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DATIN, Frank (?-?)
Signed Postal Card
On October 4 1929 a bit of aviation history took place in Punxsutawney Pennsylvania when the Grube Airport officially opened and the first airmail from that airport was flown; Transcontinental Air Mail Service Datin flew 2200 letters to Pittsburgh 300 of them signed by him; two days later he died in a biplane crash during a stunt exhibition at Ebensberg Pennsylvania. Signed Postal Card heavy stock 9¼" X 5" Punxsatawney PA 1929 October 4. Addressed to George W. Kessler. Very good. Mild bit of wear. One side of this large picture postcard depicts a typical airplane of the day likely a Transcontinental Air Mail Service plane soaring amidst a cloudy sky. The message side bears the 5-cent "Air Mail" stamp and a McKeesport Pennsylvania cancellation of 1929 October 8. The message portion bears a finely printed note: "Dear Sir: -- It was my privilege to carry your Air Mail yesterday. Thanks very kindly for your patronage. My reward will be your continued use of the Air Mail." Above the closing word "Pilot" Datin signs boldly in black ink. At center of this side is a large square special cancellation honoring the dedication of the Grube Airport and indicating "Friday October 4 1929 / Punxsatawney - Pennsylvania." A handsome and decorative piece with a two large blue and red stripes running horizontally across the top with "VIA AIR MAIL" printed between. The record shows that special airmail envelopes were selling well on that day at the dedication -- presumably this very type of commemorative card bearing this special one-day-only cancellation. This would have been one of the 300 items signed by Datin flown on that very day. Ironically by the time this was further cancelled in McKeesport Datin had been dead for two days. A most unusual and scarce aviation and philatelic item. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31340
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TALBOT, Thomas (1818-86)
Signature / Unsigned Leaflet
This Massachusetts politician was named acting governor 1874-75 when the current governor won a Senate election but he lost the next election; in 1878 he was elected serving until 1880. Bold signature in brown heavy stock 3" X 2" card n.p. n.y. Fine. Mounting traces on verso. Accompanied by an unsigned leaflet "Veto of the Liquor License Bill" small 8vo 4 3/4" X 8" 4pp published by The Grand Division of Massachusetts in 1874. Very good. Minor mounting traces along margin of last page not affecting text. Text of one of Governor Talbot's best-known acts his veto of legislation to repeal the state's prohibition law. An interesting pair. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31373
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(DRIESCH, Hans Adolf, 1867-1941). DRIESCH, Margarete Relfferschneidt (?-ca 1946)
Photograph Signed / Calling Card
Wife of the influential German philosopher/scientist whose pioneering research on embryology resulted in his philosophy of entelechy -- the science and philosophy of the organism. PS 4" X 6" n.p. n.y. Very good. Sepia tone head-and-shoulders formal portrait of an older Mrs. Driesch set within an oval. She signs large and bold "Margarete Driesch" in black ink on a darkish area below her portrait making for contrast that is decent but not outstanding. Unusual. Also present is her printed calling card "Frau Margarete Driesch / Geb. Reifferscheidt" heavy stock 4¼" X 1 3/4". Near fine. On the bottom margin she pens her address "Leipzig" and "Zollnerstr. 1" and on the verso she pens the address of the recipient of this photograph "To Prof. T.H. Morgan / 117. Street No. 409 / New York City" in brown ink. Thomas Hunt Morgan 1866-1945 was an influential American embryologist geneticist and biologist who won the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1933; in 1905 he and Driesch corresponded about embryology issues which is likely around the time this photograph was sent. An interesting pair. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31387
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HAMPDEN, Richard (1631-95), FOX, Stephen (1627-1702) and PELHAM, Thomas (1650-1712)
Partial Document Signed
English statesman Hampden son of famed statesman Henry from King Charles I's reign was named privy councillor in 1689 commissioner of the Treasury in 1690 and from 1690 to 1694 also served as chancellor of the Exchequer; politician Fox served as commissioner of the Treasury for 23 years from 1679 to 1702; and statesman Pelham the 1st Baron Pelham of Laughton is well known as father of two prime ministers Henry and the Duke of Newcastle himself served as Lord Commissioner of the Treasury 1690-92 1697-99 1701-02. Signatures clipped from printed document 3" X 7½" n.p. London England 1691 January 12. Very good. Slight bit of age toning; minor mounting trace on verso. Likely clipped from a routine Treasury document this item bears a slim row of printed down the top 3½" of the left margin only about 3/4" wide -- boilerplate text in a large typeface but not enough to make sense of it. Hampden Fox and Pelham each sign in rich brown ink one above the other all as commissioners of the Treasury. A partial handwritten text in another hand runs across the lower 3" signed at the close by one "Howard" as yet unidentified. Various noted Howards of the period have been considered -- Edward Charles Robert -- and ruled out but this is probably a high Treasury official. Although a partial piece nevertheless attractive. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31424
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LEWENHAUPT, Augusta (1830-1092)
Autograph Letter Signed
This countess hailed from an ancient Swedish noble family and was married to Danish diplomat and foreign minister Count Lewenhaupt Lensgrave Wulf Heinrich Bernhard von Scheel-Plessen 1809-76. ALS 4pp 4½" X 7" Hoosick Falls NY 1884 August 5. Addressed to Mrs. Lathers Abby Pitnam Thurston Latham d. 1904 wife of noted New York merchant and banker Colonel Richard Lathers 1821-1903. Near fine. Gracious note to a friend reading in part: ".I feel very much ashamed of myself not to have thanked you long ago for your kindness to forward my tubs & I have no excuse whatever for such bad behavior! Your kind letter of Aug. 3 reached me yesterday and it gave me much pleasure to get these lines from you and to hear that you are back & enjoying your summer. I wish I could have joined you at your picnic by the lake; how often I think of those lovely pone-lilies & wish I could paddle in the 'outlet.'. Count Lewenhaupt her son joins me with kind remembrances to yourself and husband." Handsomely penned in black ink on high quality lettersheet featuring an embossed crown insignia. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31473
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GIBSON, Charles Dana (1867-1944)
Autograph Note Signed
