Conrad, Joseph

thanking him for his thoughts at a time when Borys was fighting on the Western Front ("...He is right in the thick of things, for at the beginning of this attack he was only about 12 miles for St. Quentin...") and discussing Papa's War and other Satires, Garnett's forthcoming collection of pieces on the war and its conduct, but explaining that he is so anxious that "the few distressed thoughts that are knocking about in my head I am totally unable to put into words", 2 pages, 4to, Capel House, Orlestone, near Ashford, Kent, 27 March 1918, with typed addressed envelope

Christie's East, New York, 27 September 1995, lot 10

Collected Letters, VI, p.198

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."

A poignant letter of paternal anxiety. Conrad's concern for his son's safety was not misplaced: the Battle of St. Quentin was the first stage of "Operation Michael" that began the German Spring Offensive of 1918; the action resulted in some British 178,000 casualties in the two weeks from 21 March.