Lot 627
Dickens, Charles (1812-70) English novelist who chronicled England during the Industrial Revolution. His most famous books included Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, A Tale of Two Cities, Nicholas Nickelby, and Great Expectations. Envelope addressed and signed "Charles Dickens," 2½ x 5 in., stamped in red "PAID/7 JUL 7/1848." Addressed by Dickens to "Charles M. Evans Esquire / Upper Temple Street / Birmingham." Postmarked "Birmingham / JUL 8 / 1848" on verso. Slight tear at wax seal on verso. Fine condition.
In 1848, Charles Dickens was touring with the "Amateurs," a group of friends and family members, including his brother Augustus, performing plays in order to raise money to endow the office of Curatorship of the Shakespeare House. On May 18th, Dickens had written to Charles M. Evans, Secretary of the Birmingham Polytechnic, and Secretary of the Birmingham Theatricals Committee, asking if he thought he could fill the Theatre Royal in June for performances by the Amateurs of plays including "The Merry Wives of Windsor." Birmingham’s "Aris’s Gazette" reported on July 3rd that the June 27, 1848 performances of the Amateurs were "fully attended." No doubt the contents of the letter Dickens wrote to Evans on July 7, 1848 from Devonshire Terrace concerned the Amateurs.
Estimated Value $600 - 800.
|
| |
| Unsold |
