Johns, W.E.

i) carbon typescript letter from Johns to “dear Martin” discussing publishing schemes (“The Silver Falcons. This is a suggested title for a series… about a character of the Biggles type…”) (2 pages, 23 September 1946)--ii) autograph letter signed (“Enid Blyton”) to Johns giving advice about a book deal with Marks and Spencer and “repercussions on the book trade” (“…booksellers are a foolish lot but not quite so foolish as to cut off their noses to spite their face. Anyway, I’m big enough…”) (4 pages, 15 June 1945)--iii) typed letter signed (“Peter Watt”) to Johns suggesting that the author employs a literary agent (1 page, 28 September 1939)--iv) significant series of c. 420 typed letters signed from Johns’ literary agents, A.P. Watt, to the author discussing contracts, terms, broadcasts, translations, publications, etc. (c.530 pages, January 1947 through to November 1951)--v) collection of invoices and receipts many relating to Johns’ car, whisky, income tax, accommodation, fishing, furnishings, solicitors, etc. (c.60 pages, June 1947 – October 1951)--vi) printed map of the Empire Air Mail Scheme… 1936, Imperial Airways, 1937, APPARENTLY FROM THE AUTHOR’S STUDY WALL AND USED TO MAP ROUTES FOR BIGGLES STORIES; qty, some spotting and browning, occasional rust stains, some creases

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Johns appears to have developed a close relationship with his literary agents and the extensive correspondence offered here offers some significant detail on the publishing history of the author.