Dickens, Charles.

suggesting changes to Leigh's 'A Tale of the Good Old Times' (published in Household Words in April 1850) and noting 'some such change as this, and the intimation that we must always go on improving the times, would adapt it perfectly to my purpose', 2 pages, 8vo, 148 King's Road, Brighton, 10 March 1850, creases, remains of mounting on final blank page

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when 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."

A fine example of Dickens' role as an editor, suggesting artistic revisions to a contribution for Household Words. Percival Leigh (1813-1889) published a successful series of volumes with John Leech before becoming a regular contributor to Punch. He is also remembered for his Ye manners and customs of ye Englyshe, published in 1849 with illustrations by Richard Doyle. Leigh and Dickens were also members of the same amateur acting company. This letter is published in The Letters of Charles Dickens Vol VI (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1988) although the text relies on a transcript in the Huntington Library.