Sale 171
Autographs & Manuscripts
Printed Americana:
Currier & Ives Lithographs
Posters of the World Wars
Thursday, October 1, 1998
Questions about bidding? Click here.
103. [Hollywood Scripts]. Collection of 59 printed movie and television scripts, each signed by a prominent figure from the production, including: Shirley MacLaine - The Apartment, Janet Leigh - Psycho, Linda Blair - The Exorcist, Angela Lansbury - Murder She Wrote, James Whitmore - Oklahoma, Jack Lemmon - The Apartment, Beverly Garland - My Three Sons, Peter Mayhew - Star Wars, Linda Harrison - Planet of the Apes, etc., etc. Each script is in fine condition and signed on front cover, wrappers. (600/900)
104. Hoover, Herbert. 1874-1964. 31st President of the U.S. His book Fishing For Fun - And To Wash Your Soul. New York: Random House, 1963. Copy number 140 from an edition limited to 250 specially bound copies, signed in full by Hoover on the limitation page. Illustrated by Bill Hofmann. Dark blue cloth, some sunning to spine, else very good. Previous owner's inscription on front flyleaf. (250/400)
EXCELLENT COPY
IN RARE ORIGINAL BOX
105. Hoover, Herbert. His book The Challenge to Liberty. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1934. First edition. Signed on front free endpaper: The kind regards of Herbert Hoover. In tissue and glassine jacket and contained in rare original box. Fine. (300/500)
106. Hoover, Herbert. 1874-1964. 31st President of the United States. His book American Individualism. Garden City: Doubleday, Page, 1922. First Edition. Inscribed and signed by Hoover on front free endpaper. Fading to spine with some spotting to covers, else very good.
(200/300)
107. Hoover, Herbert. Exquisite lobby card bearing an oval engraved view of the White House, 4 x 6.5, signed in full by Hoover in lower blank margin. Fine. (200/300)
108. Hoover, Herbert. 1874-1964. His book The Challenge to Liberty. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1934. First edition. Inscribed and signed on front free endpaper. Fine, with dustjacket. (200/300)
109. Hoover, J. Edgar. Director of the F.B.I. Typed Letter Signed in full on imprinted Department of Justice Bureau of Investigation stationery, one page, quarto, Washington, 8 August 1933. To Major O.M. Baldinger thanking him for congratulations on being appointed as Director of Investigations at the justice Department. Fine condition. With two black and white portrait photographs of Baldinger in uniform. (100/150)
110. Housman, Laurence. 1865-1959. English writer and illustrator. His book The House of Joy. London: Kegan Paul Trench Trubner & Co., 1895. Inscribed: With affectionate regards from the author. Dec. 1895 on half title page. Some wear, foxing and soiling. (80/120)
111. Howells, W.D. 1837-1920. American man of letters. His book The Rise of Silas Lapham. Boston: Ticknor and Company, 1885. With Autograph Letter Signed by Howells tipped inside front cover, two pages, octavo, New York, 18 November 1888. Letter of introduction for a gentleman who will one day be Earl of Stamford... Book worn, letter very good. (100/150)
A RARE COLLECTION OF LOVE LETTERS FROM HOWARD HUGHES TO ACTRESS BILLIE DOVE
112. Hughes, Howard. 1905-1976. American aviator, inventor and tycoon. This rare collection of autograph letters, notes and other miscellaneous materials sent by the legendary businessman, Howard Hughes, was secreted away by the American Beauty silent screen star Billie Dove for some six decades. This collection represents the writings of a young and very powerful man smitten by his love for a young movie star, a legend in her own right. Considered by many to be his one true love, Billie Dove was the proverbial one that got away. Included in the collection are: Ten Autograph Letters, one to five pages each, four of which are signed Howard, the remaining, true to his later obsessive desire for anonymity, are signed with some pet name initials; Eleven Autograph Notes, six signed with pet name initials; One Typed Letter signed in type; One unusual Autograph Letter, two pages, with all but one line, Do you love me? crossed out; One original typed love poem (certainly unpublished); eleven envelopes, all but two addressed in his hand; five telegrams; one printed Christmas card; several original photographs, 4 x 5 to 8 x 10; several pages of notes written in Billie Dove's hand regrading her first meeting with Howard Hughes, etc. Condition very good to fine.
Early in 1929 Howard Hughes met Billie Dove on the Starlight dance floor of the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. Hollywood gushed about love at first sight, and over the next few years they were one of the most talked about couples in America. Dubbed the American Beauty from the title of one of her films, Billie Dove was at her peak in the late 20s ranked with Colleen Moore and Clara Bow as among the most popular actresses in the cinema. Indeed, for at time, she surpassed Mary Pickford, Gloria Swanson and Greta Garbo at the box office. Hughes with the wealth of his inheritance and the profits from the business his father had built, was producing movies independently from the major studios by the late 20s. He put Dove in two of his films: Cock of the Air and The Age for Love. Dove's first marriage in 1923, to film director Irvin Willat, was coming to a close when they first met, as was Hughes' marriage, and he arranged for the two pending divorces to go smoothly by paying off the two parties. He offered to pay Willat $325,000 for an uncontested divorce with Dove. His wife Ella accepted a $1.2 million settlement for theirs. Though they were now free to marry one another, the marriage never took place, for reasons that remain not altogether known. It seems certain that Hughes' philandering and his fits of jealousy doomed the relationship.