This renowned American artist and illustrator created the "Gibson Girl" the very image of the turn-of-the-century American female setting a standard for fashion and hair style from the 1890s through the beginning of the First World War. ANS 2pp 4½" X 6 3/4" n.p. n.y. Addressed to "Bob." Very good. Large pale green pencilled checkmark and "A" for answered on first page else clean and attractive. On pale blue lettersheet Gibson in his characteristic enormous scrawl accepts an invitation: "I am coming up to N.Y. tomorrow friday so if you have no other engagements lets get together Saturday. They were all disappointed because you couldn't come down here." Large bold signature. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31493
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STAMOS, Theodoros (1922-97)
Signed First Day Cover
This Greek-born American artist was the youngest of that fabled group of abstract expressionist painters that included Jackson Pollock Mark Rothko and Willem de Kooning active in New York in the 1940s and '50s. Signed First Day Cover 6½" X 3½" cancelled in Boston Massachusetts on 27 October 1976 and with "First Day of Issue" boldly stamped. Single 13-cent "Winter Pastime" Christmas stamp at upper right. Simple blue and gold "First Day Cover" printed cachet at left. No distracting recipient's name/address. Just right of center Stamos signs boldly in black ballpoint -- unfortunately his pen skips on the first name only which he partly overwrites. A most uncommon signature. This stamp NOT designed by Stamos by the way but by Stevan Dohanos. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31516
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BELAUNDE, Victor Andres (1883-1966)
Signed First Day Cover
This Peruvian diplomat served as president of the General Assembly of the United Nations from 1959 to 1960. Signed First Day Cover 6½" X 3½" cancelled at the United Nations in New York on 23 October 1959 and with "First Day of Issue" boldly stamped. Near fine. Single 4-cent "Trusteeship Council" stamp at upper right and large printed Artmaster cachet at left. No distracting recipient's name/address. Near the center above the postal cancellation Belaunde signs in blue ballpoint. Rather uncommon. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31521
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NELMS, George H (1905-99)
Typed Note Signed
This Canadian optician was elected mayor of Ottawa in 1957 serving until 1960; the high point of his administration was his welcoming Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip to Ottawa in 1957 during which time they took part in a ceremony to begin construction of the Queensway superhighway project. TNS 1p 8" X 10" Ottawa Canada 1957 November 27. Addressed to Bruno J. Gianetti. Very good. Light age toning; mounting traces on verso. On ornate "Office of the Mayor" letterhead the newly-elected mayor comments on the best-known event of his reign just after its occurrence: ".I am sending along now a photograph of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and myself taken at one of the functions when Her Majesty was in Ottawa prior to Her Majesty's visit to the United States in October 1957." Large bold full signature. Alas the photograph mentioned is not present. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31594
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BRASS, William (1st Baron Chattisham) (1886-1945)
Autograph Letter Signed
This conservative British politician was a Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force pilot during World War One then was elected to Parliament in 1922 serving until 1945; he also held posts at the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Aircraft Production and from 1939 to 1945 served as chairman of the British Film Institute; he was knighted in 1929 and raised to the peerage shortly before his death in 1945. ALS 2pp 4½" X 7¼" London England 1938 February 16. Addressed to Pauline Astor Spender Clay 1880-1972 widow of Herbert Henry Spender Clay 1875-1937 Member of Parliament and Privy Counsellor. Near fine. On letterhead bearing an oval "House of Commons" blind emboss Brass handsomely pens his condolences to the recently-widowed Mrs. Spender Clay. He remarks "I have known Bertie ever since I entered the 'House' in 1922 and have been a member of his group since its inception. His kindness and charm endeared him to all parties in the House. He will be sadly missed by his many friends whom he enchanted with his courtesy modesty and humour. The Country has lost a great gentleman whom it could ill afford to spare." Most attractive. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31634
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PALMERSTON, Henry John Temple, Lord (1784-1865)
Free-Franked Envelope
This popular and influential English statesman served often as foreign minister and twice 1855-58 1859-65 as prime minister; he is mainly remembered for ending the Crimean War. Free-Franked Envelope a signed envelope front panel 4 3/4" X 3" Sligo Ireland 1824 September 6. Barely visible red postal inkstamp. Very good. Boldly addressed in Palmerston's handsome hand to Lady Gore Booth at Lissadeil Sligo. Signed with his usual "Palmerston" at lower left. Very attractive. Palmerston was secretary for war at this time. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31673
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HOFFMAN, John T (1828-88)
Autograph Letter Signed
One of only two mayors of New York City 1866-68 to be elected that state's governor 1869-72 this politician's association with corrupt William Tweed and Tammany Hall ruined his political career. ALS 2pp 5" X 8" New York NY 1872 August 7. Addressed to Richard Lathers 1821-1903 prominent Charleston and later New York commission merchant banker diplomat insurance and railroad executive. Near fine. Cordial note to a friend: "I am on my way to your family at Newport and will go with them to White Mountains. I cannot hope to accept your kind offer this Summer unless perhaps for a single day when I can stop over on going between Albany and Newport. I read your speech this morning with great pleasure." Boldly penned in Hoffman's large ornate script in brown ink. An attractive example. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31733
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GIRDNER, John H (ca 1857-1933)
Typed Letter Signed
