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J.R.R. Tolkien's father, Arthur, writes to his mother, Mary Jane, to inform her of his sons birth the previous day.
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father from his and Mabel's home in South Africa to give an update on family life, especially news of a very "sharp" John R...
Mabel Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien's mother, writes to her husband's parents saying that John Ronald does not go outside in the daytime due to the heat. She ...
Mabel wrote this Christmas card to Arthur on Tolkien's behalf as he was just short of his second birthday.
Arthur Tolkien writing to his parents sends the delightful news of his second son, Hilary's birth. He talks at length of Mabel's recovery which he says ...
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father, John Benjamin Tolkien, informing him of life for his family in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He mentions the com...
In a letter to her brother, Roland Suffield, Mabel sends news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State with details of her two boys, Ronald and Hilary...
Arthur writes to his father giving news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He and Mabel had a gathering of friends for a musical evening. Some ...
This letter to Arthur Tolkien, father of Ronald and Hilary, was dictated by Tolkien's nurse. Mabel, Tolkien's mother, received a telegram that day that ...
May Incledon writes to Mabel Tolkien on the subject of her prayers. Her and Mabel (her sister), were converting to be members of the Catholic chruch and...
Mabel writes to her two son's grandmother on the Tolkien side (mother of her late husband) enclosing drawings by the boys. They have worked on them duri...
Mabel writes a letter to her mother-in-law saying that the boys look very well, especially compared to how they looked when they met her at the train st...
Tolkien writes a puzzling letter, for Father francis, written in rebus code. The letter is held at the Bodleian Library in Oxford.
Robert refers to his new step-mother as "Donna", the name he and his sister Molly have given to her when she married their father.
This undated letter from Tolkien to his wife Edith mentions their first kiss.
Tolkien writes to Edith on Easter Sunday, with permission from Father Francis, and includes a poem. From Chronology: "He encloses two devotional pamphle...
After his long letter of 26 March, Tolkien writes a shorter message and includes a poem, 'Morning'. Tolkien did not post the letter until April 1913, af...
Tolkien sends a Telegram to Edith informing her that he has won his Scholarship for £60 a year.
Edith replies to Tolkien's Telegram of the same day in which he informs her of his success in gaining a Scholarship.
Edith sends an unsigned, printed Christmas card to Tolkien. It will be one of the last times they communicate before he turns 21 when he will write aski...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on the news that Tolkien has become librarian at King's Edwards School. Wiseman will be sub-librarian and their friend Vincent...
Christopher Wiseman, Tolkien's childhood friend from King Edward's School (KES) writes to Tolkien thanking him for postcards sent to him from the Alps w...
Robert Gilson is very sad that Tolkien and a few others have left King Edward's School and he wonders if the T.C.B.S. will ever meet again.
Writing to Tolkien as Librarian of King Edward's School, Gilson points out that Tolkien has yet to return two books, one of which is the the first volum...
Christopher Wiseman writes to inform Tolkien that their friend and fellow T.C.B.S. member Vincent Trought has passed away after being ill.
Wiseman agrees to a T.C.B.S. meeting which will take place at Barrow's Stores. He suggests they meet on 22 March. He also suggests to Tolkien that he pl...
Rob Gilson writes to his stepmother about spending time with Estelle King, daughter of a family friend, whom he finds "above the average interesting."
Wiseman writing to Tolkien gives news of himself and Rob Gilson who are both studying at Cambridge university.
Gilson writes to his stepmother about news from his school, Trinity College in Cambridge. He says he has joined the Cambridge Eugenics Society.
The contents of this letter are unknown, but John Garth, in Tolkien and the Great War notes this letter as an example of the nicknames the TCBS used for...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien saying that he is envious that G.B. Smith had come to Oxford to study.
A letter from an Old Edwardian at Oxford. Giving news of various people with news of happenings in various activities. On Tolkien it is remarked that he...
Edith replies to Tolkiens letter of January 3rd telling him she is engaged to a George Field, the brother of a school friend. She had accepted this prop...
This letter from Tolkien was begun at midnight on his 21st birthday. He writes that his love for Edith remains and that he wants to marry her. He was no...
Tolkien replies to Edith's letter and they arrange to meet on 8 January. This letter, although not dated, was written shortly after Tolkien's letter at ...
Tolkien writes to Edith, making mention of the amount of kisses she will owe him for the work he does each week.
Tolkien, now reunited with Edith, writes that he will focus more on his studies.
Tolkien writes to Edith, saying he is very tempted to slacking off.
Writing to Edith, Tolkien says that she is a figure he is waiting for and says he would recognise her even in twilight.
Tolkien has marked his place on this postcard, showing where he sits for meals at Exeter College. He attended Holy Communion in the morning and is due t...
Wiseman sends a postcard to Tolkien. Hammond/Scull note that it will be forwarded to Phoenix Farm, Gedling four days later 25 March.
The contents of this letter are not known, but Garth notes this as one of the letters where Gilson refers to his friends with made up names (sobriquets)
Results from Honour Moderations had been published in the Times, 8 April Tolkien was listed in the Second Class. He wrote to Rob Gilson to inform him of...
Rob Gilson describes his trip with Frederick Scopes to sketch various churches in northern France around Easter the prior year in this letter and #TCGLe...
Rob Gilson describes his trip with Frederick Scopes to sketch various churches in northern France around Easter the prior year in this letter and #TCGLe...
Rob Gilson replies to Tolkiens April letter informing him of recent results ( Gilson says that he does not know whether to congratulate or commiserate w...
No details of this letter are currently known but G.B. Smith replies to it on 9 June to ask Tolkien about obtaining furniture, etc. for his rooms. He wa...
Tolkien writes a long letter to Rob Gilson some time before 10 June when Gilson replies. Noted in Chronology, he says he is enjoying the Oxford English ...
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien. Tolkien had injured his foot and Wiseman wishes him a fast recovery so that they can both take part in the King E...
Smith replies to a letter from Tolkien he received that morning. He asks Tolkien about buying furniture for his rooms when he arrives at Oxford for the ...
Tolkien replies to Gilson Tolkien saying he will be in Warwick until 28 June. Gilson had written asking if Tolkien will be attending some social dates i...
Gilson replying to Tolkien's long letter asks whether Tolkien could attend some dates, he asks if Tolkien can play tennis on 14 June, if he will be in B...
Gilson writes to Tolkien again asking if he can visit him on 14 June. He includes train times to Warwick from Marston Green. Hammond and Scull note in C...
Gilson writes that he had taken a copy of Milton's Paradise Lost to OTC camp, and met a like-minded friend who had brought a copy of Dante's Inferno.
It is assumed Tolkien wrote to Edith in the evening after meeting the Mexican boys that day who he will accompany to Paris. At Charing Cross he meets Mr...
Tolkien again writes to Edith, assumed to be upon his arrival in Paris. He mentions further his impression of the boys in his letter of the previous day.
Writing to Edith after a day trip to Brittany, Tolkien remarks on its tourist look of "dirty papers" and "bathing machines".
In late July, Tolkien is hired by a Mr. Killion to accompany two Mexican boys on a visit to Paris where their two aunts and brother would join them. Tol...
Writing from the Hôtel des Champs Elysées to Mr Killion, Tolkien recounts the problems following the death of Ángela. Julia, their other aunt has sai...