It does seem clear, by her having kept these letters so securely hidden for these many years, that Billie Dove kept the memory of Howard Hughes close to her heart. As for Hughes, it was said by more than one of his later paramours that, much to their consternation, he spoke regularly of Billie Dove, his first and perhaps only soulmate, throughout the many years following their relationship.
Autograph letters of Hughes are exceedingly rare, and this group, so closely guarded by Billie Dove, is a unique treasure. (60,000/80,000)
113. Hughes, Langston. 1902-1967. American negro writer. Typed Letter Signed in full on his imprinted personal stationery, one page, quarto, New York, 2 July 1963. To Mr. H.K. Thompson, Jr. Hughes sends a statement, contained in the text of the letter, promoting Rockwell Kent's Greenland Journal: a very beautiful book indeed... Fine. With portrait. (400/500)
LARGE COLLECTION OF PORTRAITS
114. [Iconography]. Large group of portraits of 18th and 19th century personalities. Consists of primarily engraved portraits of important names from all fields of interest, Civil War, literature, presidents, science, music, etc. Approximately 2000 items, octavo to quarto in size. Condition very good to fine. Should be seen. (2000/2500)
115. Ingres, Jean Auguste D. 1780-1867. French painter. Recognized as a leader among the classicists, he is best known as an historical painter. Autograph Letter Signed J. Ingres, one page, octavo, 27 April 1853. To an unnamed gentleman. Untranslated. Lightly browned with age., else fine. (250/400)
IMPORTANT JACKSON
APPOINTMENT OF A
CALIFORNIA PIONEER
116. Jackson, Andrew. 1767-1845. Seventh President of the United States. Ornate partly-printed Document Signed as President, on vellum, one page, large folio, Washington, 6 November 1830. Appointment of Walter Colton as Chaplain in the United States Navy. Large engraved vignette of American eagle at top and large vignette of flags and implements of war below, with embossed paper wafer seal affixed with was in bottom center. Jackson's signature is a bit light. Minor wear, else fine. A very scarce appointment of a prominent figure from the West.
After serving in several assignments following his appointment by Jackson, Walter Colton was ordered to California in 1845 and was appointed by Commodore Robert F. Stockton as Alcalde of Monterey, being confirmed by a vote of the citizens. While there he established the first newspaper in California, The Californian, he also built the first school house. He is credited with making the first public announcement to the East of the discovery of gold in the Sacramento Valley in his letter to the Philadelphia North American and United States Gazette. See illustration on back cover. (4000/5000)
117. Johnson, Lyndon B. 1908-1973. 36th President of the U.S. His book The Vantage Point - Perspectives of the Presidency - 1963-1969. New York: Rinehart and Winston, 1971. First Edition. Johnson has signed in full on his gilt-stamped presidential bookplate which has been neatly affixed on the half title page. Fine, with dustjacket. (250/350)
118. Johnson, Lyndon B. His book No Retreat From Tomorrow - President Lyndon B. Johnson's 1967 Messages to the 90th Congress. No publisher listed. 248 pages, quarto, with dustjacket. Signed in full by Johnson on front free endpaper. Very good. (250/400)
119. Kennedy, John F. 1917-1963. 35th President of the U.S. Assassinated. His book Profiles in Courage. New York: Harper and Brothers, 1956. Inscribed and signed To Dr. Francis Pottege - With every good wish - John Kennedy on front free endpaper. Fine condition, with dustjacket, which is a bit rubbed. (1500/2500)
120. Lincoln, Abraham. 1809-1865. Sixteenth President of the United States. Assassinated. Partly-printed Document Signed in full as President, one page, oblong folio, Washington, 19 August 1862. Appointment of David Saunders of Wilmington as a Collector of Taxes for the sixth collection district of Ohio. This document bears an excellent dark signature of Lincoln. Countersigned by Salmon P. Chase as Secretary of the Treasury. Light age toning, light stain in blank left margin, with slight show-through of file notation on verso. Expert repair of fold breaks.
On the same date that Lincoln signed this document, August 19, 1862, he made early morning visits to the camps of two regiments of Pennsylvania volunteers. He continued through the day with a full schedule of meetings, including: a Cabinet meeting in which he was uneasy about General Pope and troop distribution in the Army of Virginia, Capt, Dahlgren comes to the White House to discuss new gunpowder and information on Pope and McClellan, and in the evening Lincoln consults with A.W. Thompson on colonization of Negroes. (5000/6000)
121. [Lincoln, Abraham]. Newspaper The New York Herald, No. 10,456, Saturday, 15 April 1865. Front page news of the assassination of Lincoln, the condition of Secretary Seward, etc. Browned with age, some folds. (150/250)
122. Lincoln, Benjamin. 1733-1810. American Revolutionary War General. Accepted the sword of surrender from Cornwallis. Partly-printed Document Signed as Collector, one page, oblong octavo, Port of Marblehead, 1 June 1804.
