slip of stationery. William Henry Lytton Early Bulwer, Baron Dalling & Bulwer (1801-72). He was an English author, diplomat, M.P., Ambassador to Spain and Minister to Washington (1849-52). He negotiated the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty (1850) which pledged neutrality on the projected canal across Central America. He was an author of biographical and political works. ALS as Ambassador to U.S., 2pp, 7"x4½", [Washington], 1850. Fine. Small archival paper repair on verso. He invites a friend to visit him in Washington. ¨ ALS, 4pp, n.p., n.d. [ca.1856]. Very good. Slight soiling and irregular right margin on 2nd leaf for previous mounting. Does not affect text. He is annoyed at pressure on him to pay off a mortgage, "In regard to my brother's security for the covenant I see harm in that. He only covenants that I am not a rogue..." ¨ Also ALS, 2pp, 7"x5", 1871 Jan. 11. Good. There is moderate fading of the text but is legible. The S is fine. Routine content. ¨ Plus an ALS of S. L. (?) Bulwer, not further identified. It is a dinner invitation. Sir Vicary Gibbs (1752-1820). An English jurist who served as Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, Attorney General, Solicitor General and as a member of the Privy Council. MsDS on vellum, 5”x9”, [London], “Easter Term 49, Geo. 3d.” Fine. It is a concluding portion of a document as attorney general. Plus a photo print of Gibbs, mounted. Frederic Harrison (1831-1923). British jurist, historian and sociologist. ANS on postcard, Hawkhurst, Kent, 1904, Jan 25. Fine. It is French quote. Henry John Temple Palmerston (1784-1865). Premier, Secretary of War and head of Foreign Office. LS, 1½p, 13"x8", Foreign Office, 1849 Sept. 26. Very good. Blue transfer stains from another document affecting lower margin, not touching signature. It concerns appointing a British Consul at Buffalo. Sir Edward Thornton (1817-1906). Ambassador to Washington. 3rd person ALS, 1p, 7"x4½", Clifton House, 1872 Oct 2. Fine. He is unable to accept an invitation. ¨ William Ballantine (1812-87). He was appointed Sergeant at Law in England in 1856. Ballantine was most noted for the prosecution of murderer Hans Muller (1864), the divorce suit of Mordaunt vs. Mordaunt and defense of the gaekwar of Baroda (1872). ALS, 1p, 6"x4½", n.p., n.d. Very good. Mounting traces on verso, slight soiling and with margins slightly trimmed. It is a dinner invitation. ¨ Lt. Gen. Sir William Congreve (d. 1814). Comptroller of the Royal Laboratory at Woolwich. Congreve, he was made a baronet in 1812. He was the father of William Congreve, the inventor of the Congreve rocket. Partly printed MsDS, 1p, 9"x8", [London], 1792 Feb. 28. Fine. Left and bottom margins trimmed, not affecting the text. ¨ Charles Russell (1832-1900). He was Lord Chief Justice of England. ALS, 2pp, 8"x5", Paris, 1899 Sept. 11. Fine. Minor wear. Small fold breaks on verso repaired with archival paper. He regrets that he has been too busy to write, but "finally I come to the conclusion that until I get this Venezuelan arbitration off my mind I can do nothing else.." As one of the arbitrators in the British Guiana / Venezuela boundary dispute, Russell ‘took little part in the discussion' but directed attention to the vital points.” (DNB). Plus photo (halftone) of Russell. 18 pieces. (FMV - $230.00). $70.00
10494. (Autograph Collection). Nicholas Murray Butler(1862-1947). President of Columbia University and winner of Nobel Peace Prize in 1931 with Jane Addams. S on 3"x5" card with "Columbia University" and date (1932) typed beneath. Fine. Telesphore Fournier (b.1823). As a Canadian, he was Queen’s counsel (1863), a member of Parliament, Minister of Inland Revenue and of Justice and in 1875 made a judge of the Supreme Court of Canada. ALS, 1p, 8”x5”, Ottawa, 1891 Dec. 3. Fine. He sends a copy of the statutes of 1875 (not included here). William Floyd, Jr. The son of William Floyd, Signer of the Declaration of Independence, and lived in Weston, New York. ALS, 3pp, 10"x8", Weston, 1818 Feb. 18. Very good. The red wax seal has been consumed by book worms leaving a hole affecting only 3 words. The integral address leaf bears a Rome Ms postal mark. He writes to a friend in Albany about his Christian beliefs. Kuno Francko (1855-1930). A German-American philologist and from 1896 to 1917 was professor of German history at Harvard University. He was the prime mover in building the Germanic Museum at Harvard. Two letters on letterhead of The Germanic Museum. 