This prominent New York physician a close friend of William Jennings Bryan was brought in as a consultant after the assassination attempt on President Garfield and was the last survivor of the four physicians brought in to attend the president; he took part in Alexander Graham Bell's disastrous attempt to use metal detection to pinpoint and extract the bullet causing a fatal infection; later he developed the Girdner telephonic bullet probe supposedly plagiarizing the concept from Bell; in 1869 he was the first physician to use cadaver skin to cover a burn wound on a 10-year-old child. TLS 1p 8½" X 11" New York NY 1912 March 22. Addressed to Charles White of the New York Hall of Records later a noted Abraham Lincoln scholar. Very good. Moderately age toned. Chatty note to the tax commissioner on his medical office letterhead reading in part: "I regret as much as you can that we do not see more of each other but I have got an endless job on my hands which requires all my time sleeping and waking." Of his profession Girdner remarks: "You remember I used to want to reform other people and things: well one day I looked myself over and I have been a busy man ever since and the end of the job is not in sight. You call me a 'rich physician' and so I am but my wealth is not of the kind your office recognises as taxable fortunately for me. I think you do yourself an injustice when you speak of having 'slipped back'. You know the old Methodist doctrine that one 'cannot fall from grace' and I am certain that when I knew you you were so well grounded in the faith that not even the temptations etc. of your present occupation and environment can drag you down." Bold full signature. Most unusual. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31730
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JAMES, Charles T (1805-62)
Signature
This Democratic senator from Rhode Island 1851-57 was an engineer and machinist and developed a promising new projectile called the "James projectile"; while a major general in the Rhode Island State Militia in 1862 his invention was being demonstrated at Sag Harbor New York when one of his shells accidentally exploded killing him. Clipped signature 2½" X 1" tan stock n.p. n.y. Very good. Boldly penned in brown ink likely during his senatorial career. Uncommon. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31710
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SALK, Daniel (ca 1890-?) and SALK, Dora Press (ca 1890-?)
Photograph Signed
The parents of Jonas Salk 1914-95 pioneering virologist and medical researcher who created the world's first effective polio vaccine were Polish-Jewish immigrants he a designer and manufacturer of women's clothing. Unusual PS heavy stock 10" X 8" n.p. n.y. ca. late 1950s. Near fine. An original "Wide World Photos" news agency photograph so inkstamped on verso. Superb matte-finish portrait of the proud parents in later years seated side by side. Each signs boldly in full in black ink beneath their image -- he on his light colored pants making for excellent contrast she on a darker skirt making for average contrast. Most unusual -- probably obtained in the years immediately following the triumphant debut of their son's crowning achievement in 1955 when he was being hailed as a miracle worker and medical pioneer par excellence. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31761
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BROWN, John Carter (1934-2002)
Signed First Day Cover
This American museum director oversaw the U.S. National Gallery of Art from 1969 to 1992 and made it the renowned institution it is today. Signed First Day Cover 6½" X 3½" cancelled in Washington DC on 17 September 1965 and with "First Day of Issue" boldly stamped. Single 5-cent "John Copley American Artist" stamp at upper right. Fine. Left side bears fine printed Art Craft cachet "Honoring John Singleton Copley 1737-1815" cachet. At upper center above the cancellation Sloan signs his usual small stylized signature in black fountain pen. A superb example of this influential figure's signature on an appropriate cover. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31764
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CHARLES IX (1550-74)
Document Signed
When France's King Henry II died in 1559 and his sickly 15-year-old heir Francis II followed the next year the throne went to 10-year-old Charles Maximilian who became Charles IX; his mother Catherine de' Medici dominated his reign which is noted for the Wars of Religion and for the infamous St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre of 1572. Partial vellum DS 1p 11" X 8" n.p. n.y. September 1570 lightly pencilled in another hand. Very good. Folds and mild bit of wear evident but overall handsome and boldly penned. Though penned in difficult early French which is to modern French what Elizabethan English is to modern English and not accompanied by a translation this is a probate approval legal document. Below six lines of finely penned legalese Charles signs at left with his usual enormous signature in a different and somewhat lighter ink. Below this appears another sentence in a large flamboyant hand which appears to refer to Provence and huge ornate signature of an official. This atmospheric piece has been archivally free-floated against a cream matte with a surrounding raised cream matte framed in a contemporary 1" walnut frame overall dimensions 18½" X 16". A beautiful display item. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31963
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GOTTSCHALK, Alfred LM (1873-1918) L M
Autograph Note Signed
This newspaper correspondent turned diplomat served as U.S. Consul to Callao 1903-05 and U.S. Consul General in Callao 1905-06 Mexico City 1906-08 and Rio de Janeiro 1914-17; he died along with 305 crew and sailors when the U.S. Navy ship "Cyclops" sank mysteriously in the North Atlantic Ocean on its way from Brazil to Baltimore during World War One its wreckage never found. ANS 1p 4½" X 7" Delhi India 1909 December 6. Addressed to the Treasurer of Washington D.C.'s Cosmos Club. Near fine. On a pale green lettersheet Gottschalk tells the treasurer of this prestigious club "I take pleasure in enclosing my cheque for $15.00 for dues as a non-resident member for the calendar year 1910." Boldly and handsomely penned in black ink. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31966
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BIDDULPH, Sir Thomas (1809-78)
Autograph Note Signed third person
This British army officer major 7th Light Dragoons and courtier was appointed master of her majesty's household in 1861 and in 1866 named one of the joint keepers of her majesty's privy purse sole keeper after 1867 and as such according to Sir Theodore Martin in "The Life of His Highness the Prince Consort" "he was the last survivor of the three very able men. who had been intimately associated with the prince from their position as leading members of her majesty's household" -- in other words if you wanted to get through to Queen Victoria and the royal family you had to go through him. Third person ANS 1p lettersheet 4 3/4" X 7¼" Buckingham Palace 1869 April 7. Near fine. Mounting traces on verso. Beautifully and boldly penned "Sir Thomas Biddulph is commanded to express the Princess Louise's regret that Her Royal Highness is unable to accede to the request preferred in Miss Lowe's letter of the 5th Inst." Princess Louise 1848-1939 was the fourth daughter and sixth child of Victoria and Albert. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31973
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HAUSWIRTH, Charles A (ca 1870s-?)