Certification that Henry Gallison has imported one case of wine from Bordeau on board the schooner Hiram, John Hooper, Master. Fine condition. (150/250)
123. London, Jack. 1876-1916. American novelist. Partly-printed bank check, completed and signed in full by London, one page, oblong octavo, San Francisco, 2 September 1916. Payable to Walter F. Dean for one hundred dollars. Cancellation perforations at center, else fine. (300/500)
124. Madison, James. 1751-1836. Fourth President of the U.S. Father of the United States Constitution. Partly-printed Document Signed in full as President, one page, oblong folio, Washington, 31 August 1813. Land grant to William Nichol. Several folds and creases, wear and light age browning. Seal lacking. Madison's signature light but entirely readable. (500/700)
125. [Maine - Battleship]. Book Final Report on Removing the Wreck of Battleship Maine From Harbor of Habana, Cuba. Washington: 1914. Final report from the House of Representatives Committee on Rivers and harbors on removing the wreck of the Maine from Havana, Cuba with a letter from the Secretary of War in the text. Numerous fold-out maps and photographs. Bound in three-quarter red morocco, gilt-stamped spine. Very good. (150/250)
EXCELLENT DOCUMENT
ASSOCIATING TWO SIGNERS
OF THE CONSTITUTION
126. Mifflin, Thomas. 1744-1800. Signer of the U.S. Constitution. Aide-de-camp to George Washington in 1775. Highly ornate partly-printed Document Signed in full as Governor of Pennsylvania on vellum, one page large oblong folio, 22 August 1796. Grant of a tract of land called Fellowship situated on the waters of Loyalsock in Northumberland County to Robert Morris. With large star shaped paper wafer seal affixed in left margin. Small hole in lower area of text, else attractive and fine. Morris performed an important service to American independence by arranging for financing the purchases of supplies for Washington's armies. He also signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. An excellent association item. (400/600)
127. [Missouri Iron and Steel Corporation]. Stock certificate for 50 shares, ornately printed, one page, oblong quarto, St. Louis, 27 December 1919. Signed by President W.R. Haight and Treasurer F.J. Stuart. With typed letter of transmittal signed by General Sales Manager F.E. Jacobs, together with related documents and an envelope. Very good. (100/150)
128. Monroe, James. 1758-1831. Fifth President of the U.S. Ornate partly-printed Document Signed in full as President, one page, oblong folio, Washington, 23 April 1818. Grant of 160 acres of land to Reuben Russell of Vail's Company of the Seventh Regiment. Handsome pictorial engraved vignette in upper left, with embossed paper wafer seal affixed in lower left. Also a paper tag which was to be be redeemed for a map of the property still attached with wax under seal (scarce). Some folds and light age toning. Dark signature of Monroe. (400/600)
129. Muir, John. 1838-1914. American naturalist. Campaigned for the establishment of Yosemite National Park. Scarce Typewritten Document Signed in full, three separate pages, folio, Martinez, California, January 1892. Petition to the Superior Court of Contra Costa County concerning the estate of Muir's brother-in-law, John Strentzel. Signed by Muir as Administrator of the estate. File holes in top blank margin, else fine. (1000/1500)
BONAPARTE CLOSES A CONVENT
AND CONFISCATES THE PROPERTY FOR THE ARMY OF ITALY
130. Napoleon I. 1769-1821, Emperor of the French. Magnificent Manuscript Document Signed Bonaparte, as General in Chief of the Army of Italy, two pages, folio, 8 March 1797. The General in Chief issues five articles ordering the Convent of San Benedetto to be suppressed and the monks there to return to their provinces. He also orders that half of the goods belonging to the convents present in Mantua be given to civilians who had lost their homes in consequence of the defense of the city. The other half to be divided: Two thirds to the coffers of the army and the other third to the inhabitants of San Benedetto to compensate them for the alms which the convent would have given them. The third article orders any good belonging to the convent in the Cisalpine Republic or in Lombardy are to be confiscated for the benefit of the army. The convent of San Benedetto is to be turned into a military hospital under the disposition of the Chief Director. This document bears an exquisite large engraved vignette at the top of page one of the French Liberty figure and Bonaparte's name as General in Chief of the Army of Italy. Bonaparte's signature, on page two, is strong and dark. Fine condition. (3500/4500)
131. Napoleon I. Extremely rare engraved calling card, circa 1792-95. One crease in upper right corner, minor wear. Sold in 1976 by Kenneth Rendell. A very difficult calling card to find. (1500/1800)
132. [Napoleon I - Egyptian Campaign]. Contemporary extract of a letter, Alexandria, 26 May 1801, from Captain Roe of the British forces that drove Napoleon's forces out. In part: I send you this mutilated piece of antiquity which the soldiers digging trenches near the old ruins, there found buried. I cannot...ascertain its date, but it is supposed to have lain here these 300 years... Writer believe that he was on the site of Caesar's camp. With excellent pen and ink drawing of the monument referred to in the text. (Some foxing, else very good. (150/250)
133. Nast, Thomas. 1840-1902. American political cartoonist and illustrator. Originator of the donkey and elephant as symbols for the Democratic and Republican parties. Manuscript Letter Signed Th. Nast on imprinted Morristown, N.J. stationery, one page, octavo, 2 November 1886. To Mr. C.T. Fairchild: I cannot tell whether I shall give any lectures or not, this season... Fine. (150/250)
