R.M. Smythe & Co. to hold Internet auction of historical materials including autographs and more.. On October 1, 2007, R.M. Smythe & Co. will hold an Internet auction on eBay live of an eclectic collections of historical materials including autographs, photographs, ephemera, books and Americana.
known representing famous entertainers (1907-96). Two TLS, Bellifirm letterhead, San Francisco, Nov 6, 1969, about a Boy Scout project, writes “America, to me, means “due process of law”, not law and order or Mr. Edgar Hoover...I will sure as hell stand up, when necessary, for what I believe.”Good clear signature and in second letter, gives authorization to publish comments in the project, with an additional signed note.
150 BENNETT, MICHAEL ($50-Up)
American theatrical producer, choreographer, and dancer (1943-87). Writing on Jan 8, 1981, TLS “Michael,”1p, 4to, on company stationery, 1/8/1981. “would very much like to help the Downtown Theatre Museum...”One minor stain at extreme bottom, otherwise very good.
151 BENTON, THOMAS HART [2] ($75-Up)
One of the first US Senators from MO upon its admission to the Union (1782-1858); called “Old Bullion” for his support of hard money. AFF“Thomas H. Benton”on an undated envelope.
152 BERENSON, BERNARD [2] ($115-Up)
Lithuanian-born American art historian, critic and connoisseur (1865-1959); leading authority on Italian Renaissance painting. ALS “B. Berenson,” 1 page, 8vo, on Hotels St. James stationery, Paris, 6/17/1909. Berenson arranges to meet a friend and asks about the whereabouts of a mutual acquaintance. Also a large Signature“Bernhard Berenson / Jan. 1922,” on 1-1/2” x 5-1/2” sheet probably clipped from an album. The lower loop of the letter “B” of Bernhard is missing, otherwise dark and full, tape residue on verso. Both in very good condition. On verso of clipped signature “Wilhelm R. Valentiner 29th Jan 09”also an art historian and expert in Renaissance Italian and Dutch Old Master paintings.
153 BLOCH, ERNEST [2] ($200-Up)
Swiss-born American composer (1880-1959); first Music Director of the Cleveland Institute of Music; his work includes “Israel Symphony” and “America,” the first stereo recording of which was by Leopold Stokowski and the Symphony of the Air. ALS “Ernest Bloch”in French, 2p, 4to, Ticino, Switzerland, 8/31/1932.A letter of regret, refusing an invitation because “...my health is exceedingly bad...”A translation is present. Very good, uncommon.
154 BROOKS, PHILLIPS ($75-Up)
American clergyman (1835-93); descended from Joseph Cotton on his father’s side, and Samuel Phillips, Jr., founder of Phillips Academy, Andover, on his mother’s side. A four page ALS April 8, 1883, from Granada, Spainto a Mrs. Whitman about impressions of India and Spain, with further travel plans. Signed in full, and very good condition.
155 BROWNING, ROBERT [2] ($40-Up)
British poet and playwright (1812-898). A small envelope with postmark dated 1887 addressed in Browning’s hand to “Percy Marks”A second envelope addressed to him in London bears the signature of “Geo W. Curtis”Editor of Harper’s. Perfect for the young collector!
156 BYRD, RICHARD E. ($115-Up)
American polar explorer and aviator (1888-1957); first man to fly over the South Pole. TLS, “R.E. Byrd,”Antarctica, 1/15/1956, “This my seventh Polar expedition (fifth in the Antarctic).” Boldly signed; a fine display piece.
157 CABELL, JAMES BRANCH [2] ($15-Up)
Prolific American author, largely of fantasy fiction (1879-1958). TLS “James Branch Cabell,”1/4 p, 4to, on his engraved stationery, 4/15/1923. He thanks Mrs. Vernon for birthday wishes. With envelope.