Typed Note Signed
Copper boom town Butte Montana notorious as a lawless town filled with bars and brothels began to turn around when this noted Butte merchant a progressive Republican was elected mayor in 1935 until 1941 and proclaimed in his inaugural address "It is doubtful if any city is in a more deplorable physical and financial condition" and set about to clean up the town. TNS 1p 8½" X 11" Butte MT 1940 August 2. Addressed to Samuel Tuzzo. Very good. On "City of Butte" letterhead noting "Office of Mayor" Hauswirth writes "It is with pleasure that I add my name to your list of signatures." He signs in full in bold green ink. Fun bit of unusual Old West history. unknown
Bookseller reference : 31968
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MASSEY, Raymond (1896-1983)
Inscribed Photograph Signed
One of the best and most popular interpreters of Abraham Lincoln on the screen "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" 1939 this Canadian-born American actor starred in many features from the 1930s through the 1960s. IPS 6¼" X 5" n.p. n.y. Fine. Neatly tipped to heavy card stock. Book photograph a matte finish black-and-white scene from the 1945 film "God Is My Co-Pilot" showing in uniform as Major General Claire L. Chennault with Dennis King as Colonel Robert Lee Scott Jr. and a group of American servicemen. In a light area near the bottom center he boldly signs and inscribes in black fineline: "To Terry Kocsett / with best wishes / Raymond Massey. unknown
Bookseller reference : 32429
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OWENS, John A (1823-86)
Signature and Inscribed Calling Card
One of the 19th century most influential theatrical managers was also one of its wealthiest a pioneering popular comic actor who debuted in Philadelphia in 1840 toured the country and was noted for the Yankee characters and other eccentrics he perfected. Superb signature and inscription on the verso of his printed "John E. Owens" calling card heavy stock 3½" X 1 3/4". Near fine. Faintly age toned. Handsomely and boldly penned in his fine tight script the actor writes: "Aigburth Vale / Baltimore County / M-d. / Edward B Cook Esq / Better late / than never Yours truly / John E. / Owens. / June 30 '73." Aigburth Vale was Owens' famed country home designed by architects Niermsee and Neilson in 1868 and "Better Late Than Never" was one of Owens' popular comedies. A great example on an appropriate item. unknown
Bookseller reference : 32493
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GRANGER, Stewart (1913-93)
Inscribed Photograph Signed
British leading man of the 1930s through '60s in films such as "King Solomon's Mines" 1950 and "Beau Brummell" 1954. IPS heavy stock 8" X 10" n.p. n.d. ca. 1980. Fine. Striking glossy closeup of a thoughtful middle-aged Granger chin resting on crossed arms boldly and curiously inscribed and signed across his forearm "For 10010 S. Green / Stewart Granger" in black fineline. unknown
Bookseller reference : 32557
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MacARTHUR, Jean (1898-2000)
Typed Note Signed
Devoted wife of the controversial general Douglas MacArthur who was at his side aboard a PT boat when he left the Philippines ahead of a Japanese siege; she often represented him at official functions; prominent New York socialite and philanthropist. TNS 1p 5¼" X 7" New York NY 1965 January 1. Addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Zerk. Very good. Slight age toning along top margin. On letterhead of the Waldorf Astoria where she lived for many years MacArthur thanks this noted Milwaukee inventor/engineer for a Christmas card and adds "best wishes for this New Year." With original envelope. unknown
Bookseller reference : 16055
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OPITZ, Rudolf (1910-2010)
Signed Color Print
This noted German test pilot immigrated to the U.S after World War Two and became a noted American test pilot. Signed color print 22" X 20" n.p. n.d. Near fine. Titled "Eagles in the Sky / Messerschmitt ME 163B-1A Komet" this print depicts an August 16 1944 dogfight over Leipzig Germany in which a stray B-17 encounters a squadron of Messerschmitts. Opitz boldly signs the lower blank margin in pencil numbering it #11 of an edition of 500 copies. This item has been simply and tastefully matted in grey and framed in a slim metal frame overall dimensions 27" X 24". unknown
Bookseller reference : 20845
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BULLARD, Robert Lee (1861-1947)
Inscription and Signature
This long-serving U.S. Army officer is most noted for commanding "The Big Red One" -- the 1st Infantry Division -- during the successful Battle of Cantigny in World War One; although in the Battle of Montfalcon his refusal to obey orders cost the 79th Division huge casualties. Attractive "Signature / Yours sincerely / Robert Lee Bullard / Lt. Gen. Rtd." penned on a buff heavy stock 5½" X 3¼" penny postcard n.p. postal cancellation Grand Central Annex NY n.y. postal cancellation 13 January 1934. Near fine. Address portion boldly addressed in Bullard's hand to Arnold F. Gates 1914-93 noted Lincoln and Civil War scholar. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41409
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BURROUGHS, Julian (1878-1954)
Autograph Note Signed
The son of famed naturalist John Burroughs was himself a noted writer landscape painter photographer and architect. ANS 1p buff heavy stock 5½" X 3" penny postcard West Park NY 1 January 1952. Addressed to Arnold F. Gates 1914-93 noted Lincoln and Civil War scholar. Near fine. Nice recap of his father's work reading in part: "There is just published an anthology of father's writings -- 'John Burroughs America' -- Devin-Adair Co -- I could recommend 'Riverby' 'Far & Near' or 'Camping & Tramping with Roosevelt.' Dr Clara Barrus wrote 'Whitman & Burroughs' -- also in her 'Life & Letters of John Burroughs' there is much about their friendship." Address portion also penned in Burroughs' hand. A handsome example with nice content. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41410
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BYNNER, Witter (1881-1968)
Typed Note Signed