134. [Native Americans - Colonial Massachusetts]. Manuscript Document, one page, quarto, Plymouth, 20 October 1746. Warrant for the arrest of Joseph Latham for false and slanderous assertions against Samll. James,, and Indian Man of Bridgewater. Latham said that...he was a cursed Dam'd Lyar with other hard and unbecoming speaches against the complainant all which assertions were false Sland. and very injurious and against the Peace... Few stains and light age browning. A scarce and unusual colonial document. (150/250)
ON BOARD THE VICTORY
135. Nelson, Horatio. 1758-1805. British Admiral. Hero of Trafalgar. Possibly the greatest naval commander in history. Superb Manuscript Document Signed Nelson & Bronte, two pages, folio, Given on Board the Victory off Toulon, 4 August 1803. Nelson orders Captain John Chambers of His Majesty's ship Renown to proceed to to the bay of Roses: in order to complete your wood and water with all possible dispatch; during your stay there you are to order your Purser to purchase a sufficient quantity of fresh beef for the company of the said ship and to procure as many live Bullocks for the fleet as you can conveniently stow... Pristine condition, with a very dark signature of Nelson. (3500/4500)
136. Nesselrode, Count Karl Robert. 1780-1862. Russian statesman; on staff of Alexander I in negotiations following the fall of Napoleon. Member of the Congress of Vienna. Cancellor in 1844; concluded the Treaty of Paris after the Crimean War. Lengthy Manuscript Letter Signed in French, eleven pages, folio, Tchernervitz, 28 September 1823. To Lord Strangford. Fascinating document in which Nesselrode gives a detailed response to Strangford's recent communication and outlines the Russian position concerning ports and trade regulations on and near the Bosphore and Constantinople. Very good, with engraved portrait. (300/500)
137. [New Mexico]. Autograph Letter by C.O. Phillips, four pages, octavo, written on pictorial stationery of the Hotel Hagerman, Eddy, New Mexico, 27 October 1891. He writes to his family describing his excursion to the West: I am in the land of Greasers, jack rabbits and prairie dogs where nothing grows but sage brush, owls and rattlesnakes. It is a beautiful place however...not an hour passes without a new scene and a new experience...Today some more boys of our party and I took a big ride on ponies. I had a winchester rifle and shot at lots of rabbits... Very good. (80/120)
138. Nixon, Richard. 1913-1994. 37th President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed with initials RN as President on imprinted White House stationery, one page, quarto, Washington, 21 January 1971. To United States Senator Norris Cotton: Your election as Secretary of the Republican Conference of the Senate reflects the confidence and respect of your colleagues, in which I heartily join... Fine. (350/500)
NIXON LIMITED EDITION MEMOIRS
139. Nixon, Richard. His book The Memoirs of Richard Nixon. New York: Grossett & Dunlap, 1978. Copy number 1147 from an edition limited to 2500 copies signed in full by Nixon on limitation page. Dark blue leather with gilt-stamped spine and cover. Fine. (350/500)
140. Nixon, Richard. His book Six Crises. New York: Doubleday, 1962. First edition. Inscribed and signed in full by Nixon on the front flyleaf. Exquisitely rebound in three quarter black morocco and marbled paper with gilt-stamped spine and cover. Fine. (250/400)
RARE RICHARD M. NIXON
SIGNATURE
141. Nixon, Richard. His book Six Crises. New York: Doubleday, 1962. First edition. Signed with his rare Richard M. Nixon signature on the title page. Fine, with dustjacket. (400/600)
142. Nixon, Richard. Typed Letter Signed in full on imprinted personal stationery, one page, quarto, New York, 27 June 1966. To Louis Blevins sending a copy of Nixon's column concerning the Vietnam problem. Article is present. Fine. (150/250)
143. O'Higgins, Ambrosio [Marques de Osorno]. 1720-1801. Irish soldier and administrator; captain of cavalry in Chilean service; defeated Araucanian Indians and founded fort of San Carlos in 1770; built road from Santiago to Valparaiso. As Viceroy of Peru he improved defenses and lines of communication. Manuscript Letter Signed in Spanish, two+ pages, folio, Conception de Chile, 19 April 1782. Military content, mentioning Dragoons, Infantry, various officers, etc. Not translated, but appears to have good military content. Fine example of a rare South American autograph from the father of Bernardo O'Higgins. Very good. (250/400)
144. O'Higgins, Ambrosio [Marques de Osorno]. Manuscript Letter Signed Ambrosio de Higgins, one and a half pages, folio, Conception, 24 May 1782. In Spanish. To an unnamed military officer concerning military business. An attractive ornately-penned letter in very good condition. (250/400)
RARE ORWELL LETTER WRITTEN THE SAME YEAR AS ANIMAL FARM
145. Orwell, George. 1903-1950. British novelist and essayist. One of the major political writers of the century. Rare Typed Letter Signed Geo. Orwell, on imprinted stationery of The Tribune, London, one page, oblong octavo, 16 August 1944. Brief letter stating: I am keeping your poem 48 Hours. The usual proviso - it will have to wait over for some time. Recipient's name crossed out, else very good. With portrait and related article. (1500/2500)
146. Peale, Norman Vincent. American clergyman. Typed Letter Signed Norman on imprinted Marble Collegiate Church stationery, one page, quarto, 15 November 1966. To U.S. Senator Jennings Randolph congratulating him on his election to the Senate. Fine. (100/150)
147. Pershing, John J. 1860-1948. American army commander. Original watercolor portrait of Pershing in uniform with a pen and ink vignette of soldiers carrying the American flag below, done by Leonore Knight, one page, tall quarto, signed by Pershing in full beneath his image. Attractive an fine. Knight was a graphic illustrator for the Los Angeles Evening Herald during the early 1920s. (200/300)
DEVELOPER OF THE INQUISITION