1. ALS, 2pp, 8"x5", Cambridge, 1915 April 30. Fine. He writes concerning a gift for the museum. 2. ALS in German script with English translation, 1p, 8"x5", Cambridge. It concerns funds to be given to the museum. Frank Monroe Hawks (b.1897). American aviator and author. He held several early speed records. S on ½”x3” slip of paper with narrow margins. Thomas Augustus Jagger (b.1871). A noted geologist and vulcanologist and professor of geology at M.I.T. He participated on many volcanic expeditions and was a consultant to the U.S. government. ALS, 1p, 8"x5", Honolulu, HI, 1950 Nov. 13. Fine. "What a sloppy thing science was at the beck and call of princes. But if Galen 1300 years before, and Paracelsus a century before were their authors, how about our reverence for Plato and Newton? So much are we hero worshippers, perhaps it behooves us to be heroes . . ." Claude Kitchin (1869-1923). A MOC from North Carolina (1901-23). He chaired the House Ways & Means Committee in the 64th & 65th Congress, was Majority Leader in the 64th & 65th Congress and Minority Leader in the 67th Congress. TLS, 1p, 10"x8", Washington, 1916 Nov. 15. Fine. Slight marginal wear. He states his strong position "in opposing the big military and naval program which will be submitted to Congress. If the people knew the real facts and situation, not one disinterested person in fifty would favor the program . . .” Kirtley Fletcher Mather (b.1888). A noted geologist and professor of geology and geography at Harvard University. TLS, 1p, 10"x8", Cambridge, MA, 1928 Jan. 10. Fine. Minor archival paper repairs on verso. He writes to Prof. Kornhauser in regard to his dismissal at Denison College, blaming it on the fact that he did not belong to a Protestant church. Graham McNamee. Sportscaster of early radio days. S on 2"x3½" card. Fine. James Mills Peirce. Astronomer and mathematician at Harvard University and son of Benjamin Peirce. ADS, 1p, 3”x7 ½”, [Cambridge], 1858 Oct. 223. Fine. Inlaid. Addressed to the president of Harvard, he certifies that a student has completed his work. Plus an ANS “J.M.P.,”1p, 7”x5”, [Cambridge], n.d. Fine. Inlaid. It is a printed notice soliciting support for creating a marble bust of President Jared Sparks. He adds a noted in regard to this subject. 2 pieces. Caleb Strong (1745-1819). A U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and a delegate to the Federal Constitutional Convention. Strong was patriot during the Revolution and was elected to The Continental Congress, but did not attend. As the first Senator from Massachusetts, he served from 1789 to 1796. He was then elected governor of Massachusetts (1800-07; 1812-16). S on slip of paper, mounted to a gilt-edged card with brief biography of him. Very fine. George Wickersham (1858-1936). Attorney General of the United States under President Taft and was also a member of Taft's law firm. TLS, 1p, 10"x8", New York, 1932 Jan. 6. Very good. Minor marginal wear. He responds to a question about criminality in the United States, “I do not know that there is an increase . . . the statistics of crime are so unsatisfactory in this country, that it is almost impossible to prove or disprove any assertion regarding it...Our Commission embodied the results of its studies...which fill six bound volumes..." (Clemens Wenzel Nepomuk Lothar, Prince von Meternich) (1773-1859). An influential and powerful Austrian statesman. He served as Minister to Dresden, Berlin and as Foreign Minister. Partly printed document in French, unsigned, 1p, 4”x7”, n.p., n.d. Very good. There is slight foxing. It is an invitation by “Le Prince et la Princess de Metternich” to Mr. Russel for dinner. 18 pieces. (FMV - $285.00). $85.00
107109. (Autograph Collection – Authors). Includes Charles C. Collingwood, TV news commentator, White House and United Nations reporter. ALS “Charles,” 1p, 10”x7”, New York, 1984 June 11. Fine. Plus original envelope with holograph address. He writes to 81 year of actress Claire Luce, thanking her for birthday greetings, “Terminal YOU! It is hard for me to take it in. How much harder for you. I have had some close experience with others in similar case- my mother, my wife, Ed. Murrow, others. I know a little of how hard it is. I am sure you are supported by your deep faith…I guess it was at the Colony where we had that caviar. It is sad that good restaurants, like the good people are not replaced with equal quality…” Plus original envelope