Writing again to Mr. Killion, Tolkien updates him on happenings in Paris. He and Ventura attended Mass and they dined with Madame Cervantes again.
Tolkien again writes to Mr Killion, convinced that the boys should not return to Mexico but continue their education at Stonyhurst.
Writing to Edith again Tolkien says he is certain that he will not be required to travle to Mexico to bring the Mexican boys back for school at Stonyhur...
Tolkien is concerned that the boys need entertainment and has bought various books cheap for them to read such as King Solomon's Mines.
Tolkien and the boys remained in Paris for another 7 days but no further details can currently be found regarding this letter.
Writing to Edith Tolkien tells her he and the boys will be leaving France the next day. They will arrive at Southampton and travel to Hampshire and stay...
Christopher Wiseman while visiting Grenoble in France writes to Tolkien asking him to visit Birmingham at the end of September and suggests a gathering ...
Hammond and Scull in Chronology note that a postcard from Gilson is forwarded to Warwick from Exeter College though no other details are known currently.
Upon his return to Oxford, Tolkien writes a letter to Edith who he had visited in Warwick before he visited Birmingham.
Christopher is envious that GB Smith has joined Tolkien at Oxford. Letter is tentatively dated based on context given by Garth in Tolkien and the Great ...
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien that Christopher Wiseman isn't happy, and his poor health is preventing him from playing rugby.
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien about Wiseman's troubles in Cambridge, remarking some members of the T.C.B.S have managed to help keep his spirits up with ...
Tolkien writes to Edith about registering as a reader at the Bodleian Library.
Writing to his step-mother, Rob Gilson mentions that G.B. Smith and T.K. Barnsley have agreed to play on Tolkien's team in the Rugby football match but ...
Tolkien writes to the editor of KESC after a request for information about life of the experiences of Old Edwardians at Oxford. Tolkien signed the lette...
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, remarking he misses the T.C.B.S members at Oxford (Smith and Tolkien).
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien informs his T.C.B.S. friends" of his engagement to Edith, though he does not give any details of...
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien informs his T.C.B.S. friends" of his engagement to Edith, though he does not give any details of...
Wiseman sends Tolkien a postcard congratulating him on his engagement, but is worried that this will pull Tolkien away from the T.C.B.S.
Emily Jane Suffield writes to Hilary on New Years Eve wishing him well for the coming year and thanks him for his gift and letter for Christmas. She als...
Gilson sincerely congratulates Tolkien on his engagement, but with mixed feelings due to Tolkien likely getting distracted from his friends.
Writing to Tolkien to offer his congratulations, Rob Gilson also asks Tolkien to attend a meeting of the T.C.B.S. next week. Tolkien would not attend th...
Writing to Edith, Tolkien remarks that the life they can look forward to will be made all the more joyful given they are both orphans.
Rob Gilson writes to his stepmother, Marianne Cary Gilson after a weekend in Oxford with Christopher Wiseman, T.K. Barnsley, G.B. Smith and Tolkien. A s...
Rob Gilson writes to his step-mother. He mentions members of the T.C.B.S. noting T.K. Barnsley, dominant in gathering with his wit and laconic expressio...
Further to his letter of 17 February, Gilson talks more on the members of the T.C.B.S.
Tolkien writes to Edith, complaining of his prospects of employment, as he sees them.
Garth describes a typical meeting of T.C.B.S. where Wiseman would make it "hilarious and carefree", evidently described by Gilson in this letter.
Writing to his step-mother, Rob Gilson tells her that Tolkien is "quite a great authority on etymology - an enthusiast".
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
Tolkien looks forward to seeing Edith in three days. Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Ora...
While staying in Northgate, Warwick at the 'White House', Tolkien writes to his aunt May Incledon. No other details are currently available.
While staying in Northgate, Warwick at the 'White House', Tolkien writes to a Mrs. Stafford in Oxford to say that he will be back for term time.
Gilson writes that Barnsley tried to persuade him to join the Old Edwardian recruits in the 'Birmingham Battalion'. He also says that his father (Robert...
Christopher Wiseman and Rob Gilson have gone to see the play Outcast, starring Gerald du Maurier.
Writing to Edith on the first day of Michaelmas Full Term, Tolkien describes the situation at Oxford. His college is empty and the Examinations School h...
Writing to Edith, Tolkien mentions that Oxford is a place of gloom.
Written during Tolkien's final undergraduate year at Oxford. Describes his studies and social interactions. Note on the dating of this letter: Humphrey ...
Tolkien mentions that "drill is a godsend". He has exercise 3 mornings a week before "getting to books" which he says suits him well. We wrongly atribut...
Writing to Wiseman Tolkien notes that the power of the T.C.B.S. can shake the world.
Gilson writes about a weekend visit by Smith to Cambridge, which Tolkien was invited to but unable to attend. Gilson was visited by Smith though, and th...
Robert writes that the rifles used for training had been taken away for deployed soldiers to use.
Tolkien writes to Wiseman about nationalism the evening before a debate at the Stapledon Society on this same topic.
Gilson writes about how heroic F. L. Lucas is, and that the military lectures he has attended have shown him the "fearful responsibility" of a officer f...
Wiseman asks Tolkien if he will be able to set aside a few days to join him in London during the Christmas vacation, noting that Gilson and Smith will b...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien, saying he fears the T.C.B.S. is drifting apart and does not have the same interests. They are now at Oxford and Cambridge and...
Writing to his friend, after reading parts of Wiseman's letter to G.B. Smith, Tolkien agrees that the group (T.C.B.S.) has drifted apart but that it is ...
Wiseman wrote, crossing with Tolkien's letter of the same day (#TCGLetter1110) to say that Rob Gilson was free and can attend a T.C.B.S. meeting on 12 D...
Writing to Edith, Tolkien describes his day. He had dinner with "a man called Earp" and attends a meeting of the Essay Club where he reads from his Voya...
Tolkien opens by saying he has to write after reading Edith's letter again. He describes various things he has been doing in the military, school and ch...
Gilson has enlisted, and fears missing the four person T.C.B.S Council meeting fast approaching. Gilson says that GB Smith has also enlisted on December...
Gilson has enlisted, and fears missing the four person T.C.B.S Council meeting fast approaching. Glison is now at his military camp at Cherry Hinton, ne...
Gilson writes that while he previously was certain that the war would end in six months, he now would not be at all surprised if it lasted ten years.
Rob Gilson asks Tolkien to attend a meeting of the T.C.B.S. in Cambridge on the weekend of 6-7 March. The previous TCBS Council was so good Gilson despe...
Following Gilson's letter of the previous day (#TCGLetter1200) Wiseman also writes to Tolkien asking his to attend the T.C.B.S. meeting. He says that G....
Tolkien writes saying he has set himself a specific day for replying to letters and evidently suggests a meeting of the group.
Rob writes about a training exercise involving a Witch-Doctor / wizard.
Their letters of 1 March and 2 March had gone unanswered so Wiseman and Gilson send Tolkien a telegram. They suggest, though not seriously, that if Tolk...
While at Magdalen College, G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien. Hammond and Scull note that Tolkien had sent Smith his poem on Eärendel, or the first part of ...
It is evident that Tolkien replied to Smith's letter requesting typewritten copies of his poems (see #TCGLetter1203) but this is not dated in Chronology.