148. Phillip II. 1527-1598. King of Spain. Only son of Emperor Charles V and Isabella of Portugal; developed the Inquisition; lost naval supremacy in defeat of the Spanish Armada in war with England. Manuscript Letter Signed Yo el Rey as King, in Spanish, one page, folio, Nuestro, 1 October 1564. To The Council. Phillip notes the petition of Don Alonzo de Cordova y Velasco, Count of Alcandete requesting the various amounts of money which he owes be paid by him by allowing him to mortgage his inheritance and possessions. Phillip grants this proposal. Top portion of document heAvily damp-stained, not affecting signature. (600/900)
PHILIP II PROHIBITS
THE EXPORT OF ARMS
149. Phillip II. King of Spain. Ornate Manuscript Letter Signed Yo el Rey, in Spanish, one page, folio, Madrid, 24 March 1576. With red wax seal remnant and address panel on verso. To the Viceroy of Rhonda and Marbella. Philip prohibits the export of harquebusses (the predecessor of the musket), lances, muskets, and other arms from his kingdom without his permission and license and against all the existing laws of exportation. He orders the application of punishments if these orders are broken and commands the publishing of such laws in the public record: ...so that no one can claim ignorance that they did not know, or this did not come to their attention... Countersigned by Secretary Juan Delgado at the conclusion. Some light staining and light age toning. (1200/1500)
150. Piatigorsky, Gregor. His book Cellist. Garden City, New York: Doubleday, 1965. Inscribed and signed on front free endpaper. Fine, with dustjacket. (100/150)
FRANKLIN PIERCE
AND JEFFERSON DAVIS
151. Pierce, Franklin. Autograph album entitled Memory Leaves. Philadelphia: Moss and Brother, c. 1854. Brown leather with gilt-stamped spine and cover, small quarto. With small book plate affixed inside front cover: From the Library of Ed Grabhorn - at the Grabhorn Press. Interior pages bear the signature of Pierce as President and Jefferson Davis as Secretary of State as well as several other cabinet member and dignitaries, including: W.L. Marcy, James Guthrie, John E. Wool, William Seward, etc. Also a contemporary copy of a quotation from John Brown. Spine broken and loose, signatures fine. (1500/2500)
152. Pope Leo XII. 1760-1829. Pope from 1823 thru 1829. Manuscript Letter Signed as Archbishop of Tyrus and papal nuncio, in French, one page, quarto, Augusburg, 22 December 1798. To Baron d'Albini requesting the delivery of a letter to the Elector of Augusburg, then in the Holy Roman Empire, which contains Christmas and personal wishes. Very good. (600/900)
153. Rickenbacker, Edward V. 1890-1973. America's leading ace in World War I. Exceptional photographic print of a painted portrait of Rickenbacker in uniform with biplane over his shoulder in background, sepia, 8 x 10, inscribed to United States Senator Jennings Randolph and signed in full. Excellent condition. (200/300)
154. Rickover, Hyman G. American developer of the first nuclear-powered submarine. Typed Letter Signed H.G. Rickover on imprinted USS Pintado stationery, one page, quarto, At Sea, North Pacific, 7 June 1971. He writes to Congressman Thomas E. Morgan reporting on the first sea trials and testing of the USS Pintado, a 52nd attack type nuclear submarine. Fine condition. (300/400)
155. Robeson, Paul. 1898-1976. African-American singer and actor. Autograph Sentiment Signed on small page Every kind wish - Congratulations...Paul Robeson - Feb. 17, 1942. Very good, with portrait. (100/150)
T.R DECLINES TO WAIVE
AN AGE REQUIREMENT
156. Roosevelt, Theodore. 1858-1919. 26th President of the U.S. Typed Letter Signed in full as President on imprinted White House stationery, one page, quarto, Washington, 30 April 1908. To Hon. E.J. Burkett, United States Senate. He writes: I am in receipt of the letter of the 27th signed by yourself, Senator Brown and Representative Kinkaid in behalf of Mr. David B. Grosvenor. I have had to absolutely stop waiving that age requirement. I yielded to too many just such requests as this, until I found I was waiving the limit for men at least seven years over the age... Roosevelt adds in his own hand: ...if I could make any exception I would in this case. Paper clip rust stain in top blank margin, faint age toning. Roosevelt's signature and writing strong and dark. (700/900)
157. Rubinstein, Anton. 1829-1894. Russian pianist and composer whose flawless technique and fire rivaled that of Liszt. Autograph Letter Signed Ant. Rubinstein, two pages, octavo, Dresden, no date, to a gentleman. Fine musical content, in which Rubinstein declines knowledge of some details of his opera Nero. He also refers to the use of the piece by the Opera of Nice: ...it seems difficult to me that it [the Nice Opera] is in a state, materially or physically, to use the piece...I am at your disposition for all that is required for the artisitic side... Nero was first performed in 1879. Very good. (500/700)
158. [Russian Revolution - 1917]. Lot of three Autograph Letters written by an Imperial Russian Army officer caught up in the Revolution of 1917, written in English, to a friend in America. 1. 14 April 1917, he writes: After the war - if I am alive - I intend to come back to America...I do long for civilized freedom... 2. 21 July 1917, he writes again if wanting to emigrate to the U.S. 3. A lengthy, four page letter dated 16 December 1917 in which he writes: ...as early as March 1917 I foresaw nothing but anarchy, misery and disgrace for my wretched country...I cannot and will not stay in this chaos of disgrace! The Russia I was proud of, the country I loved and served is gone... He goes on to ask for help in getting to America, giving details of his diplomatic and governmental experience. He also mentions American missions currently working in Russia, including the Red Cross. Very good. With original envelopes. A very desirable group of letters on the Russian Revolution. (250/400)