with holograph address. PLUS ALS “Charles,” 1p, 7”x4”, New York, 1978 March 16. Fine. He writes to actress Claire Luce thanking her for her complimentary remarks in her letter. Plus the original envelope upon which LUCE has written, “I love the spontenaity [sic] of acting – the metamorphosis that takes place in the body…” Robert Grant. American jurist and novelist. In 1927 he was appointed by the governor of Massachusetts to the Sacco-Vanzetti Commission. Three ALsS, 5pp, each 7”x5”, Boston, 1900, 1905 & 1927. Fine. All are inlaid. He writes of an illness, consigning books with Goodspeed’s Book Shop and about a manuscript correction. David Masson (1822-1907). A Scottish literary critic and biographer of John Milton, Goldsmith and others. ALS, 2pp, 7”x4½”. London, 1857 Oct. 15. Fine. It concerns his teaching responsibilities. Heywood Broun (1888-1939). American journalist for the Tribune, World and World Telegram. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, New York, 1932 Jan 5. Fine. A response to an autograph request. Ward Morehouse. Newspaper man, journalist, author and drama critic for the New York Tribune and the New York Sun. TLS in pencil, 1p, 10”x8”, New York, n.d., Very good. Slight wear and discoloration. He thanks actress Claire Luce for the “ten best plays list,” seeks London news and adds, “I wish, really, that you’d become my Piccadilly correspondent…” PLUS TLS “Ward” in pencil, 1p, 6”x5”, London, [1945] June 4. Fine Slight wear. He writes to Claire Luce seeking performance dates, seats, hotel rooms, and expresses his hopes of seeing Anthony and Cleopatra. Horace E. Scudder (1838-1902). Author and editor of Atlantic Monthly. 3rd person ANS on 2”x3” card, Cambridge, 1893. Fine Mounting trace on verso. 12 pieces. $75.00
107110. (Autograph Collection – Authors). Includes Andre Henri Constant Van Hasselt (1806-74). Noted Belgian poet who wrote verses in French, new libreti for operas of Mozart and Weber, children’s books, translations and dealt with many other subjects. AMsS with neat penmanship in French. 4pp, 8”x6”, n.p., 1828. Fine. Sight age-toning. It is an eight-stanza poem headed “Adieu,” signed at the conclusion and at the age of 22. Mrs. Humphrey (Mary Augusta Arnold) Ward (1851-1920). An English novelist. Postcard PS, London, 1903 Sept. 3 Fine. Sir John St. Loe Strachey (1860-1927). An English journalist, publisher and editor of the London Spectator. 1. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, London, 1921 Dec. 23. Fine. Marginal defects A response to an autograph request. 2. TLS in pencil, 1p, 10”x8”, Guildford, 1922 May 29. Fine. Mounting traces on verso. Several pencil corrections It concerns his family genealogy. Plus newspaper and magazine photos of him, original envelopes and news stories. 9 pieces. Robert E. Sherwood. Author of many plays and books, editor and Secretary of the Navy (1945). Inscription and sentiment signed, 1p, 7”x5”, 1924 April. Fine. Faint stains; mounted. Hermann Sudermann (1857-11928). German dramatist and novelist. Postcard PS, Berlin, 1904. Fine. Minor defects including circular dent from a cds on verso. Benjamin Penhallow Shillaber (1814-90). American humorist and creator of “Mrs. Parkington,” a likeable character in his novels. S on 2½”x4½” sheet of paper, tipped to album leaf, Chelsea, 1881 Dec. 7. Very fine. Richard Grant White (1821-85). An American Shakespearean scholar, author and journalist. He was the father of Sanford White. ANS “RGW” on 2½”x4” card, n.d., n.p. Fine He writes the definition of the word “agnostic.” 15 pieces. $75.00
107111. (Autograph Collection – Entertainment). Includes Sam H. Harris. New York theatrical producer and co-producer for many years with George M. Cohan. . TLS “Sam”, 1p, 7”x8”, New York, 1938 June 20. Fine. He writes to actress Claire Luce in London about her correspondence and book that she is writing, “Regarding the tour next season…inasmuch as we are going to play all the important cities…your being with this show would add considerably to your prestige…I won’t be starting on a new play for about a month. My first will be the new Kaufman-Hart play which should be a very interesting thing to see through production…” Plus a damaged envelope with a number of pencil scribbles by Luce. Also TLS “Sam”, 1p, 7”x8”, New York, 1938 Oct. 20. Fine. Plus original envelope. After receiving her letter, he writes to Claire Luce, “If Sidney Kingsley calls or sends me his play I’ll read it immediately an advise you and he just what I think of it. Should I run across a play with a great part, suitable for you, I’ll send it right on. Hope to see you soon. Love…”4 pieces. Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. Screen actor. S on 2”x3” slip of paper with name typed beneath. Fine. Mounting traces on verso. Slight age-toning. G. M. Stohwasser. Actress. ALS in English, 1p, 9”x7”, [London], n.d. [stampless era]. Fine. The address leaf has a Ms “free” and postal markings. She writes to S. Penley responding to an offer of an engagement. M. Pithington. Probably a dramatist. There is a note in pencil on the letter “Theater.” ALS in English on laid paper, 9”x7”, n.p., n.d. [early 1800s or late 1700s].Very good. Tipped to a larger sheet. Marginal defects not affecting text. Writing to a woman whom he refers to as “your Grace,” he seeks permission to “usher the following work under your Auspices,” which is not identified. Henri Casadusus, Director of the Théatre Royal de Liége. TLS in French with holograph P.S., 1p, 9”x8”, Liége, 1922 March 16. PLUS ALS in French, 1½pp, Liége, n.d. [192-]. Both very good, with some wear. Each with an English translation. One is a social letter and the other with good theater content. From the Goodspeed Bookstore collection. Morris Gest. New York theatrical and early screen producer in Hollywood. He was the first impresario to bring the original Russian ballet to America. ALS, 1p, 10”x7”, New York,,[1942 April]. Fine. He writs to actress Claire Luce, ”The little poem I gave you is from the most popular book in the world bible. With love…” Claire Luce adds a note at the bottom of his letter, “(Greater is he that rules himself than he that taketh cities).” Mark Lemon (1809-70). An English playwright and humorist and founder of Punch with Henry Mayhew. ALS, 1p, 7”x4 ½”, Punch Office 1845. Fine. Blank second leaf mounted. Minor marginal stain. He makes an appointment. (Claire Luce) Louis Deux Fois. Friend of actress Claire Luce. ANS in pencil on picture postcard, Amsterdam, 1937 Sept. Fine. He writes to Luce, “Over the Channel - Luce darling, Bless you for all your sweetness…” The photograph is of a Douglas DC-3 in flight. Plus an ANS in pencil on a postcard, Spain, date illegible. Fine. The address side bears a likeness of dictator Francisco Franco with a military censor stamp. He writes to Luce, “I do hope you will let Miss Buck [Randolph Churchill’s secretary] know if you want to go to Westminster Gardens. I told her you might be coming…” 15 pieces. $95.00
107121. (Autograph Collection – Miscellany). Includes Alfred Austin (1835-1913). English poet and editor of National Review, who succeeded Tennyson in 1896 as poet laureate. Postcard PS, Ashford, Kent, 1903 Oct. 1. Fine. He has signed on the address side with a sentiment. Samuel J. Ervin, Jr. United States Senator from North Carolina and jurist. He received national attention when, as chairman of the Senate Select Committee to Investigate Presidential Campaign Practice, he held hearings on the Watergate affair. This ultimately led to the downfall of President Nixon. Partly printed ADS, 1p, 3”x6”, Morgantown, NC, 1954 April 3. Fine. A bank check drawn on the First National Bank (Morgantown). Thomas Ewbank (1792-1870). American inventor and writer. He held several patents including one for the tinning of lead. He was appointed Commissioner of the U. S. Patent Office by President Zachary Taylor. ALS, 1p, 9”x7½”, New York, 1858 Sept. 18. Fine. He is unable to send autographs of President Taylor but sends ones of William King, Robert W. Johnson, Reverdy Johnson and General Rusk (not included here). Mexican War Claim: Dan Young. Veteran of the Mexican War. ALS, 1p, 10”x8”, Ironton, IL, 1851 Aug. 27. Fine. Slight age-toning. The integral address leaf bears a Ms“Ironton Aug. 29” and Ms “Paid 3.” He writes, “have an opportunity of buying the claim of a Mexican Soldier. I wish you to write to me, immediately, and inform me whether there is any opportunity of making a good entry of a Quarter Section in your vicinity [Bourbon County, IL].” Max Nordau (1849-1923). A German physician, author and ardent Zionist. He wrote novels as well as critical social works. Bold S on 2”x4” card, Dr. M. Nordau / Paris, June 26th 1905.” Fine. Richard Ward (1689-1763). Colonial governor of Rhode Island (1740-43) and Recorder (1714-30). Closing portion of an ADS removed from a MsDS by Gov. Joseph Jencks of R.I. in 1730. 