Wiseman and Gilson had reread one of Tolkien's letters, he includes comments from Gilson. It appears that Tolkien had written saying he had asigned hims...
Further to Smith's earlier letter (#TCGLetter1203) and Tolkien's assumed reply with typewritten verse (#TCGLetter1206), Smith replies that he has receiv...
Tolkien sends a postcard to Christopher Wiseman in which he suggests some dates (11 or 17 April 1915) for a meeting of the T.C.B.S. The exact dating of ...
Gilson writes to Tolkien explaining that he cannot keep weekends open for T.C.B.S. meetings and that he needs to know at once which weekends work best f...
Writing to Tolkien, Smith mentions that he has shown Tolkien's verse to H.T. Wade-Gery who is friends with them both. Wade-Gery enjoys Tolkien's poems a...
Wiseman replies to Tolkien saying he doubts he will be able to attend either 11 or 17 April meetings of the T.C.B.S.. These dates were proposed by Tolki...
Smith responds to the poems that Tolkien had sent him. Smith likes poems in the classical form, and doesn't understand Tolkien's wayward romanticism. He...
Wiseman has now moved to Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham and writes to Tolkien proposing 18 April for a meeting of the T.C.B.S. and suggests Tolkien organises i...
Gilson writing to Tolkien confirms he has received his poems safely, but is yet to read them. He confirms a meeting of the T.C.B.S. for 18 April, mentio...
Gilson writes that he has received the poems that Tolkien has sent him. Gilson ends up sending them along to Christopher Wiseman in a few weeks without ...
G.B. Smiths writes that he is unwell and says that Tolkien's letters offer him consolation, especially Tolkien's mentions of Smith's Newdigate Prize ent...
Noted as existing by Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull, but they did not see the letter and no further information is currently known of its contents. I...
Hammond and Scull note that this letter repeats what Wiseman had said to Tolkien in his letter of 30 March. *The dating of this letter is noted as from ...
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien sent a postcard to Wiseman but that they have not seen it. We have no further information at pres...
Noted by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, Tolkien writes to Wiseman, and possibly relays news on G.B. Smith. Wiseman will reply on the same day say...
Replying to Tolkien's letter which arrived earlier on this day Wiseman replies saying he has notified G.B. Smith to request leave for next weeks T.C.B.S...
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien, informing him that he is on sick leave and will not be able to attend the next T.C.B.S. meeting (18 April). He also mentio...
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien sends Wiseman a telegram before he receives a letter from G.B. Smith (#TCGLetter1220) and that Wi...
Wiseman sends a telegram to Tolkien asking what arrangements he has made for their 'council' (T.C.B.S. meeting) in Oxford as there is a problem which ha...
Wiseman had sent Tolkien a telegram earlier in the day asking for details of the arrangements he had made for the next T.C.B.S. gathering (#TCGletter122...
Rob Gilson is recovering at home in Marston Green on sick leave. He writes to Tolkien to say he will not be attending the 'Council of Oxford' (T.C.B.S. ...
Wiseman informs Tolkien that the 'Council of Oxford' is off. He also notes he has received Tolkien's poems, sent on to him from Rob Gilson. He is workin...
Tolkien replies to Wiseman's letter from the previous day saying that he cannot join him and his family at the weekend.
Tolkien and the Great War notes these three letters as the source for Gilson declaring his love for Estelle King.
G.B. Smith replies to Tolkien that he is joining the 8th batallion and hopes to get Tolkien a place but he is not certain. He believes that Tolkien shou...
Wiseman gives Tolkien some feedback on his poetry. He and Gilson had been discussing it and Smith had said previously that he was impressed with it. Wis...
Writing to Tolkien, G.B. Smith confirms he is now with the 19th Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers. They are stationed at the grand Hotel, Penmeanmaw...
Writing to Tolkien, G.B. Smith says he has been reading the book (a Welsh grammar) Tolkien sent after Smith requested it in his letter of 14 May (#TCGLe...
Tolkien informs Edith that his friend, W.E. Hall has been killed in service. He says that Hall is the first of his friends to die, but he knows that soo...
Tolkien had asked G.B. Smith about being posted with Smith to his regiment and Smith replies saying that he should contact Colonel Stainforth of the 19t...
Replying to a letter from Tolkien (at this time I have no date for that letter but it is almost certainly to congratulate Tolkien that both of them had ...
Robert has moved to Lindrick Camp.
Smith writes to Tolkien offering him advice on the equipment he will need for camp. A large portion of the letter is available to read in The J.R.R. Tol...
Smith makes mention of the volume of Georgian Poetry he had asked Tolkien to send him.
Smith informs Tolkien that Colonel Stainforth has offered him a place, he asks Tolkien to write to the Colonel. He again says he will try to get Tolkien...
While he is in Warwick Tolkien writes to Rob Gilson. No further details of this letter are known. Rob Gilson will not reply until September.
G.B. Smith sends his congratulations to Tolkien while he is in Warwick for ‘one of the highest distinctions an Englishman can obtain’.
The day after Tolkien's exam result (First Class Honours) was published in The Times, Smith sends a congratulatory note to Tolkien. He also (again) tell...
G.B. Smith writing to Tolkien while he was visiting his Aunt Mabel at Abbotsford, Moseley, Birmingham suggesting, again, that he ask Stainforth what he ...
Tolkien writes to G. B. Smith informing him of his news from the War Office in a letter, see #TCGLetter1268. He will also write to Christopher Wiseman g...
Tolkien writes to Christopher Wiseman giving him the news of his army appointment (see #TCGLetter1268) and also mentions he will be visiting Moselye and...
The War Office writes to Tolkien c/ o Father Francis Morgan at the Birmingham Oratory. This letter is signed by King George and Col. W. Elliot. He has b...
G.B. Smith wrote to Tolkien on or around 10 July 1915, he suggests the notice Tolkien would receive from the War Office would be the ‘gazetting’. To...
Christopher Wiseman writing to Tolkien, says that in June he had seen a notice that the Royal Navy wants mathematicians as instructors, and is now await...
Tolkien writes that he has been "gazetted". See #TCGLetter1273
There is some question whether Tolkien sent this letter, Hammond and Scull say that "Tolkien drafts and probably sends a letter from Abbotsford to a Mr ...
Smith writes to Tolkien while he is at Abbotsford, Moseley, Birmingham (which will be forwarded to him at the Incledons, Barnt Green, on 15 July). He ad...
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien while he is staying with his mother in Bromsgrove. He says he and Tolkien must spend some time together and his mo...
Smith had not heard from Tolkien so he writes to cheer him up. He thinks Tolkien will be safer in the 13th rather than the 19th with him.
While Tolkien is at Bedford for Army training R.W. Reynolds writes to him commenting on the poems Tolkien sent him. Among them were 'You & Me and the Co...
Smith feel "philosophick" about Tolkien's appointment to the 13th Lancashire Fusiliers, though he would like Tolkien to be able to transfer to Smith's u...
Likely in reply to a letter from Tolkien (currently unknown), Smith says that Tolkien can still try to be transferred once his training is completed. He...
Christopher Wiseman replies to a postcard from Tolkien (date currently unknown) and suggests he and Edith join him in London at their family home in Aug...
