A.A. Milne references the bible, comparing bankers to Jacob's story

Single page ALS, signed in full signature "A.A. Milne," undated, but c. 1926, 5.5"x 7.5" on stationary with letterhead of 13, Mallord Street, Chelsea, S.W.3. Tel Kensington 2074. Expected center fold. Scattered very soft handling marks to outer edges. Near fine condition.

A warm humorous letter written to Vincent Seligman, a close family friend, and one of whom Milne would maintain close connections to for his entire life. The letter pokes fun at his fancy gift, but also references the bible and makes a comparison to Jacob's story. The letter is undated, however based on the stationary Milne used at the time it can determined to be circa 1926 - 1930. The letter in full:

"Dear Vincent

Having just lit my pipe with my watch, I take my pen in hand, and realize how much I owe to you (Annoying that my pen doesn't do any thing else. It might whistle or tell the north, you seem to have been rather careless about this)

Really I'm terribly thrilled with my watch lighter "('Yes', said the watch lighterman spitting thoughtfully -" Jacobs story). Thank you so much. I'll never say anything against bankers again. They are the backbone of the country, the bulwark of the constitution. Having looked at my watch, I find that it is time to light my pipe again and return pen to gold sheath. Good-bye. God be with you (and bankers generally, but less emphatically). Again I thank you. You are too kind. Yours ever A.A. Milne"

The letter was written to Vincent Seligman, who was a German Jew whose family emigrated to London and the United States in the 19th century.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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