Group of Autograph Letters

Three autograph letters relating to the British composer best known for his collaborations on more than a dozen classic comic operas with librettist W. S. Gilbert. The first letter (July 29, [n.y.], 1 p.) from Charlotte Knollys, lady-in-waiting to Princess Alexandra, is addressed to Sullivan and accepts a copy of "The Musical Season." The two other letters are addressed to the English music critic, singing teacher and Gilbert & Sullivan authority Herman Klein. One, from Sullivan's secretary Walter Smythe (May 28, 1889, 2 pp.), apologizes for Sullivan's delay in replying to Klein and promises that "Sir Arthur has put forward your request in the proper quarter & as soon as he gets a reply he will write to you." The other, from American-born soprano Lucile Hill (June 14, [18]89, 3 pp.), reports: "What do you think? Sir Arthur and Mr. Carte have sent for me to meet them tonight on very important business indeed, and I must give up the opera. It is most trying, but am sure you understand quite well the importance of the situation. Sir Arthur is so hard to get at." One letter with considerable soiling, otherwise overall in fine condition. Each on a bifolium, 4.5 x 7 inches (11.3 x 17.7 cm).

Lucile Hill sang in the early 1890's at the Royal English Opera House and the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company. She created the role of Dorothy Vernon in Haddon Hall in 1892–1893, and led an operatic and concert career until 1909. (15506)

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Autograph Letter

Opera

Classical Music

Theater

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