1½”x3½”, n.p., [1730]. “Sealed with the Seal of Sd Colony by order of his Honbl the Govr R. Ward Secy.” Charles O’Connor, an unidentified attorney, not to be confused with Charles O’Conor. ALS, 1p, 10”x8”, n.p., n.d. Fine. W. Seward Webb, a politician and president of Wagner Palace Car Company. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, 1896 Aug. 16. New York. Fine. Darwin C. Pavey, an archivist. ANS “D.C.P.”, 1p, 5”x4”, n.p., n.d. Mounted to is a newspaper clipping re W. Seward Webb. John Williams, a MOC. ALS, 1p, 8”x5”, Washington, D.C., 1856 Jan. 15. Fine. Concerns the Congressional Directory. Plus two dealer invoices for Abraham Lincoln autographs. One for a legal ADS for $75.00, dated 1951. The other is for a Lincoln ANS for $9.50 in 1942. 15 pieces. $110.00
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Papers of Captain Edmund Louis Gray Zalinski
Edmund Louis Gray Zalinski, born in Kurnick, Prussian Poland in 1849, immigrated to the United States in 1853 with his parents. After settling in Syracuse, New York, attending high school there, he enlisted in the army at the age of fifteen to serve in the Civil War. Initially he served as an aide-de-camp on the staff of General Nelson Miles from 1864 to 1865. In 1865 he was commissioned 2nd Lt. in the 2nd New York heavy artillery as a reward for gallant and meritorious service at the battle of Hatcher’s Run, Virginia. He remained on the Miles staff until the surrender of General Lee, participating in all engagements until that date. Zalinski was mustered out of the volunteer service in 1865, but promptly re-enlisted in the regular army, serving many years, attaining the rank of captain. From 1872 to 1876 he was on duty at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as Professor of Military Science. In May 1880 he was graduated at the Artillery School, Fort Monroe, Virginia and in July of the same year at the School of Submarine Mining at Willet’s Point, New York. Captain Zalinski’s name is widely known “in connection with the development of the pneumatic dynamite torpedo-gun. He invented the electrical fuse and other devices for the practical application of the weapon, and also devised a method for the exact sight-allowance to be made for deviation due to wind in the use of rifled artillery and small-arms.” Zalinski also invented an intrenching-tool, a ramrod-bayonet, and a telescopic sight for artillery. As an accomplished engineer he carried out an extensive correspondence with other engineers, archeologists, anthropologists, physicists, chemists, writers, editors, educators and many others. A portion of his correspondence is presented here.
105168. (Philosophy). Robert Henry Thurston (1839-1903). Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of noted mechanical engineer, Robert Lawton Thurston. Educated at Brown University, he entered the United States Navy during the Civil War. He served on various vessels as 3rd assistant engineer and was present at the battle of Port Royal and the siege of Charleston. In 1865 he was appointed assistant professor of natural and experimental philosophy at the United States Naval Academy. In 1872 he resigned from the Navy as 1st assistant engineer. From 1871 to 1885 he chaired the department of mechanical engineering at Stevens Institute in Hoboken, New Jersey. In 1885 he was appointed director of Sibley College of Cornell University. With his expertise in engineering, Thurston served on several United States commissions. He was a leader in the academic field of mechanical engineering, had many inventions to his credit and authored over 250 papers. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, Ithaca, NY, 1900 April 2. Fine. In regard to a visit and a paper he delivered. George Holmes Howison. Howison was born in Montgomery County, Maryland in 1834. He was a philosophical writer and educator and professor at the University of California from 1884 to 1909 when he assumed emeritus status. ALS, 1½”pp (separate leaves), 8½”x5½”, Berkeley, CA 1896 Oct. 30. Fine. He writes to Major Zalinski, inviting him to visit his home. 2 pieces. $55.00
