Rare Autograph and Manuscript Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/19/2015
Sir William Schwenck Gilbert(18 November 1836 – 29 May 1911) was an English dramatist, librettist, poet and illustrator best known for the fourteen comic operas (known as the Savoy operas) produced in collaboration with the composer Sir Arthur Sullivan. Lines from their works have become part of the English language, such as "short, sharp shock", "What, never? Well, hardly ever!",and "Let the punishment fit the crime".
ALS signed “W. S. Gilbert,” one page, 4.5 x 7.25, 8 Essex Villas Kensington letterhead, February 10, 1874. In fine condition, some toning and fold on back page. Gilbert writes to his agent about monies owed and his play“The Wicked World”. In full: "Dear Sir, As you have not thought fit to let me have an answer to my letter drawing your attention to your breach of agreement, I wish to inform you definitely of the course, I intend to pursue. I shall not place the “wicked world” in the hands of my agents as I had intended. You will perhaps be good enough to remit me such sums as according to your view of our agreement, I may be entitled to, and on my arrival in New York in the months of May, and June, I shall commence proceedings against you for such balance as may be due to me. I’m sorry that your discourtesy should have placed all further relations between us out of the question. From WS Gilbert"
W.S. Gilbert ( Gilbert & Sullivan)
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