Reynolds writes to thank Tolkien who has sent him another poem. Tolkien in a letter (unknown) had asked for advice on publishing a book of poems. He sug...
In this letter (along with #TCGLetter2349) Gilson writes about T. K. Barnsley becoming a professional soldier as part of the Coldstream Guards.
Smith, Wade-Gery and others from Oxford joined together to be officers in the Lancashire Fusiliers.
Robert's stepmother reports that she has heard from Dickie Reynolds about Oxford Poetry. Sidney Barrowclough, with the Royal Field Artillery, has set sa...
Rob Gilson while at the 3rd Durham Temporary Hospital, Sunderland writes to Tolkien. It is forwarded from Exeter College to Whittington heath. He mentio...
Edith writes to Tolkien saying that 'A Song of Aryador' is her favourite poem. She wonders how h can write at camp.
Writing from the 3rd Durham Temporary Hospital in Sunderland, Gilson tells Tolkien that he has received a lot of mail from the T.C.B.S. members in the p...
R.W. Reynolds writes to Tolkien while he is at at Whittington Heath and thanks him for sending on some of his poems. He likes them, but also he offers s...
Gilson writing from Marston Green to Tolkien at Whittington Heath says he has sent telegrams to Christopher Wiseman and G.B. Smith to ask them to come t...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien to say that all four members of the T.C.B.S. can be in Lichfield, now described as the 'Council of Lichfield', on 25 September...
Gilson writes again to Tolkien about the Council of Lichfield
Gilson sends a telegram to Tolkien to say that he and Smith will arrive at 10.34am into Lichfield and will be at the George Hotel which will be their ba...
Smith and Gilson write to Tolkien on their arrival at the George Hotel saying they hope to see him there when they return after a short sightseeing outi...
Gilson is now stationed at No. 2 Camo, Sutton Veny with his battalion and writes to Tolkien saying that he and G.B. Smith believe that he should send hi...
Gilson writes home. He was returned to his battalion on Salisbury Plain. He has spent a weekend with G.B. Smith where they went to Salisbury and then th...
Smith who is visiting Bath with Rob Gilson to make plans for their 'Council of Bath' writes to Tolkien on the matter and proposes 23 October as a possib...
Further to #TCGLetter1290, Smith writes to Tolkien saying he believes Tolkien should write to Hodder and Stoughton or Sidgwick & Jackson. He asks Tolkie...
Smith and Gilson visit Bath in preparation for the T.C.B.S. Council that is planned to be held there soon.
Smith who is currently at No. 6 Camp, Codford St. Mary writes asking Tolkien to confirm as soon as possible if he will attend the 'Council of Bath' meet...
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien from No. 3 Camp, Sutton veny while Tolkien is at Brocton Camp, Staffordshire that he is likely to be sent ot he front soon....
Smith writes to Tolkien while he at the Wiseman' house in London after hearing that Tolkien unfortunately cannot attend the next council. Edith has been...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien to give him updates on the previous weekends events with the T.C.B.S. He remarks on Trought's paper on the Romantics, noting t...
Gilson was the last of the T.C.B.S. to write to Tolkien with his report of the gathering the previous weekend. He was very sorry that Tolkien could not ...
In this letter (along with #TCGLetter2348 ) Gilson writes about T. K. Barnsley becoming a professional soldier as part of the Coldstream Guards.
Robert describes to his stepmother a frosty week that Tolkien and Edith spent in Warwick. The 'Salford Pals are due to depart Salisbury Plain along with...
Rob Gilson writes saying that he had last heard from Tolkien was the letter shown him by G.B. Smith in London and he hopes that both he and Edith were f...
Robert describes to his stepmother a frosty week that Tolkien and Edith spent in Warwick.
Tolkien writes to Edith. No information is known currently of its contents.
Written while Tolkien was training as part of the Lancashire Fusiliers. He is working on his poem 'Kotirion among the Trees' and mentions sending it to ...
Estelle King's father writes to Gilson, warning him that his marriage proposal to Estelle is not appropriate, as he is too low-class and there is a war ...
G.B. Smith, who is in the trenches in France, writes to Tolkien asking for the long letter Tolkien promised in his last postcard to Smith.
Gilson mention's Tolkien's poem 'Kortirion' in this letter to his love interest.
G.B. Smith writing to Tolkien, thanks him for various letters and commenting on Oxford Poetry 1915 and 'Goblin Feet'. Smith and Wade-Gery agree that the...
Rob Gilson replies to Tolkien's letter about some problems Tolkien is having. Gilson remarks on ‘the extra blackness of your fate in these dark days�...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp. He has been posted to the HMS Superb. He has received 'Kortirion among the Trees' from Gilson (#TCGLetter1302...
Rob Gilson writes informing Tolkien that he will be leaving for the front on 8 January.
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien while he is at Brocton Camp praising him for his poem 'Kortirion among the Trees' saying that "it is a great and a noble po...
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith thanking her for her letter and parcel. He gives an update on matters in France and the hopelessness of the war. He remar...
Writing to Tolkien, Dora Owen, who has read 'Goblin Feet' in Oxford Poetry 1915, asks Tolkien if she may include it in a collection of fairy poetry she ...
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull in their entry for 19 January 1916 (#TCGLetter1308), note that Tolkien replied to Dora Owen with several poems include...
Tolkien writes to Rob Gilson informing him that he and Edith's have set a date to marry, it will be on 22 March in Warwick.
Tolkien writes to Smith with news of his and Edith's wedding day which will take place on 22 March in Warwick. He also notes that he has sent his book o...
Dora Owens replies to Tolkien's letter thanking him for sending her several poems. Among them are 'The Trumpets of Faerie', 'The Princess Nî', 'A Song ...
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, thanking him for the letter he wrote to him. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien probably...
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, praising his poem 'Kortirion among the Trees', which the original of is enclosed. Wiseman that "of course" Edith ...
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, he talks about what friendship with the other T.C.B.S. means to him. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull not...
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith with news of his time in France during WWI. He says that his party have returned from the front lines are on training and...
Tolkien writes to Edith, commenting that he wants to return England to Roman Catholicism.
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, suggesting that he sends 'Kortirion among the Trees' to a publisher. He has mentioned the poem to R.W. Rey...
Writing to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, Christopher Wiseman defends an opinion he made on 'Kortirion among the Trees'. He says that Tolkien is interested in...
Christopher Wiseman had written to Tolkien on 1 March 1916, saying that Tolkien liked "little, delicate, beautiful creations" but he was "more thrilled ...
A short extract where Tolkien mentions his "nonsense fairy language", referring to it as "such a mad hobby!" Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note t...
G.B. Smith sends Tolkien a part of his poem 'The Burial of Sophocles'.
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on the subject of his (Tolkien's) writing. He notes that he is happy that he has (apparently) set Tolkien off on work on his "...
G.B. Smith sends Tolkien the second part of his long poem 'The Burial of Sophocles' after he sent a portion earlier that month. He asked that Tolkien po...
Tolkien writes to Father Francis Morgan giving him the news that he and Edith will marry on 22 March in Warwick. He had not mentioned this fact when he ...
Father Francis replies to Tolkien's letter congratulating him and Edith of their upcoming wedding. He says he should like to do the ceremony himself at ...
