Lot 448
  • 448

SAMUEL CLEMENS ("MARK TWAIN"), TWO AUTOGRAPH LETTERS SIGNED, TO ANDREW CHATTO, 1896, WITH THREE RELATED LETTERS

Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Clemens, S.L. [''Mark Twain'']
  • Two autograph letters signed (“S.L. Clemens”), to Andrew Chatto, Jr
  • ink on paper
The first asking him to accompany him and his family to buy bicycles on Regent Street, the second thanking him “for the trouble you have taken for us about those bicycles”, 2 pages, integral blanks, mourning stationery, 8vo, [London], 20-22 November 1896, with one autograph envelope, [with:] three further letters on the same subject by Jean, Clara, and Olivia Clemens, 8 pages, 23-30 November 1896

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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."

Catalogue Note

Get a bicycle. You will not regret it, if you live. (Mark Twain) The Clemens family resided in Chelsea from the autumn of 1896 to the following June. It was a period of deep distress for the family, following the death of Samuel and Olivia's daughter Susy in August. With the help of Andrew Chatto, Jr, his British publisher's son, Clemens and his family acquired 'Swift' Safety Bicycles. With equal-sized wheels and a chain-drive, these machines were much easier to ride and safer than the Penny Farthing, which Clemens memorably described learning to ride in 'Taming the Bicycle', and were also considered more suitable for women.