105169. (Entomology & Zoology). William Beutenmüller. Born in Hoboken, New Jersey in 1864, he studied entomology and from 1889 to 1909 was curator of the Department of Entomology at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. MsLS addressed to Mrs. Poznanski (?), 1p, 10”x8”, A.M.N.H., New York, 1907 April 29. Fine. He is unable to help in finding a position at the museum for a friend of hers. Edward Sylvester Morse (1838-1925). Morse was an American zoologist, art lecturer, writer and from 1880 director of the Peabody Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. He was an authority on brachiopods. From 1871 to 1874 he was professor of zoology at Bowdoin College and from 1877 to 1880 taught at the Imperial University in Tokyo. On his return from Japan he was appointed curator of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts where he contributed his valuable collection of Japanese potteries. ALS to Capt. Zalinski, 1p, 8”x5”, Salem, [MA], 1899 Jan.(?) 26. Fine. “Thank you very much for the book plates…prompts me to send a few papers of mine more or less bearing on the subject…” 2 pieces. $45.00
105171. (Chemistry & Metallurgy). Thomas Messinger Drown. Drown was born in Philadelphia in 1843, and attended the University of Pennsylvania where he attained his medical degree in 1862. He later studied at Freiburg, Saxony and at the mining school at Heidelberg. His academic career started with an instructorship at Harvard in metallurgy. From 1874 he held the chair of analytical chemistry at Lafayette College for a number of years. After a distinguished career, he was appointed president of Lehigh University. 1. ALS, 1½pp, Lehigh University, South Bethlehem. PA, 1999 Oct. 6. Fine. He thanks Capt. Zalinski, for “your kind and cheerful note. I recognize in the ‘record’ your great popularity among your fellow centurions who are only too glad to do you a service. I couldn’t enter the Club under a more fortunate introduction…” 2. ALS, 2pp, Lehigh University, South Bethlehem. PA, 1903 June 2. Fine. He writes to Capt. Zalinski in regard to Professor Trowbridge, “His reputation is so high, I should think his name alone would carry him through…Your son will bring back with him, in addition to a mind well stacked with knowledge, a happy collection of memories of his travels. What a glorious time youth is…” 3. TLS, 12p, 10”x8”, South Bethlehem, PA, 1903 June 8. Fine. It concerns statements made by Zalinski in regard to ”the efficiency of reflectors.” Charles Ernest Pellew, professor of chemistry at Columbia. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, New York, 1904 Feb. 13. Fine. Thanks for a book. 4 pieces. $90.00
105172. (Education & Languages). W. S. Chaplin. A graduate of the United State Military Academy in 1870, Chaplin was Chancellor of the Washington University, St. Louis. ALS, 2pp, 7”x4½”, St. Louis. MO, 1902 Feb. 24. Fine. He writes to. Capt. Zalinski, indicating that he was expected to visit St. Louis and will tell him the news when he arrives. PLUS TLS, 1p, 8”x5”, St. Louis, MO, 1903 April 14. Fine. “I learn from the papers that you have had a conflagration in your house…I must say that I did not have the least anxiety about your being burned. Your marvelous luck will keep you from any such unusual ending…” Frederick Hirsh. Member of the Department of Chinese at Columbia, Three TLsS, Columbia University, NY, 1903, Sept. 30. Oct. 9 & 12. Fine. Concern a meeting him at the “Club,” a visit to Hirsh’s home to look at his Chinese paintings and one letter seeking his recommendation for membership in The Century Club, proposed as a member by President Nicholas Murray Butler of Columbia University. 5 pieces. $60.00
105173. (Engineering). R. C. Carpenter. Professor of Experimental Engineering, Sibley College, TLS, 1p, 10”x8’, Ithaca, NY, 1900 June 14. Fine. A letter of recommendation on behalf of Monmouth Ingersoll. William Suddards Franklin (1863-1930). Franklin was a physicist and engineer schooled at the University of Kansas and Cornell University. He held professorships at the University of Kansas, Iowa State College, Lehigh University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Rollins College. ALS, 1p, 10”x8”, Lehigh University, S. Bethlehem, PA, 1903 Feb. 1903. Fine. He writes to Capt. Zalinski recommending C. O. Mailloux for the presidency of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers, citing his fine qualifications. PLUS ALS, 1p, 10”x8”, Lehigh University, S. Bethlehem, PA, 1903 July 30. Fine. He writes to Capt. Zalinski giving recommendations on a lamp order. George Fillmore Swain. Born in 1857, George Swain was a civil engineer, educated at M.I.T. In 1909 he was appointed professor of civil engineering at M.I.T; he also taught at the Harvard Engineering School. His expertise covered many areas including the United States Census, appraisal and valuation of railroads, &c. ALS to Capt. Zalinski, 1p, 8”x5½”, Dept. of Civil Engineering, M.I.T. letterhead, Waterville, N.H., 1900 June 18. Fine. Swain gives Zalinski, who was on a trip to Germany, several suggestions for seeking contacts of people in Leipzig. 4 pieces. $60.00