This American poet published his first collection "An Ode to Harvard and Other Poems" in 1907 acting as editor at "McClure's Magazine" briefly and taking part in the famed Spectra literary hoax in 1916; in 1922 he relocated to Santa Fe and became a mainstay of the rich literary scene there publishing poetry collections until 1960. TNS 1p 6" X 7" Santa Fe NM 4 September 1941. Addressed to Arnold F. Gates 1914-93 noted Lincoln and Civil War scholar. Near fine. On his personal letterhead Bynner thanks an admirer for birthday greetings adding "Before leaving Mexico we out our house there in fairly good order so that I hope the next time I am there instead of being with carpenters masons and painters I shall be busy with a manuscript." Boldly signed in black ink. Accompanied by a delightful 7" X 9½" sepia-tone printed photograph a half-length right-facing portrait in bow tie and hat. Published in Volume 7 Number 4 of the literary magazine "The Mentor" 1919 with biographical text on verso. A superb pair. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41407
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GOMEZ, Vernon "Lefty" (1908-89)
Signature
This left-handed pitcher debuted with the New York Yankees in 1930 remaining there until 1942; among many career highlights he played in five World Series and seven All-Star games and in 1972 was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Bold signature in bright red fineline on a heavy stock 5" X 3" card at left naturally of which is tipped a 2¼" X 3" color glossy reproduction of a 1933 Gomez baseball card overall total dimensions thus 7" X 3". Undated but later life circa 1975. Fine. A fun presentation. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41528
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WHITNEY, Adeline DT (1824-1906) D T
Autograph Quotation Signed
American author of girls tales and poems whose first book was published in 1859 "Mother Goose for Grown Folks" and last book in 1900 "The Integreity of Christian Science". AQS 1p 7" X 9" n.p. n.y. Very good. Faint vertical show-through along leftmost 1" from mounting traces on verso with ¼" paper loss near upper left corner not affecting text. On lined paper running vertically strangely Whitney boldly pens her three-stanza poem "A Violet" first published in her 1872 poetry collection "Pansies" and signs in full at the conclusion. Opens with "God does not send us strange flowers every year. / When the spring winds blow o'er the pleasant places / The same dear things lift up the same fair faces. / The violet is here." An unusually lengthy example -- Whitney usually penned short sentiments only or single verse lines for admirers not full poems. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41550
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ENGLE, Paul (1908-91)
Typed Letter Signed
The quarter-century director of the University of Iowa's world-renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop was that state's best-known poet debuting with "Worn Earth" in 1932 and concluding a dozen volumes later with "Images of China" in 1980. TLS 1p 5½" X 8" Iowa City IA 4 December 1956. Addressed to Ralph G. Newman 1912-98 founder of Chicago's noted Abraham Lincoln Book Shop. Near fine. Friendly meaty single-space letter filled with memorable phrases. Of his schedule he remarks: "I have been off lecturing in St. Louis to 1500 teachers of English with the girls up to their accents in orchids the University of Minnesota with the blonde girls looking as if they wore sunlight on their heads instead of hair and a Catholic girl's school with the girls showing the exhilarating effects of a steady diet of prayer and prunes." On the possibility of visiting Newman in Chicago he mentions "taking a train to Houghton Michigan to lecture to the College of Mining there to rub the noses of the students of engineering in poetry while they rub my nose in the snow." He even works in creative writing as when he notes "It was fine to have you all in Iowa City and especially pleasant to feel that all of you were interested in this university's devotion to the creative act which is of course the beginning of all books." Signed simply "Paul" in blue ballpoint. A rambling delightful fascinating letter. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41560
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DALE, Sir Alfred William Winterslow (1855-1926)
Typed Letter Signed
This English educator and author served as principal of University College in Liverpool 1899-1903 and long-time vice-chancellor at the University of Liverpool 1903-19; in 1903 he revised and edited a history of English Congregationalism written by his father the noted Congregationalist church leader Robert William Dale. TLS 1p 7" X 9" Liverpool England 7 November 1908. Addressed to Reverend Oliver Huckel 1864-1940 American Congregationalist clergyman and author. Very good. Faint original folds; mounting traces on verso. On University of Liverpool letterhead Dale discusses some cryptic but clearly delicate issue regarding his and Huckel's mutual friend the noted Scottish theologian P.T. Forsyth 1848-1921. In part ".the Council and Educational Board of Mansfield College. came to no final decision so your judgment will still be in time to help us. I fully appreciate all that you say of Forsyth who is a close friend of mine and was a neighbour for many years; but we cannot run the risk of moving a man of his age to Oxford to begin new work under totally new conditions. He has never been a strong man physically." Boldly signed. Most interesting -- Forsyth had preached at Mansfield College in January 1908 but what the sensitive issue under discussion here is unclear. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41570
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ORLOFF, Nicolas (Nikolai Orlov) (1892-1964)
Autograph Letter Signed
This Russian pianist is best remembered for his Frederic Chopin interpretations and for giving the premiere performance of Alexander Glazunov's first piano concerto in 1912; he gave concert tours extensively beginning in the 1920s and eventually became a British citizen. ALS 2pp lettersheet 7" X 5¼" Paris France 16 December 1928. Addressed to Mrs. Neuer. Very good. Faint age toning and original folds none weakened. On "Hotel Majestic" letterhead Orloff pens a friend in his large spindly script and broken English. In part: "I was very touched indeed with your telegramm to Wigwam Hall. I was very interested to hear about Judson-Wolfsohn amalgamation! I come with Alan -- who helps me very good in my tour in all country!" Arthur Judson 1881-1975 was an influential music manager and head of what became Columbia Artists Management famed for combining a number of independent managers such as the Wolfsohn Music Bureau into his "Judson Empire." Interestingly George Gershwin composed "An American in Paris" at this same hotel in this same year. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41720