159. Sabatini, Rafael. 1875-1950. Italian author and dramatist. Excellent signature Yours very truly - Rafael Sabatini on small card. Expertly matted with a 5 x 7 black and white bust portrait photograph. Fine. (60/80)
160. Santos-Dumont, Alberto. 1873-1932. Brazilian aeronaut in France; built and flew (1898) cylindrical balloon with gasoline engine and (1901) airship that won prize for making the first flight from St. Cloud around the Eiffel Tower and return. Signature Santos-Dumont - March 4th, 1902 on 12mo slip. Attractively matted with color caricature and black and white reprinted photograph of him in a balloon. Fine and scarce. (250/400)
THE MUSIC OF HEALING
161. Seeger, Pete. American folk musician and composer, and Tommy Sands. Irish folk musician and composer. Exquisite two-color letterpress broadside containing the text of their jointly-written song The Music of Healing, one page, folio, 1998. Copy number 77 of 100 copies signed by Seeger and Sands. This song was sung to politicians by fifteen Protestant children and fifteen Catholic children during an impasse in negotiations to end years of violence in Northern Ireland, causing a renewed effort by both sides, resulting in the current peace agreement. Mint condition. (100/150)
162. Seversky, Alexander P. de 1894-1974. American aviator, aeronautical engineer, military authority and ecologist. Typed Letter Signed Sasha on color-imprinted Seversky Electronatom
Corporation stationery, two pages (separate leaves) New York, 19 FebruAry 1971. To Mr. Lawrence E. Spivak of Meet the Press.In part: ...Working in this field for eighteen years, I am encountering the same human inertia, indifference, misapprehension and downright stupidity that I encountered in my fight for air power. (Incidentally, even greater stupidity in connection with air power is now being demonstrated in Vietnam.) One of these days I will have to sock everybody again, this time ecologically, from the President down to the long-haired hippie... Fine. (100/150)
163. Shepard, Ernest Howard. Illustrator. Original pen and ink illustration, signed E.H. Shepard, 16 x 23, matted to 10.5 x 18. Depicts a rocky seacoast landscape with rock climbers and an exterior and interior view of Euston Station, with passengers, baggage, etc. This illustration was apparently designed for a double-page spread in Punch, with text located in the center. Very good. (700/1000)
164. [Slave Document]. Manuscript Document, one page, quarto, Trenton, 4 May 1795, signed by a clerk of the Supreme Court of New Jersey. I do certify that Dinah, a Negro woman belonging to Barnt DeKlyne, was in the said Courts of September Term 1785, indicted for and convicted of robbing the said Barnt DeKlyne, as appears of record in my office... Fine condition, with small paper wafer seal affixed with was in upper left corner. (150/250)
165. [Slavery - Trade of Slaves]. Manuscript Letter Signed by Charles Johnstone, three pages, folio, 4 January 1798. To John Beddoe of Salford, England discussing personal views and the profitability of slave trading. In part: ...Your information on the Slave Trade at Liverpool astonishes me; except the nature of it, the profits outdo any South American mine... Fine. (100/150)
166. Smith, Thorne. Author. His book Topper Takes a Trip. Red cloth. Garden City: Doubleday, Doran, 1932. First Edition. Inscribed and signed by Smith on the front free endpaper. Mild fading to spine; near fine. (700/1000)
167. Sousa, John Philip. American bandleader and composer. Black and white, head and shoulders portrait of Sousa in uniform with several medals on his chest, 7.25 x 9.5, signed in full in light area of upper left, 1923. Contained in original dark wood frame. Very good. (300/400)
168. [Spanish-American War]. Typed Letter Signed by Henry A. Barnhart, Publisher of The Sentinel newspaper, Rochester, Indiana, on imprinted Sentinel stationery, two separate pages, quarto, 23 May 1898. To the men of the 158th Regiment, Company B Indiana Volunteers, Lytle, Georgia who have not been receiving their Sentinels regularly. He writes: The most interesting reading in the Sentinel is the letters from the soldier boys...when the news reached here Sunday morning that Sampson had sunk the Spanish fleet the people were all feeling hilarious...While we today learn that the report was erroneous, we still believe that indications point to the utter defeat of the Flotilla...Barney Carter has twin babies, Theodore Ice is glad that Dewey ‘licked Vanilla,' Jonas Myers is talking politics, Os. Johnson is talking of buying a hound and the baseball cranks seem to have wintered over in good condition... Fine, with cover. (100/150)
169. [Spanish-American War]. Autograph Letter Signed by F.W. Davis to a friend, four separate pages, quarto, Camp Geo. H. Thomas, 23 Aug 1898. Interesting letter giving details of camp life, a parade and sickness: ...we all gathered around the Colonel and made him give us a speech which was followed by nearly all the Field Officers. There were loud calls for Maj. Skinner but he failed to appear and I learned afterwards that he was down to the Canteens...The sickness is increasing in camp and if they don't get us out of here pretty soon there will not be enough well to take care of the sick. Our regiment has about the best health in camp and we have four in the hospital with Typhoid now... Fine. (100/150)
170. Stockton, Robert F. 1795-1866. American naval officer. Co-operated with the army in conquering California and prematurely proclaimed California a territory of the United States ( 17 August 1846). Autograph Letter Signed, one page, quarto, Philadelphia, 28 December 1842. To John S. Skinner concerning sending him a wagon by railroad transport line and writing that he will render him a bill in due course. Fine. (300/400)
