John Betjeman | Seven autograph letters signed, to Dawn Arlott, 1951-64

John Betjeman

Series of seven autograph letters signed, to Dawn Arlott

frequently flirtatious letters thanking her for her hospitality, exceptional cooking, and generosity as a host ("...And to think it was all prepared by your pale fingers & watched by those grey eyes & seen to boil or roast with that secret withdrawn smile of yours..."), in one letter agreeing to be godfather to "that little thing in the pram in the hall" (9 March 1951) with later letters discussing his godson and his spiritual development ("...he should be confirmed before inevitable religious doubt of adolescence sets in...", 13 February 1964), 16 pages, 8vo and 4to, 9 March 1951 to 13 February 1964; with: a pen and ink caricature sketch of Dawn Arlott by Betjeman emphasising her long eyelashes, with two other caricatures on the verso, some light nicks, fraying, and staining

"...You both have the great gift of turning an ordinary day into a Feast Day..." (9 October 1952)

A series of letters by Betjeman to Dawn Arlott (1917-1998), first wife of his friend John Arlott, referring frequently to the renowned hospitality of the couple. Betjeman agreed to be godfather to the couple's won Timothy on condition that they guaranteed he would be given religious instruction without his active involvement, and several of the letters refer to visits to see his growing godson. The last three letters date from after the Arlotts' divorce.

Condition Report:
Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate

Condition 11 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers (Online Only) is not applicable to this lot.