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, offering his best wishes, prayers, and blessings for his and Edith's impending marriage.
Reynolds writes, thanking Tolkien for sending him a copy of 'Kortirion among the Trees'. He likes it very much and would like Tolkien to send him more o...
Gilson describes Tolkien's authority on etymology, and writes about Tolkien finishing school in Oxford before joining the Army. He mentions how "despera...
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp. He says it is a long time since he has heard from Tolkien. He also mentions, but cannot yet comment on a l...
Tolkien's brother Hilary writes to him with news from his own part of the war effort in France. He mentions that in the England they have had terrible w...
Christopher writes Tolkien a long letter, said by Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull to be a "long letter written in stages" from 14, 17, 26 March and 16...
Hilary writes to Edith. It has been some time since his last letter and Edith has now moved from Warwickshire and he does not know her new address. He h...
Tolkien writes to the Adjutant of the 13th Battalion requesting leave for 13 to 17 May after he has completed his signalling course. His address if his ...
Following Tolkien's request for leave, requested on 8 May (#TCGLetter1328), they say that leave is not being granted at present, but then the order is s...
While at Brocton Camp, Tolkien receives a telegram from Smith who is at West Bromwich and on leave until 29 May. He wonders if they could meet.
Smith, in another telegram says that he will come to Great Haywood for Saturday afternoon and stay the night.
Smith sends Tolkien another telegram care of Edith's landlady, Mrs. Kendrick, to inform him of his time of arrival via train.
Smith writes to thank Tolkien for hosting him, describing it as a "splendid two days". This letter is held at the 'Tolkien Papers, Bodleian Library, Oxf...
Tolkien is informed by telegram that he is to join the British Expeditionary Force in France. He must first report to the Embarkation Staff Officer at F...
Smith writes to Tolkien on his return to France, "attached 11th Lancashire Fusiliers, 25th I.B.D., 25 A.P.O. (S) 17, B.E.F." to say that he is sorry Tol...
Tolkien wrote to Christopher Gilson. No further information is known currently but Gilson replies on 22 June that he is cheered to hear from the T.C.B.S...
Upon his return from a night working party, Gilson replies to Tolkien's letter noting that he is cheered to hear from the T.C.B.S. This is the last lett...
G.B. Smith writes, wishing Tokien well "in all that may happen to you within the next few months, and may we live beyond them to a better time". This le...
Smith sends Tolkien a 'field postcard' noting that he is "quite well".
Smith writes to Tolkien, he has seen the newspaper and Rob Gilson is named among the dead. He had died on 1 July but had originally been named among the...
Cary Gilson, Rob Gilson's father, writes to Tolkien and likely includes a memorial card for Rob who had been killed at the Battle of The Somme in early ...
Smith writes to Tolkien offering praise for his poem, 'The Lonely Isle'.
Tolkien writes to G.B. Smith. Little is currently know of this letter and it is dated via the remarks of Hammond/Scull.
Smith writes to Tolkien, and likely includes a letter from Christopher Wiseman on the news of Rob Gilson's death. Smith has underlined parts and Tolkien...
Smith thanks Tolkien for his letter, he thinks that "there are still a great many sober men and true..." This letter is among the 'Tolkien Papers, Bodle...
Tolkien has learned about the death of his close friend Rob Gilson - one of the four members of the TCBS and writes a long letter about how he feels the...
Robert Cary Gilson, Head Master of King Edward’s School and father of Rob Gilson, replies to Tolkien's letter of sympathy sent on the death of his son...
Smith writes to Tolkien having not received Tolkien's letter of 12-13 August . he has been unable to sleep for thinking about Rob. He remarks that maybe...
Smith having received Tolkien's letter of 12-13 August replies disagreeing with Tolkien's notion that the T.C.B.S. has ended with Gilson's death. He als...
Mrs. Weatherhead, the mother of a soldier killed in action during WW1 writes to Tolkien to ask if he has any news about her sons death.
Wiseman writes to G.B. Smith saying that he has been reading correspondence between the group from 1914. He describes it as his "TCBSian" archive. He wi...
Tolkien writes to Smith, apparently letting off steam about friction with other people. It is assumed that he is talking about Christopher Wiseman.
Further to his letter of 30 August Wiseman continues his commentary on the correspondence of the T.C.B.S. and his belief that the group has changed.
G.B. Smith writes asking Tolkien to send him a field postcard. He notes that he has not heard from Christopher Wiseman but has had a letter from R.W. Re...
Hilary, writing to his brother gives news of his time near the front lines. They are resting currently. He had heard from Edith a few days ago. He has b...
Smith writes to Tolkien, he encloses a letter from Christopher Wiseman. Wiseman had sent to Smith, the letters written by him and Tolkien during the win...
Smith writes to Tolkien pointing out that he has not heard from him in quite some time.
Tolkien writes to Commanding Officer offering his regret at suffering from trench fever. He hopes to return to the same Batallion when he is well enough.
Tolkien writes to Mrs. Smith, G.B. Smith's mother. She replies, thanking him and says she will forward the letter to her son.
Captain E. Munday, Adjutant of the 11th Lancashire Fusiliers, writes to Tolkien, in reply to his letter to Lieutenant-Colonel Bird. He says that while i...
This letter, sent to Tolkien with a letter dated 8 November was to be passed to the War Office after Tolkien was determined fit for a return to service....
G.B. Smith's mother replies to Tolkien's letter giving her news. She will pass this letter on to her son.
Smith replies to Tolkien's earlier letter. He is relieved to hear that Tolkien is "still alive". Tolkien is at this time recovering at 3 South General H...
Wiseman who is currently serving on HMS Superb replies to Tolkien's letter, he wishes he could visit but leave for Naval personel is strictly limited an...
In a follow-up to his letter of 16 November, Smith notes that had forgotten to say that his mother would be very happy to source any books which Tolkien...
The 3rd (Reserve) Battalion writes to South General Hospital in Edgbaston, directing that orders should be issued for Tolkien's next movements at the ea...
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on politics, and the war. Thanking Tolkien for his letter and more of his poems. He says that R.W. Reynolds thinks that Tolkie...
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, G.B. Smith has died. Smith was injured by shrapnel on 29 November. He wrote to his mother saying that his wounds ...
After reading the news from Christopher Wiseman that their friend G.B. Smith has died, Tolkien immediately writes to Smith's mother to offer his condole...
G.B. Smith's mother writes to Tolkien giving some details of Geoffrey's final days. She asks Tolkien if he could send to her copies of her son's poems a...
Tolkien writes to R.W. Reynolds. From Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull's entry for '28 December 1916', Tolkien must have discussed G.B. Smith, and h...
Tolkien replies to G.B. Smiths mother enclosing copies of G.B. Smith's verse.
G.B. Smith's mother replies to Tolkien thanking him for the poems of her son's. She tells Tolkien to keep the originals.
Reynolds replies to Tolkien's letter, he notes that he has had a letter from Smith's mother too in which she says her son had wished for his poetry to b...
Tolkien advises the war department of his address and presents himself for further orders.
Wiseman apologizes for his not writing sooner, he says that he had been trying, and this was the fifth attempt. He remarks that he is happy that Tolkien...
G.B. Smith's mother writes to Tolkien thanking him, and Reynolds for their help in the matter of her son's poetry. Tolkien is currently staying at his A...
