Johnson, Samuel (1709-1784) Autograph letter signed. London, May 9, 1780
Scope and Content
This collection consists of letters and supporting documentation, books on the art of letter writing, a small miscellaneous grouping of catalogs and photographs, and issues of The Wolf Magazine of Letters from June-July 1979 to Summer Quarterly 1991. The earliest letter, from the Marquise de Sevigne, dates from 1695; while the most recent was signed by entertainer Mike Douglas in 1980. Most of the letters date from the 19th century. The collection, which now numbers 85 letters, will continue to grow; in conjunction with his gift, Mr. Lang established a gift annuity to be used for the maintenance and augmentation of the collection.
Dates
- Creation: May 9, 1780
Creator
- Johnson, Samuel (Author, Person)
Language of Materials
The records are in English
Restrictions on Access
There are no restrictions on access to this collection.
Extent
From the Collection: 1.26 linear feet
Condition
Good. Moderate staining and soiling, tape, pencil notations on back read "From the Warton Correspondence" [Thomas Warton]
1 page, 8"x 5" (12mo)
Transcription
Sir
I have your pardon to ask for an involuntary fault. In a parcel sent from Mr. Boswel I found the inclosed letter, which without looking on the direction I broke open, but finding that I did not understand it, soon saw it belonged to you. I am sorry for this appearance of a fault, but believe me, it is only the appearance. I did not read enough of the letter to know its purport. I am
Sir
Your most humble servant
Sam: Johnson
Bolt court Fleet Street. May 9 80
Repository Details
Part of the Kelvin Smith Library Special Collections Repository
Kelvin Smith Library
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland OH 44106-7151 United States
216.368.0189
kslspecialcollections@case.edu