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BATES, Kinzie (1839-84)
Partly-Printed Document Signed
This son of the first white child born in Chicago daughter of pioneering fur trader John Kinzie served with the 1st Michigan Infantry in the Civil War later serving as a battalion commander at the frontier in 1869 in General Nelson Miles' "Yellowstone Campaign." Partly-Printed DS 1p 11" X 8¼" Standing Rock Dakota Territory 18 August 1876. Very good. Partly-printed "Receipt for Quartermaster's Stores" a secretarially-completed by Lieutenant William Badger form signed boldly by Bates as infantry captain at lower right. Notes receipt of two "Common Tents" two sets of "Common Tent Poles" and five sets of "Common Tent Pins" noting their condition as "Serviceable" and "New." Penned just four weeks after the Battle of Little Big Horn and from the military post where Sitting Bull would later be kept. Scarce and unusual. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41819
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DILLING, Margaret (1895-1983)
Signed Program
This renowned harpist who also owned one of the world's largest harp collections toured extensively for decades played for five U.S. presidents in the White House and taught Harpo Marx and other celebrities. Signed Program 8vo 5½" X 8½" 4pp n.p. n.y. Very good. Faint edgewear original light folds and faint mounting traces on middle third of rear wrapper. Interesting program printed in blue and red on buff stock for Dilling's appearance at the "Community Concert Association" listing an ambitious program that included Bach Mozart Faure Debussy Prokofieff and a half dozen others tiny inked notes beneath three of these. Dilling signs large and bold in pencil near the top. Inner page 2 contains Dilling's biography and "Annotations" pp. 3 and 4 for each composition played. unknown
Bookseller reference : 41820
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HUNDLEY, Elisha Estes (1800-79)
Document signed
In 1854 this thriving Virginia plantation owner and businessman became an early Chicago real estate mogul when he and partner James Rees built one of that city's first permanent structures the then-massive three-story Lakeview House Hotel on Lake Shore Drive to lure more investors into the area. DS 1p lettersheet 7½" X 9 3/4" n.p. 30 October 1845. Very good. Original folds visible but not weakened. Hundley and two others "being duly Sworn" have "seen and Examined the Estray Hog taken up by Jas. Marshall and. do appraise the said Estray Hog at the Sum of Two Dollars & fifty cents. The said Hog is a harrow white colour about two years old no brand marked with an under keel in the left and overkeel in the Right Ear. We were informed that when the said Hog appeared on the plantation about 12 months ago was a boar and that he has been altered since -- & that he has ranged on this plantation & in the neighbourhood for 12 months past." Neatl penned in deep blue ink and signed at the conclusion by Hundley and two others Charles Huthison George I. Roberts. Below this justice of the peace Roberts testifies and signs again then below this another figure partly legible but presumably county clerk testfies "Sworn to by G I Roberts before me." "Estray is simply legalese for a domesticated animal found lost or wandering and the purpose of this "Notice of Estray" may have been to authorize the sheriff to impound and sell the animnal to recover upkeep costs. Interesting and unusual. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42096
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FAULKNER, Georgene (1873-1958)
Autograph Note Signed
The Story Lady" was a famed American children's book author whose many works include "Old Russian Tales" 1913 "The Story Lady's Book" 1921 "Tales of Many Folk" 1926. "Story Lady's Christmas Stories" 1927 and many others; their popularity earned her regular storytelling programs on popular Chicago radio stations. ANS 2pp heavy stock linen 5½" X 3½" correspondence card Chicago IL n.y. likely March 1922. Addressed to George. Very good. Two tiny inoffensive mounting traces at left margin not affecting text. Bearing the green printed name/address of "The Faulkner School" a state-of-the-art school for girls founded by her sister in 1909 and where Georgene taught kindergarten Faulkner boldly pens in her large attractive script a note thanking a correspondent for "the honor of being one in your collection of autographs. I have done so little I do not merit having my name in any way in the 'Halls of Fame'." She also transmits not present "one also by McEvoy who does the 'Potters' -- He would give you one I am sure but you might like this also." Writer J.P. McEvoy was Faulkner's editor at P.F. Volland Company her Chicago publisher and the author of the 1922 hit play "The Potters." Faulkner's first editions are quite collectible and her autograph material seldom seen. This example was no doubt occasioned by the debut of her radio program "The Story Lady" on WGN radio. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42102
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BYNNER, Witter (1881-1968)
Autograph Note Signed
This American poet published his first collection "An Ode to Harvard and Other Poems" in 1907 acting as editor at "McClure's Magazine" briefly and taking part in the famed Spectra literary hoax in 1916; in 1922 he relocated to Santa Fe and became a mainstay of the rich literary scene there publishing poetry collections until 1960. ANS 1p 5¼" X 7 3/4" New York NY 1917 September 26. Addressed to Ms. Stearne. Good plus. Inoffensive mounting traces on verso cause tiny ¼" paper loss at upper right; several small paper losses along original vertical center fold not affecting text. On pale grey pictorial letterhead of Hotel St. Francis in San Francisco the poet pens a brief cryptic but cordial note in thick black ink: "A long while after and in a rattling hurry -- but with appreciative thanks and good wishes!" and signs nicely beneath. An attractive example despite noted flaws. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42106