Only noted by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull in their entry for '4 and 9 March 1917', Tolkien had replied to Wiseman's letter suggesting that he m...
Tolkien writes to the War Office from Great Haywood where he is currently residing to inform them of this change of address. On 23 January he was examin...
Tolkien has learned of the death of G.B. Smith's brother and writes to their mother, assumed to be his offering of sympathy. Smith's brother died on 25 ...
Tolkien writes to Wiseman saying that Edith is now with him at Harrogate.
Wiseman writes to Tolkien in reply to an earlier letter from Tolkien, in which Tolkien had replied about the "epic" Wiseman suggests he start on. Wisema...
Smith’s mother replies to Tolkien's letter of sympathy to thank him.
Christopher Wiseman sends a telegram to Tolkien to say that will visit him on 18 April.
Tolkien replies to Wiseman to say he has to report for military duty on 19 April.
Wiseman writes a follow-up letter to his telegram , he is on leave and will visit Tolkien and Edith on 18 April. Tolkien had replied with a telegram say...
Writing to Tolkien, Wiseman returns the manuscripts of G.B. Smith's verse noting that does not think the book should be "Opera Omnia", suggesting it sho...
Christopher Wiseman returns G.B. Smith's poems to Tolkien and notes a suggested order for them. He again suggests that only the best of his verse be inc...
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at Thirtle Bridge Camp, Withernsea. No details are known currently.
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at "R.E. Signal Depot, Dunstable, Bedfordshire". No details are known currently.
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at "R.E. Signal Depot, Dunstable, Bedfordshire", redirected to Thirtle Bridge Camp, Withernsea. No detail...
Tolkien had written to Wiseman after hearing of the death of his mother. Wiseman congratulates Tolkien on the news that he and Edith are expecting a chi...
Hilary writes to Tolkien giving updates on his current circumstances. He asks him to send his wishes to Edith. He will write to her, but not for a few d...
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Mary Incledon had written to Tolkien in response to either a conversation or a letter between her sister ...
At an unknown date, no earlier than 16 November, 1917, Tolkien writes to Wiseman informing him of the birth of his son John Francis Reuel. He also asks ...
Edith had given birth to their first child, John, on 16 November but she had a difficult time. Tolkien could get leave for a few days and Aunt May write...
Reynolds writes to Tolkien offering congratulations on the birth of his and Edith's first child. He thanks Tolkien for a parcel, and for including his p...
Tolkien had written a letter, or talked with Marjorie Incledon about the art critic John Ruskin in connection with his Ishness paintings. Mary Incledon ...
Replying to Tolkien's letter on the birth of his son, Christopher Wiseman replies offering his congratulations. He insists that he is regarded as an unc...
From 25 July, Edith writes to Tolkien from 1 Blenheim, Parade, Pittsville. No details are known of how many letters but we can be fairly certain that sh...
Tolkien had been authorized by the War Office to take up sedentary employment. Either he or they apply to the Ministry of Labour in this matter.
Further to #TCGLetter1600, 'The Ministry of Labour, Appointments Department, Officers’ University and Technical Classes (OUTC), Professional and Busin...
Per his medical examine at the King’s Lancashire Military Convalescent Hospital, Blackpool, Tolkien writes to the OUTC.
Tolkien writes to Wiseman while he is at sea and the letter takes seven weeks to reach him. No details are known of the letter. Wiseman replies on 16 De...
Wiseman is on leave in London and has received a letter that Tolkien had sent to him more than seven weeks earlier. He has been informed that Tolkien is...
Wiseman apologizes that he was unable to visit Tolkien in Oxford but he has now to return to HMS Monarch afterwhich he will take up his teaching post at...
On 7 July, Tolkien was examined at the Medical Board and was declared unfit for general service but was fit for 'home service'. He is ordered "to return...
Tolkien is informed by the Ministry of Pensions that he has been awarded a pension of £35 a year, for the period 16 July to 6 December 1919. An enclose...
Tolkien had informed the Ministry that he was still suffering from disability and they write to direct him into a hostel (or colony) for treatment. They...
A two page letter sent from 1 Alfred Street, St. Giles, Oxford, 17 March 1920, to Miss Duncan, enclosing a "mixed bag" of 50 possible examination questi...
Henry Bradley writes a letter of recomendation to Leeds University where Tolkien has applied for the position of Reader of English Language. Bradley had...
Writing to R.W. Chapman, George S. Gordon, Tolkien's co-editor on the Clarendon Chaucer project for Oxford University Press says that his staffing is mu...
George S. Gordon writes to his wife from Magdalen College, Oxford. He saw Tolkien and will dine with him on Tuesday 27, July.
Tolkien took up his position at Leeds in June 1920 but within months had applied for two positions elsewhere. The first of these was at the University o...
Tolkien took up his position at Leeds in June 1920 but within months had applied for two positions elsewhere. The first of these was at the University o...
This letter, the first of Tolkien's series of Father Christmas Letters written for his children, was dated 22 December 1920. It is addressed to John but...
John Johnson of the Oxford University Press writes to the historian Henry David on the matter of the proposed Middle English series of texts. He notes t...
Tolkien and Johnson had met on 12 February when Tolkien handed over material for A Middle English Vocabulary. Tolkien had forgotten to include a revised...
C.T. Onions writes to Tolkien to say that he will hopefully see him and Edith on 19 August in Oxford. They will be there to conclude business on their m...
George S. Gordon tells D. Nichol Smith that he is overwhelmed at the Honours School, now numbering some 120 students. A committee has now been appointed...
Tolkien had suggested E.V. Gordon for a position who is currently "B-Litting", to which George S. Gordon asks David Nichol Smith if he knows him, and he...
No letter is known for this year, but it is presumed that one was sent.
Tolkien sends the completed manuscript of his A Middle English Vocabulary which was intended to be part of Kenneth Sisam's Fourteenth Century Verse and ...
C.T. Onions writing to John Johnson of the Oxford University Press asks about the position which is being taken by the press in relation to the proposed...
Tolkien returns most of the proofs for A Middle English Vocabulary, with significant corrections. In a cover note he apologizes for his delay, he is onl...
Tolkien sends a postcard to Henry Bradley. Tolkien had worked with Bradley on the Oxford English Dictionary. He hopes Bradley has recovered from his rec...
Tolkien unsuccessfully applies for the position left vacant by George S. Gordon's resignation to take up the Merton Professor's chair at Oxford. Though ...
Postcard of the Tolkien family on holiday at Filey in North Yorkshire. A holiday at the same location a few years later was probably the inspiration for...
No letter is known for this year, but it is presumed that one was sent.
Tolkien writes to the wife of Joseph Wright thanking her for sending him her article about Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and some kind comments about ...
Tolkien together with the poet Wilfred Rowland Childe wrote to the Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer to defend the World War One (WW1) memorial by ...
Herbert Davis appears to inform George S. Gordon that Tolkien is ill, but that he had heard from E.V. Gordon that Tolkien was on the mend and would be OK.
George S Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam mentioning Tolkien's involvement in the Clarendon Chaucer. The book will be published in OUP's 'Clarendon Englis...
Following his letter of 14 June, Gordon writes again to Kenneth Sisam. Tolkien has agreed to provide the glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer and will beg...
