DU MAURIER DAPHNE: (1907-1989) British Author. T.L.S., Daphne, three pages, 8vo, Menabilly, Par, Cornwall, n.d. ('Good Friday', c.1960), to 'My dear' (Foy Quiller-Couch). Du Maurier writes regarding her work Castle Dor, 'The Justice's Clerk a good idea. I hope he will bear in mind the period - 1860's. (On the other hand this might make things worse. Foreigners might have been deported at the flick of an eye!)' continuing 'What a nice letter from Mr. Bozman. He could have made many quibbles which would have necessitated some re-writing - always a nightmare - but pruning is easy to do, I am well trained in it. I think he probably means the conversations between Carfax and Ledru, over their punch, and on the way to Lantvan, and then again over dinner - which could be said to hold up action. Anyway, it is simple enough to cut them down'. Du Maurier also writes of social matters and her family, 'I hate “the roads” this time of year, and dread the whizzing down of Kits' and his crony in a fast sports car. As to the gentleman at the Palace, or rather from the Palace, it is a quarter to twelve and he is still abed - our Esther is waiting to cook his breakfast, with the steaks for lunch ready in the pan…..The Guardsman, for the first time in his life, has disappeared to the 3 hour service at Tywardreath church….' One small tape stain to the upper edge of the first page, not affecting the text or signature, otherwise VG

Foy Quiller-Couch - daughter of British writer Arthur Quiller-Couch (1863-1944), and a life-long friend of Du Maurier. Indeed, Du Maurier was accompanied by Foy Quiller-Couch when she became inspired with the storyline for her novel Jamaica Inn. Some years previously the two ladies were staying at Jamaica Inn and went riding on Bodmin Moor. They became lost in bad weather conditions and apparently sheltered for some time in a derelict cottage on the moor but were eventually led back to Jamaica Inn by their horses.

Castle Dor is a historical novel which was not completed by Arthur Quiller-Couch at the time of his death. Du Maurier completed the work, at the request of Foy Quiller-Couch, which was published in 1961. The story is based around the legend of Tristan and Iseult, although set in 19th century Cornwall.