Early Dickens letters of any length are eagerly sought for, and sell for nearly three times as much as those written between 1850 and his death. I am able to give illustrations of some exceptionally early Thackeray and Dickens letters, which came into the possession of Mr. George Gregory, of Bath, through whose hands the Autograph Album of the first Mrs. Sheridan recently passed. The earliest Dickens letter, of the fifteen autographs in my collection, was written when he was in his twenty-ninth year. It is interesting as containing a frank exposition of his political creed:—
Charles Dickens at Broadstairs to Frederick Dickens, Commissariat, Treasury, Whitehall.
Sunday September Twelfth 1841.
My dear Fred,—The wording of the Minute is certainly discouraging. If I saw any way of helping you by coming up to town, I would do so, immediately. But I cannot possibly apply to the Tories for anything. I daresay they would be glad enough if I would, but I cannot with any regard to honor, consistency, or truth, ask any favour of people whom politically, I despise and abhor. It would tie my hands, seal my lips, rob my pen of its honesty, and bind me neck and heels in discreditable fetters.
Is Archer in Town? If so, have you spoken to him? If not, when is he coming? You should speak to him certainly. I have told you before, that I am much afraid you have not treated him with that show of respect, which he has a right to claim. Why in the name of God should he have a personal dislike to you, but for some such reason as this?
If you think, and I see no objection to your asking Mr. Archer the question, that without doing anything improper, you might memorialise the Treasury, I will draw a memorial for you. If you have reason to think this would be unofficial and ill-advised, I know of nothing better than waiting and hoping.
I should be as sorry as you, if you were to lose this step. Let me hear from you by return
Affectionately always
C. D.