Tolkien had written to Gordon which Gordon forwards to Sisam. Tolkien had raised points on the Clarendon Chaucer, especially the 'Prologue to the Canter...
During the academic year of 1923-24, Tolkien and and his co-editor on the Sir Gawain volume have been snowed under with lectures and preperation for the...
Kenneth replies to Gordon's letter agreeing to a revised page count for Sir Gawain, Gordon and Tolkien's edition can now contain 200 pages. He asks for ...
Gordon replies to Sisam's letter of 13 November , Gordon accepts the conditions for publication of Sir Gawain. They will restrict the glossary to 50 pag...
Tolkien receives proofs of the Clarendon Chaucer text and begins correcting them.
In a letter to Kenneth Sisam, Gordon reports that he and Tolkien will be able to provide Sisam with the text of Sir Gawain soon. The notes are almost co...
Gordon sends to Sisam a clean copy of the Sir Gawain text and notes that Tolkien has been able to purchase a copy of Thorkelin's Beowulf.
Writing to John Tolkien, Father Christmas tells him that he is "nineteen hundred and twenty four, no! seven! years old". Remarking he is much older than...
Tolkien returns the first 21 pages of proofs for the Clarendon Chaucer and notes some errors. In an attached note, Tolkien asks about the glossary for S...
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter and agrees with his changes but asks if he could try to keep any changes to punctuation, mainly due to costs. He discu...
Tolkien wishes Chambers a happy New Year and sends his appreciation for various recent works Tolkien has read.
Tolkien returns further proofs of the Clarendon Chaucer and thanks Sisam for his advice and for two copies of proofs of Sir Gawain whih he had recieved....
Sisam writes to Gordon. He has become alarmed at the lack of progress with the Clarendon Chaucer, saying that Tolkien "is occupied with Gawayne> influen...
Gordon replies to Sisam's letter defending Tolkien on the matter of the delay on the Clarendon Chaucer. He says that Tolkien has had "a hellish time".
Writing to Tolkien, Sisam says that he is patiently expecting the completed Clarendon Chaucer and asks Tolkien to look over some corrections for his A M...
Inspite of his letter to Tolkien early in March, Kenneth Sisam writes to David Nichol Smith to complain that Tolkien is not only holding up the Clarendo...
Gordon writes to Tolkien on various matters. Tolkien will reply to this letter informing Gordon that he retiring from the project. What Gordon says that...
Tolkien replies to Gordon, informing him that he is retiring from the Clarendon Chaucer.
Gordon writes to Sisam informing him that Tolkien has agreed that his place on the Clarendon Chaucer should be taken by another and he has agreed to ret...
Sisam replies to Gordon's letter. He supports Tolkien leaving the Clarendon Chaucer, noting that Tolkien has too much else getting in the way.
A manuscript letter from Tolkien to Cyril Brett, on the subject of Tolkien & Gordon's edition of Sir Gawain & The Green Knight (Oxford, 1925).
Tolkien writes to Jöran Sahlgren thanking him for his book Nordiska Ortnamn (Nordic Place Names).
Sisam had sent Tolkien a proof of the frontispiece for Sir Gawain and two sets of proofs from the Clarendon Chaucer with comments from Gordon and Tolkie...
In early December, Tolkien informs Kenneth Sisam that he and his family have been unwell and he is delayed with his work on the Clarendon Chaucer.
Sisam replies to Tolkien giving him dates to return the Clarendon Chaucer. He wants the glossary by end of year, 31 December at the latest and the notes...
George S. Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam. Tolkien has sent to him manuscript of his glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer, with a preface, for Gordon to lo...
George S. Gordon sends to Kenneth Sisam the manuscript of Tolkien’s glossary and preface for the Clarendon Chaucer with a note to say that he approves...
Further to Gordon's packet enclosing Tolkien's glossary and preface, Sisam replies with a stern warning that if Tolkien commits to as many corrections o...
As with #TCGLetter1929, he says to John that is short of time. He says that his "sleigh is waiting", noting that there are a lot more stockings to fill ...
Father Christmas writes to Michael but has no time. He hopes that Michael's "engine goes well". Polar Bear adds a post script noting that Michael should...
From a Bloomsbury auction the following was detailed: Songs for the Philologists, with the book comes a typed letter from Dr. Cyril Jackson, who studied...
This rather odd loose slip of paper was found inside a copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and is housed as part of the Bodleian Library Tolkien arc...
Sisam writes to Gordon saying that the glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer must be cut down by 10 pages. He tells Gordon that he will leave it to him to e...
Kenneth Sisam writes to Tolkien, enclosing the manuscripts for his glossary, and tells Tolkien to leave out "easy words". He had written that day to Gor...
Tolkien congratulates Wright on his retirement. Brief extracts were published in The Life of Joseph Wright Vol.2 p.651
A manuscript letter from Tolkien to Cyril Brett, on the subject of Tolkien & Gordon's edition of Sir Gawain & The Green Knight (Oxford, 1925).
Sisam writes to Tolkien, reminding him that he was meant to have handed in his notes on the Clarendon Chaucer by the end of January.
Tolkien sends his revised glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer to George S. Gordon.
George S. Gordon sends Tolkien's revised glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer to Kenneth Sisam. In the covering note he says that he feels Tolkien's prefac...
Kenneth Sisam sends Tolkien an advance copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, noting that some changes will be made. Oxford University Press will add ...
Either from Kenneth Sisam or the OUP, Tolkien is sent proofs of his glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer]/i]. George S. Gordon had corrected some galley p...
Lascelles Abercrombie writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon...
Tolkien writes to Mr. Ashton about his son, who is a student at the University of Leeds. He may not be able to take the degree he was hoping for, and To...
M.E. Sadler writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford...
Joseph Wright writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxfo...
Lewis Richard Farnell writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon...
Tolkien applies for the position of 'Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University'. He describes his schooling and his time at Leeds University as ...
Allen Mawer writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford...
George S. Gordon writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at O...
E.S. Craig, University Registrar at Oxford writes to Tolkien offering his congratulations on his successful application to the chair of Rawlinson and Bo...
Tolkien has been elected to the Rawlinson & Bosworth professorship at Oxford and must therefore resign his position at Leeds. His posting takes effect f...
This handwritten letter over 2 pages finds Tolkien discussing academia at Leeds University and his own poetry. Brett-Smith had written Tolkien a letter ...
Tolkien replies to E.S. Craig, enclosing the signed undertaking. He hopes that the statutes governing the chair can be mitigated as he has to give six m...
E.S. Craig replies to Tolkien's letter . He says that Tolkien should be able to work both Leeds and Oxford during the Michaelmas term. He includes a sch...
Tolkien writes to R.W. Chambers complaining that he has only recently finished marking School Certification exam papers, which he had to do to pay medic...
As with Tolkien's ealier letter this handwritten letter finds Tolkien again discussing academia at Leeds University. He promises Brett-Smith that he wil...
Tolkien writes a letter in support of E.V. Gordon's proposed elevation to the chair he himself vacated to take up the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorsh...
George S. Gordon sends to Kenneth Sisam a batch of manuscripts for the Clarendon Chaucer. AMong them texts, notes for the essays and he says that Tolkie...
In their J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide: Chronology, Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien resumes correspondence with R.W. Reynol...