171. Stoker, Bram. 1847-1912. British author of Dracula, etc. and Sir Henry Irving. 181838-1905. English actor. Autograph Letter entirely written in Stoker's hand but signed by Irving written on imprinted stationery from Irving's 1891 theatrical tour, two pages, octavo, Edinburgh, 18 November 1891. To the founder of the South London Fine Arts Gallery, Mr. William Rossiter. I am very sorry that H.R.H. [Edward VII then Prince of Wales] could not find it possible to open the new gallery... This letter is written by Stoker who, at the time, served as Irving's personal manager. Light soiling with one small tear in upper margin. (200/300)
172. Stravinsky, Igor. 1882-1971. Russian composer. Typed Letter Signed I. Stravinski, one page, quarto, Hollywood, 21 June 1950. To Arnold Weissberger sending a copy of Rake's Progress and stating: ...waiting for the next developments, and expecting to hear from you before long... Fine. (250/400)
173. Stravinsky, Igor. Typed Letter Signed IStr. in pencil, one page, quarto, Hollywood, 4 July 1957. To Arnold Weissberger. Stravinsky declines to accept a contract to compose citing his very heavy schedule over the coming months and a need for rest following his recent illness. He lists details of his pending personal appearances. Two file holes in blank left margin, else fine. (150/250)
174. Stravinsky, Igor. Two Typed Letters Signed with initials IStr. each one page, oblong octavo, Hollywood, 20 January and 14 July 1958. To Arnold Weissberger. He writes briefly concerning his schedule for an appearance in Santa Fe. Both letters in fine condition. (200/300)
175. Taft, William H. 1857-1930. 27th President of the U.S. Scarce early Typed Letter Signed Wm. H. Taft as Circuit Judge on imprinted United States Court Chambers - Western District of Tennessee stationery, one page, octavo, Memphis, 3 December 1895. To George Leonard. Taft asks for a correction in a will concerning stock in the Commercial National Bank. With four line holograph postscript by Taft about his schedule. Excellent condition with original envelope. Desirable early legal letter by the future President and Supreme Court Justice. (200/300)
176. Tarkington, Booth. 1869-1946. Partly-printed Document Signed, one page, legal folio, New York, 28 December 1932. Contract with MGM for film rights to Presenting Lily Mars, which MGM released in 1943, starring Judy Garland. Two file holes in top blank margin, light age toning. (250/300)
177. Tenniel, John. 1820-1914. English illustrator of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures In Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Autograph Letter Signed in full on imprinted 10, Portsdown Road, Maida Hill, W. stationery, one page, octavo, 30 September 1896. To Sir Henry Thompson accepting his invitation to the Octave on the 13th of October. Four small areas of tape residue along blank edges, else very good. (100/150)
178. Tenniel, John. Lot of two items. 1. Autograph Letter Signed in full on imprinted 10, Portsdown Road, Maida Hill, W. stationery, one page, octavo, 30 May 1882. To Miss Elmore accepting her invitation to dinner on Thursday. 2. Full signature and close cut from letter: Kind love to all - your affectionate uncle - John Tenniel. Fine condition. (100/150)
179. [Texas Legal Document - 1835]. Manuscript Legal Document, one page, folio, 27 April 1835. Interesting document concerning the services of William English and a colleague as executors. Browned with age, writing strong. (100/150)
180. Truman, Harry S. 33rd President of the United States. Scarce copy of his book Truman Speaks. New York: Columbia University Press, 1960. First edition, 133 pages, octavo, with dustjacket. Inscribed and signed by Truman on half title page. Fine. (350/500)
181. Truman, Harry S. His book Mr. Citizen. New York: Bernard Geis Associates, 1960. 315 pages, quarto, with dustjacket. Inscribed and signed by Truman on half title page. Fine. (300/400)
182. [United States Centennial]. Colorful ornate embroidered silk ribbon commemorating the United States centennial 1776-1876, 2 x 10, featuring a portrait of George Washington with flags and the quote The first in peace - The first in war - The first in the hearts of his countrymen, Philadelphia, 1876. Fine condition. (150/250)
183. Victoria. 1819-1901. Queen of Great Britain and Ireland. Ornate partly-printed Document Signed as Queen, one page, oblong folio, Court at Saint James, 16 February 1839. Appointment of Thomas Hamilton as Lt. Colonel of the 19th Regiment of Foot. Usual folds and minor foxing along right edge. Embossed paper wafer seal affixed with red wax in left margin with a large signature of Victoria above. Victoria's name is engraved in large ornate letters at top. (500/700)
184. [Vietnam]. Creighton W. Abrams. 1914-1974. Succeeded Westmoreland as commander of U.S. forces in Vietnam, 1968-72. Typed Letter Signed in full on color, four-star flag stationery, one page, quarto, 25 November 1968. Thanking Mr. Blevins for prayers of support for our service personnel in Vietnam. Fine. (100/150)
185. Walton, George. 1741-1804. Signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. Governor of Georgia. Partly-printed Document Signed as Chief Justice of Georgia, one page, folio, October 1781. Walton lets process be issued, granting plaintiff's petition in a lawsuit. Some light stains and age toning, else very good. (800/1200)
WASHINGTON RECEIVES
PACKAGES FROM LAFAYETTE
186. Washington, George. 1732-1799. First President of the United States. Autograph Letter Signed, one page, quarto, Mount Vernon, 29 March 1784. To
Captain Joshua Barney. With integral address-leaf addressed in his hand, bearing Washington's personal red wax seal in two pieces. Washington writes: The bearer is sent for the packages you were pleased to inform me were in your care from the Marq. de la Fayette for my use. Your delivery of them to him will very much oblige. Light age toning, with four small areas of mounting remnants on address-leaf, Washington's writing strong.