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MacCRACKEN, Henry Noble (1880--1970)
Typed Note Signed
Vassar College's longest-serving president was its fifth 1915-46 an effective academic administrator who was also their first secular president and helped to found Sarah Lawrence College. TNS 1p 8½" X 5½" Poughkeepsie NY 8 January 1930. Addressed to John T. Owen. Very good. Lightly age toned with inoffensive staple hole at upper left not affecting text and small chip at upper right corner. "I shall be glad to have you use the photograph of me made by Pirie MacDonald in the booklet you are preparing and you are hereby granted permission to secure this from the photographer." Boldly signed in blue with his usual "H.N. MacCracken." The noted New York portrait photographer 1867-1942 -- known as "Photographer of Men" for he only photographed males -- shot anyone who was anyone in that area for decades and MacCracken sat for him in 1924. Owen was perhaps a publicity or marketing person working up a Vassar promotional brochure. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42172
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WILSON, Edward Foss (1905-89)
Typed Letter Signed
When Chicago meat packing magnate Thomas E. Wilson of Wilson & Company entered the sporting goods field on a lark in the 1920s little did he imagine that his son who became one of the youngest top executives in the country in 1934 when he stepped into the presidency at age 29 would transform both into influential giants in their fields; in 1953 Edward became chairman of the board and soon after left the business to become of all things Assistant Secretary of Health Education and Welfare under Eisenhower. TLS 1p 8½" X 11" Chicago IL 29 November 1937. Addressed to Lars Maurseth of the Museum of Science and Industry. Very good. Faint edgewear with inoffensive staple hole at upper left. A mimeographed form letter with date and recipient's name/address craftily typed in on letterhead of the Young Men's Christian Association reading in part: "The Boys' Work Committee of the Hyde Park YMCA is attempting to develop a policy and program in its work with older boys' groups and clubs based on community needs. we need information asked for on the enclosed questionnaire." Boldly signed in full by Wilson in blue fountain pen as "Chairman Boys' Work Committee." Interesting and unusual bit of YMCA history and Wilson & Company history. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42215
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SMITH, George Jay (1866-1938)
Autograph Letter Signed
This American writer had a hit with his 1922 play "Forbidden Fruit: A Comedy in One Act" and also authored such works as "A Synopsis of English and American Literature" 1890 "Whitman's Reading of Life" 1906 and other titles. ALS 2pp separate leaves 5" X 8" New York NY 26 April 1925. Addressed to Mr. Riley. Good plus. A bit age toned about the edges with paper clip stain at upper left; light staining and wrinkling at blank bottom of second leaf. Urges this unknown writer to "come to the Writers club dinner Tuesday evening at the Hotel Brevoort. We're expecting a good time and you will add to it if you will please come prepared to read two or three of your charming poems! Won't you do that" Boldly penned and signed in full. The "iley in question is not James Whitcomb who died in 1916. Interesting. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42173
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STODDARD, George D (1897-1981)
Typed Note Signed
This influential educator is best known for a controversial tenure as president of the University of Illinois 1946-53 but prior to that he was president of the University of the State of New York and later in life served as chancellor of New York University 1960-64 and Long Island University 1966-70. TNS 1p 7¼" X 10" Urbana IL 7 October 1950. Addressed to Ralph G. Newman 1912-98 founder of Chicago's noted Abraham Lincoln Book Shop. Very good. Declines invitation to attend "the dinner party honoring Allan Nevins on Friday evening October 13th. I wish I could accept for I am sure it will be a delightful occasion. Unhappily my schedule is such that I am not free to go to Chicago that evening." Boldly signed in full in black ink. The occasion for this party was likely the publication of Nevins' 2-volume "The Emergence of Lincoln" part of his larger 8-volume "Ordeal of the Union" series. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42256
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SAERCHINGER, Cesar (1884-1971)
Typed Letter Signed / Signed Pamphlet
This French-born American broadcast journalist pioneered transatlantic radio broadcasting while European director of Columbia Broadcasting System 1930-37 bringing to the airwaves figures ranging from Hitler and Mussolini to George Bernard Shaw and King George V; he hosted "The Story Behind the Headlines" 1938-48 for NBC and on the side was a serious musicologist penning a biography of composer Artur Schnabel. TLS 1p 6¼" X 9¼" New York NY 26 June 1939. Addressed to Arnold F. Gates 1914-93 future noted Lincoln/Civil War scholar. Near fine. On personal letterhead Saerchinger graciously pens an admirer: "You've let yourself in for something! Having written to me about my broadcasts you are irrevocably a 'fan'. Therefore you are politely requested to add your voice to those who want these talks to be resumed. The matter will be decided this week; so will you quickly vote 'yes' Just drop a note to the N.B.C. and tell'm what you think -- whether an objective treatment of world events against the background of history is worthwhile better than 'swing' or indispensable to to the intelligent citizen!" Boldly signed in blue ink. Apparently the fate of Saerchinger relatively new "The Story Behind the Headlines" show was uncertain -- but also apparently this write-in campaign succeeded for the show ran for another nine years. Accompanied by a booklet printing of one installment of the radio show in question the March 21 1939 Vol. 2 No. 23 issue of "Bulletin of the Story Behind the Headlines: The Death of Czecho-Slovakia" a 12mo 5" X 7" 22-page pamphlet published by Columbia University Press. Very good. Across the front wrapper he boldly pens "For Mr Arnold F. Gates / with the Compliments of / Cesar Saerchinger" in black ink. An interesting pair from this pivotal radio figure. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42258
