Captain Frederick Marryat
Autograph Letter Signed, to “Mrs. Jewry” re: Publisher Chapman & Hall
A warm and helpful letter from the famed naval captain and early Victorian novelist Captain Frederick Marryat (1792–1848), not dated but likely written during the 1840s after the publication of The Settlers in Canada or The Children of the New Forest. Addressed to “Mrs. Jewry,” Marryat refers her to his publisher Chapman & Hall, and shares advice on navigating the literary marketplace:
“I send you a prospectus of a new publication by Chapman & Hall, into which your work may find admission, but I think perhaps it would be better to send a letter…”
He explains he will be out of town in February searching for domestic help and concludes simply: “Yours faithfully, F. Marryat”
The recipient, “Mrs. Jewry,” is likely Laura Belinda Charlotte Jewry (1814–1899), later known as Laura Valentine, a writer and editor of children’s literature who worked extensively in publishing. Her father was a Royal Navy officer, providing a plausible social connection to Marryat. This letter may capture an early episode in her literary career. A fine association between two notable Victorian authors, with reference to one of the most influential publishers of the 19th century.
1 page, approx. 4.5" x 5.75." In very good condition, original mailing folds, light wrinkling, offsetting from other writing to the bottom left, minor glue residue from mounting to verso. Protected in an archival sleeve.
Some faint fold toning, adhesive stains on verso where previously mounted, else near fine.
