COLLINS, William Wilkie (1824–1889). Autograph letter signed (“Wilkie Collins”) to his cousin Jane Ward, 12 January 1881. 3 pages, 8vo (180 x 114 mm), personal letterhead on a bifolium, creased, old mount residue to verso of final blank. COLLINS WRITES TO HIS COUSIN MENTIONING THAT HE IS BUSY FINISHING HIS NEXT NOVEL. “Four days since I ought to have thanked you for the charming token of remembrance and kindness. My only excuse is that I am smothered in the folds of ‘The Black Robe.’ In plain English, I am so hard at work on this concluding chapter story, that I am not even fit to write a letter when the day’s work is done. This is only an apology for a letter – but I delight in the lovely flowers – and I most sincerely thank you.” Signed by Collins with a warm sentiment on the integral leaf.