Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910), Russian writer of War and Peace and...

Hammer

£6,000

Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910), Russian writer of War and Peace and Anna Karenina - two autograph letters, written to the Tolstoyist and religious activist John C. Kenworthy of 45 Willow Road, Hampstead, London, the first dated 29th June 1900, two pages, 8vo, with original envelope postmarked in Russia on 19th January and Maldon, Essex on 21st January, addressed to 'My Dear Kenworthy' and concerning Kenworthy's notice in the press that he was authorised to publish Tolstoy's works, "For fear this should lead to misunderstanding or undesirable complications, I write at once to remind you of what I said at Terigano, namely that I had already handed over all business matters connected with the publication of my works to Vladamir Tchertkhoff and therefore, though I was very pleased that such a series of publications as you suggested should be brought out under your auspices, yet such authority as I felt myself able to give could only be given subject to Tchertkhoff's approval. It follows that as far as I am concerned you have no authority to act in this matter without the full consent of Tchertkhoff. I hope you will come to a complete understanding with him. I am repeating the contents of this letter to Tchertkhoff....", the second dated 17th January 1902, one page, 8vo, written from the Crimea, thanking Kenworthy for his correspondence, stating, " ....I never forgot and never will the gladness that I felt in knowing you and your work, and the joy that I get from my communion with you. I can not help saying that I am sorry for the importance that you attach to spiritualism. Your true and pure Christian faith and life are much more reliable than all that the spirits can say to you.". (2)

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*Condition: - 1900: Each of the pages is split into two parts, along the central horizontal fold. Some light spotting and time staining. First page with small split to bottom of vertical fold. The envelope is also split into two parts (front and back), has marginal tears and minor losses. One part of flap missing. - 1902: Folded - small split to centre of folds. Horizontal split to horizontal fold on (blank) second page. Very light occasional spotting. Ink smudged to left of centre.