James, Alice

praising his critical acumen in describing the novels of her brother-in-law Henry James ("...How wonderful of you to say the intimate, perfect word of that patient, much misconceived writer. It is so apt, so real, that I sit almost bewildered that it should never have been said...") and saying how much her sons enjoy his work, 3 pages, small 4to, headed stationery of 994 Chestnut Street, California, 13 July 1921, docketed by Conrad ("19/8/21 JC"), small fold tears, slight smudge on final page

Christie's, New York, 7 February 1986, lot 176

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."

Alice Howe James, née Gibbens (1849-1922), was the widow of William James. The phrase that captured her imagination was Conrad's assertion that "the fair truth of human delicacy can be found in Mr. Henry James's novels" in his 1905 essay "Books", which had just been reprinted in Notes on Life and Letters.