General Washington had resigned his commission before Congress at Annapolis on December 23, 1783. An event which was highly emotional. After shaking hands with all of the delegates, Washington and his companions pressed on towards Mount Vernon, arriving in time to celebrate Christmas with his wife, martha. He began his retirement at Mount Vernon undertaking many improvements to the house including paving the piazza with flagstones, building a greenhouse, making plans for a better way of keeping ice in the summer and working on a new stucco-decorated room. He paid for and put into use French plate ordered for him by LaFayette, and replenished his stock of claret.
Joshua Barney, 1759-1818. Revolutionary War Naval Officer. Captured three times by the British. After escaping from Portsmouth prison, he captured the British frigate General Monk in 1782. He sailed for France in the General Monk in November 1782 with dispatches for Benjamin Franklin and returned wit the information that preliminaries of peace had been signed with the British, and bringing a large sum lent by the French government.
The Marquis de LaFayette, at Washington's invitation, returned to the United States later in 1784 and following a visit to Mount Vernon made a journey through the country from Virginia to Massachusetts. See illustration on front cover. (18000/22000)
Signed by
Washington and Jeferson
187. Washington, George. 1732-1799. First President of the United States. Document signed, being ship's papers in three languages, countersigned by Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State, and by John Habersham, Collector of Customs at Savannah. With seal affixed. 16¼x13¼.
No place: 7 February 1794
Ship's papers granting passage to the schooner Abigail, captained by Jonathan Cushman, from Savannah to the West Indies, signed by George Washington as President and Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State. In French, English and German. Dampstained, chipped at right edge affecting a bit of the German text, a few other small chips, two spots with remains of sealing wax affecting the English portion, laid on backing sheet; else in good to very good condition. (8000/12,000)
188. Wells, H.G. 1866-1946. English novelist. Autograph Letter Signed H.G. Wells, on imprinted Easton Glebe, Dunmow stationery, one page, octavo, no date. He writes to Lawrence saying that he has not had a chance to look at the books yet. Very good. (250/350)
I ONLY WRITE FICTION
189. Wilder, Thornton. 1897-1975. American novelist and playwright. Autograph Letter Signed in full on his address-imprinted stationery, one page, quarto, New Haven, no date. In full: Dear Mr. Reynolds, Sorry, I only write fiction. Best wishes to your plan though. Lightly and uniformly browned with age. (80/120)
190. [Wisconsin Territory - Pike River Settler's Letter]. Autograph Letter by L. Tuttle, two pages, quarto, Pike, Wisconsin Territory, 22 August 1836. Lengthy letter giving full details of working the landing, planting crops, the scarcity of provisions, etc. Very good content letter. (100/150)
191. Wolf Bounty) Holograph receipt from Hopewell Township, Washington County, for reward money to be paid for "one grown wolf's scalp with the ears on," killed by Nicolas Crist January, 1786. Washington County: Oct. 10, 1786. Signed by Samuel Johnston. Apparently in 1786, and in fact up until recently, there was a bounty paid by the government for the killing of wolves, who detracted eagerly from the livestock kept by American farmers. Near fine. (200/300)
192. Woollcott, Alexander. 1887-1943. American journalist and writer. Typed Letter Signed Alexander W. on imprinted personal stationery, one page, small quarto, 17 November 1936. To Brother Clark concerning building a new home. Fine, with cover. (150/250)
RARE PHOTOGRAPH SIGNED BY ALL ELEVEN MEMBERS OF THE INTERNATIONAL MILITARY
TRIBUNAL FOR THE FAR EAST
193. [World War II]. Japanese War Crimes Tribunal. Rare black and white photograph, oblong 11 x 14, of the eleven member International Military Tribunal for the Far East which sat in judgement of Japanese war criminals, known as the Tokyo Trial. Signed by all eleven members in the wide blank lower margin. Including: Sir William F. Webb of Australia as Presiding Judge, E. Stuart McDougall of Canada, Ju-ao Mei of China, Henri Bernard of France, Delfin Jaranilla of the Philippines, Bernard Victor A. Roling of the Netherlands, Erima Harvey Northeroft of New Zealand, I.M. Zaryanov of the Soviet Union, Lord Patrick of Great Britain, Maj. Gen. Myron C. Gramer of the United States and R.M. Pal of India. A dramatic photograph of the eleven men seated, in judgment, at the trial, with the various flags of their countries behind them. Contained in original frame with narrow white matting. Very good.
The Tokyo Trial was a trial of 28 Class A Japanese war criminals, including: Hideki Tojo, Kenji Doihara, etc., and began on 3 May 1946. The trial is believed by many to have been a failure due to the fact that a majority of Class A war criminals were not tried but released, with only 28 of the first group of 70 being brought to trial. Most of the released men returned immediately to the Japanese political arena. (2000/2500)
194. Wouk, Herman. His book The Caine Mutiny. New York: Doubleday, 1952. Illustrated edition. Contains special presentation to booksellers. Signed by Wouk on front flyleaf. Very good, with chipped and torn dustjacket. (150/250)
Autographs & Manuscripts
Lots 1. ADAMS through 102. HAWAIIAN
Lots 103. HOLLYWOOD through 194. WOUK
Printed Americana
Lots 195. ADIRONDACKS through 253. CIVIL
Lots 254. CIVIL through 312. MEDICAL
Lots 313. Melville through 377. ROCKWELL
Contact Us
comments or suggestions