Autographs
SAMUEL LANGHORNE CLEMENS (Mark Twain) Letter
SAMUEL LANGHORNE CLEMENS, “MARK TWAIN” (1835-1910). American Author and Humorist best known works are “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
January 21, 1882-Dated, Autograph Letter Signed, “S. L. Clemens,” 1 page, measuring approximately 5.125” x 7.5” (by sight), Extremely Fine. Along with a period wove paper Engraving of Samuel Clemens personally signed “S Hollyer,” by artist Samuel Hollyer, measuring approximately 6.25” x 9.25” (by sight). These are both matted together to an overall size of 16.25” x 13” for display. In this Handwritten Letter, Clemens personally writes, in full:

“Hartford, January 21/82. ---- Dear Sir -

As this is a matter which is in the hands of my London publishers (Messrs. Chatto & Windus), I have taken the liberty to forward your favor of Dec. 31st to them this day. ---- With great respect, I am truly yours, -- (Signed) “S.L. Clemens.”

The signature, “S.L. Clemens” measurers fully 2.75” long and is very clear and readable. The Engraving is Signed by the Artist with a notation in his hand, reading: “First State.” Accompanied by a copy of a typed letter to Carol Beales at the Copley Library, from Richard Bucci, of the Mark Twain Papers, Bancroft Library, University of California at Berkeley. Buccui states that he believes this is an illustration sent by Clemens to his English publishers with the idea of possibly using this illustration, created by a well know and popular English artist. This matched pair has been together since at least 1945 when it was then offered by Swann Galleries. Also included is additional research information as provided by Mr. Bucci to the Copley Library. Unique, and quite wonderful for display.
Samuel Clemens was born in Florida, Missouri. After he tried several failed careers, he settled on being an editor for the Virginia City Territorial Enterprise in Nevada. Later he began writing, and some of his early tales include “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County” and “Innocents Abroad.”

His best known works are “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and, of course, “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Ernest Hemingway once said, "All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn - all American writing comes from that. There was nothing before. There has been nothing as good since."