105174. (Architecture). Russell Sturgis. American architect, Professor of Architecture and Design at C.C.N.Y., and a prolific author. TLS, 1p, 7”x6”, New York, 1903 Feb. 20. Fine. He writes to Zalinski, “Is it not now a good time to try to bring about Richardson’s election to the Century?” $20.00
105175. (Physics) Charles Robert Cross. Born in Troy, New York, Cross attended M.I.T., graduating in 1870, following which he served his career as a physicist with the physical department of M.I.T., first as a student and later as an instructor, assistant professor and finally as professor and chairman of the Physics Department (1875-1887). In addition to the latter position, he was director of the Rogers Laboratory and headed the department of electrical engineering, the first such department established in America. His athleticism is testified to by his membership of and president of the Appalachian Mountain Club. He published extensively in his field. ALS, 1p, 8”x5”, M.I.T., Rogers Laboratory, Boston, 1898 May 27. Fine. He writes to Capt. Zalinski, “I thank you for your letter & copies of the Circular of the Holophone Co, one of which I had placed in our physical library. I do not know as yet what it is purposed to do…but I suppose that incandescent electricity will be used. I will mention the matter to those in charge…” PLUS ALS, 1½ pp, 8”x5”, M.I.T., Rogers Laboratory, Boston, 1900 Feb. 23. Fine. A letter of reference to Capt. Zalinski recommending one of his students for a position. 2 pieces. $50.00
John S. Billings, Civil War surgeon and founder of New York Public Library
105176. (Librarian). John Shaw Billings (1838-1913). Born in Switzerland County, Indiana, he had his education at Miami University in Ohio and at the Ohio Medical College. During the Civil War he was a surgeon in the Union Army and was appointed Medical Inspector of the Army of the Potomac. After the war he served as librarian of the Surgeon General’s Library in Washington, adding greatly to its collection. In 1879 he initiated the creation of the Index Medicus, a monthly guide to medical literature. As director of the combined Astor, Lenox and Tilden foundations in New York, he consolidated and recatalogued their collections, and planned and orchestrated the building of a new library that was to become the New York Public Library. In a true sense, Billings the primary mover and “creator” of the New York Public Library. From 1893 to 1896 he was professor of hygiene at the University of Pennsylvania. TLS, 1p, 8”x5”, New York, 1902 Jan. 13. Fine He writes to Capt. Zalinski, citing references,“The best summary of Lavater’s views on Physiognomy is contained in his work ‘Science of Physiognomy,’ translated buy Holcroft…” He then gives advice on how to obtain the volume. $125.00
105177. (Librarian). John Shaw Billings (1838-1913). TLS, 1p, 8”x5”, New York, 1903 June 6. Fine. A brief letter, “I have your note of the 6th and have written the note to Admissions Committee in behalf of Prof. Trowbridge with very great pleasure…” $95.00
105178. (Business) Richard T. Haines Halsey. Halsey was born in 1865 and resided in New York. He was a broker and partner in the firm of Tefft, Halsey & Company. He was also an art critic, an antiquarian, and author of a book on American Pottery. Two ALsS, one on mourning stationery, 1p each, 8”x5” each, University Club, [New York], n.d. Social letters. J. Ogden Armour. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, Chicago, IL, 1899 Dec. 25. Very good. Some marginal defects. Re letter of introduction. Edwin Gould, president of Bowling Green Trust Company, New York, TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, New York, 1903 Feb. 18. Fine. A solicitation for an account to Capt. Zalinski. PLUS S + sentiment on slip of paper. L. Wertheimber, president of L. Wertheimber & Co., New York, Importers of Japanese and Chinese Products. Responds to a request for merchandise. TLS, 1p, 10”x8”, New York, 1903 Jan. 245. Fine. Oren Root, Jr. general manager of Interurban Street Railway Company, New York, 1904 Jan. 4. Fine. Thanks to Zalinski for praising the conductors on the railway. 7 pieces. $25.00
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