Author: Gilbert, William Schwenk.

Format: Autograph letter signed to G.H. Boughton in ink, on “8 Essex Villas, Kensington W.” letterhead, dated “15 May”, 2pp, one sheet folded, 18.3 x 11.5cm.

Text includes “My dear Boughton, I am very sorry I could not go to the dinner – but I am so terribly busy just now that it was not in me to get up from my work at 5 o’clock & dress. I ought, of course, to have written to explain this – but I forgot to do so, & that’s the truth…if you will kindly add the enclosed cheque for £2,2- to the fund, you will much oblige. Very truly from W.S. Gilbert. P.s. My wife sends her kindest regards to Mrs Boughton & so do I.”

W.S. Gilbert (1836–1911), English dramatist and one half of composer duo Gilbert & Sullivan, is writing to George Henry Boughton (1833–1905), English-American painter, and illustrator of literary works.

Old folds, minor foxing and discolouration.