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BANGS, John Kendrick (1862-1922)
Autograph Letter Signed
This American humorist and lecturer edited many of the country's most popular humor magazines such as "Puck" and later produced many plays and novels such as "A House-Boat on the Styx" 1895 "Coffee and Repartee" 1893 and "The Idiot" 1895. ALS 1p lettersheet 8" X 10" Yonkers NY 6 September 1897. Addressed to Miss Strong. Near fine. Faint original folds. On pale blue imprinted letterhead Bangs replies cordially and of course humorously to a request from an admirer. In part: ".I have been resting for a month from the arduous duties which devolve upon those who write autographs for a living. I am very glad indeed to begin my work for the seasons new opening by sending my note to you for your collection. I am a collector myself and am most sympathetic when I meet with other sufferers." Attractively penned in brown ink. A lovely charming example. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42486
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DUFF, John (?-1880) and DUFF, John R (1844-91)
Pair of Signatures
Duff senior was one of the builders of the Union Pacific Railroad and other railroad ventures such as the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad served as the UP's sixth president 1873-74 leaving an estate estimated at a whopping four million dollars; his eldest son John R. was likewise a railroad executive then became a successful Wall Street speculator before losing it all near the end of his life. Large and bold "Respectfully Yours / John Duff" in brown ink on an irregular-shaped 5½" X 1½" heavy stock slip n.p. n.y. Very good. Also a boldly penned "Yours very truly / John R. Duff" in brown ink on an irregular-shaped 4¼" X 1½" slip n.p. n.y. Very good. Mild age toning. A number of words in John's hand also visible on verso beneath heavy mounting traces. An interesting and most unusual father-son pair -- quite uncommon. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42529
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DENNETT, Tyler (1883-1949)
Typed Note Signed
This American historian and academic won the 1934 Pulitzer Prize for his "John Hay: From Poetry to Politics"; he also edited the 1939 "Lincoln and the Civil War in the Diaries and Letters of John Hay." TNS 1p 7¼" X 10½" Hague NY 23 June 1941. Addressed to Arnold F. Gates 1914-93 noted Lincoln and Civil War scholar. Near fine. "It is always a delight to hear from a perfect stranger" he writes "that something I have written has found appreciation." He also sends congratulations for something that Gates sent him -- he was publishing Lincoln essays in booklet form -- with "every good wish that you may continue in what is certainly one of the most satisfactory intellectual exercises." Boldly signed in black ink. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42556
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HOFFMAN, Edward (?-?)
Autograph Musical Quotation Signed
Little is known about this popular 19th century American composer and pianist except the names of some of his compositions which include "Night Before Petersburgh" 1867 "The Nation's Hero Grand March" 1868 "Love Among the Roses" 1870 "The Mocking Bird" 1872 "Lutheran Hymn" 1879 and "Polka de Concert" 1882. AMuQS 1p 6" X 4" City Hotel Providence R.I. 10 April 1872. Very good. Faint age toning at edges with couple of miniscule archivally-closed on verso edge tears. Hoffman handsomely pens in brown ink three measures of music identifying them above as "'Polka' / The Belles of Providence" and boldly signing below adding the date and place. Quite attractive. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42880
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TAK, Edward (1881-1943)
Signature / Autograph Musical Quotation
This famed Dutch violinist played for and served as concertmaster for a wide variety of American orchestras including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Large and bold signature in ink on a 3½" X 2½" slip neatly mounted to heavy stock card n.p. n.y. AMQ unsigned on a matching slip n.p. n.d. both bear pencilled 1904 date on verso. Both near fine. The unsigned Autograph Musical Quotation consists of two lines being several bars of music which he identifies below as "Beethoven Violin concerto." Tak played first violin with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra from 1903 to 1905 when he penned this excerpt from the Violin Concerto in D major which became one of Beethoven's best-known violin concertos. An attractive example. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42879
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FRY, Charles W (1838-82)
Signature
English musician known as "The first bandmaster of the Salvation Army" for in addition to composing hymns such as "The Lily of the Valley" his family brass band accompanied Salvation Army founder William Booth at evangelical events. Bold dark signature in brown ink on a 4 3/4" X 1½" lined slip below "Yours truly" penned in another hand n.p. n.y. Very good. Faint wear with mounting traces on verso. A nice example of this very uncommon signature. unknown
Bookseller reference : 42967
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YARDLEY, George (1928-2004)
Double Signature
The first NBA player to score 2000 points in one season was this forward/guard who played for the Detroit Pistons 1953-59 Syracuse Nationals 1959-60 and Los Angeles Jets 1961-62; in 1996 he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Large bold signature in blue fineline heavy stock 5" X 3" card n.p. 25 May 1974. Double signed actually: On the blank verso he inscribes and signs again: "Good luck & thanks for / asking / George." Fine. With original envelope. unknown
Bookseller reference : 38044
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