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. The contents of this letter is currently unknown. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Col...
Father Christmas, writing to John and Michael, remarks how busy he is. Some of the presents which were due to be delivered for Christmas had been damage...
In late 1925, Tolkien and Reynolds began to write to each other again, and in early 1926, Tolkien sends to Reynolds various poems, including Lay of Leit...
Noted by Hammond/Scull, Tolkien "is appointed to a committee to draft a reply to a letter from the Hebdomadal Council on the duties and payments of exam...
Tolkien writes to Kenneth Sisam with news that he has finished his modern prose translation of Beowulf. Much of the letter remains unpublished but a por...
A one-page typewritten letter of recommendation JRRT wrote on behalf of A. H. Smith, recommending him “for an appointment as lecturer and teacher of E...
On 2 June, 1926, the Huddersfield Daily Examiner published a short piece on W. E. Haigh's A New Glossary of the Dialect of the Huddersfield District for...
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. Very little is known of the contents. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Collection.
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. Few details are known on the letters contents. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Collec...
Very little is known about this letter beyond the minor details given by Hammond/Scull. Tolkien had replied to William G. Harding about the word gemowe,...
Cecil Lewis of Lincoln College writes to Tolkien in regard to Tolkien's entry in the Year's Work in English Studies. He notes that "On page 43 you sugge...
As with Tolkien's previous year's letter, Father Christmas writes to John and Michael. He opens with mention of his shaky hand, blaming North Polar Bear...
Tolkien offers to write a testimonial for Ashton. He remarks that Oxford is very focused on the motor trade.
Tolkien replies to another inquiry from William G. Harding, this time about the etymology of the word 'sag'.
Father Christmas's letter for 1927 was the first to include Christopher, and other members of the Tolkien family, and others connected with the Tolkien ...
John Suffield sends a 'Christmas Letter' to Hilary. He had expected to not make another Christmas and notes as such on the card.
This letter, mentioned only briefly in Wheelbarrows at Dawn discusses family matters of the Incledon family.
Writing to Hilary, John Suffield gives family news. Hilary's cousin, Donald John Suffield reports that his father has died. He details the area where he...
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien boys, John, Michael, and Christopher wishing them a merry Christmas and offering details of his and his household...
Further to their #TCGLetter1940, the boys receive a second letter on Boxing Day. FC blames Polar Bear for this. Polar Bear adds on the envelope that it ...
Gordon was intending to start an Icelandic collection at Leeds. Tolkien writes to him on the matter. Included with this letter was a copy of Tolkien's p...
Hammond/Scull note that Tolkien, Onions, and Wyld sign a letter to the Secretary of Faculties on appointing a lecturer to teach English Language. They n...
Polar Bear writes a letter to the "boys", John, Michael, and Christopher in November 1929. He says that his paw is better after cutting Christmas trees....
C.S. Lewis writes to Tolkien. He has sat up all night reading the Lay of Leithian and is delighted with it. He has yet to finish but Hammond/Scull note ...
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children, including six month old Priscilla, the Tolkien's last child. FC says that it has been light as the Nort...
Blackwell's Rare Books description
Sisam writes to ask Tolkien if he would be interested to be part of an edition of the Ancrene Riwle.
In reply to Kenneth Sisam's letter, Tolkien replies that he would be interested to take part in an edition of the Ancrene Riwle. He in fact already has ...
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter and approves of Tolkien's intention to try to finish the Clarendon Chaucer.
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, and Christopher. He has received their letters, remarking how big their lists are. He says that he is getting ...
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children saying that he "enjoyed" all their letters. He has had no time and only finished the letter on Christmas...
After Tolkien had criticized to Kenneth Sisam, the lack of progress on the Clarendon Chaucer and bemaoned the fact that his notes had not been returned ...
Tolkien writes to Sisam. He has done as much work on the Clarendon Chaucer as possible during his "shattered vac". He is now to be snowed under with wor...
Tolkien, with thirteen others, signs a letter to the "General Board, requesting that the Chair of Comparative Philology be raised from Grade B to Grade A."
Father Francis Morgan writes to Hilary to congratulate him on the birth of his son. He wishes that he could perform the baptism but is now unable to tra...
Sisam replies to Tolkien explaining that the Clarendon Chaucer should have less notes than in a typical 'school' edition, suggesting that notes should b...
Kenneth Sisam forwards on a letter from a correpsondent who had asked about a possible connection aliri, a Middle English word, and aleary which appeare...
Father Francis Morgan replies to Hilary. He has been away for three weeks "at the Shaws and the other half at the Richmond Convent in Yorkshire." While ...
Robert Chapman replies to a letter from Tolkien, encouraging him to finish the Clarendon Chaucer.
Robert Chapman writes to David Nichol Smith after hearing from Tolkien who it appears will knuckle down and complete his parts on the Clarendon Chaucer.
During Tolkien's renewed desire to tackle the Clalrendon Chaucer, he remarks to OUP that he has learned a lot over the last few years and should deliver...
Robert Chapman writes to George S. Gordon asking if he can finish the Clarendon Chaucer without Tolkien.
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children, noting that he has already received letters from them. He has not started on the Christmas jobs yet and...
Writing to his brother, C. S. Lewis gives updates on his life and work. he makes a brief mention to Tolkien visiting him on Monday mornings to "drink a ...
R.E.M. Wheeler writes to Tolkien on the news that the Society of Antiquaries will publish a report on the excavations at Lydney Park, Gloucestershire. W...
Replying to Wheeler's letter. He mentions the possible connections between the names Nuada, Lludd, and Lydney. In July 1932 Tolkien’s note "The Name '...
Tolkien writes a letter to the noted scholar, Allen Mawer, on the subject of the word Lydney. This letter is almost certainly in connection to Tolkien's...
Wheeler replies to Tolkien's letter with thanks for his note. He suggests that Tolkien retain his note on 'Nodens' for the time being while he (Wheeler)...
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that Wheeler wrote to Tolkien on 2 January 1932, asking Tolkien to return to 'Nodens' note, but that Tolkien had ...
Mawer replies to Tolkien's letter on Lydney. He says that he himself has looked into the name but has not been able to come to any concrete conclusions.
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher, and Priscilla. He hopes the "little things" he has sent to them. The boys are "interested in Rail...
Wheeler writes asking Tolkien to return the 'Nodens' proof as the publisher is asking for it. But later on the same day, the note arrives as Tolkien had...
Wheeler writes a second letter to Tolkien thanking him for sending the proof note on 'Nodens'. In July 1932 Tolkien’s note 'The Name ‘Nodens’' is ...
A Philologist on Esperanto is the title given to a letter (written in the early part of 1932) from J.R.R. Tolkien to the secretary of the Education Comm...
Letter of recommendation for his B.Litt. student A. F. Colborn.
Tolkien writes to Kenneth Sisam asking if the Old English Exodus had been influenced by early Gallican Psalters.
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter on the subject of the Old English Exodus and its possible influence from Gallican Psalters. The contents of the letter...
Tolkien writes to Robert Chapman saying that he must finish the Clarendon Chaucer or else he will lose his good will with the Clarendon Press. Tolkien s...
Writing to Tolkien, Chapman offers to help with typing and urges Tolkien to get the Clarendon Chaucer off his mind. He believes that a Beowulf edition, ...
Father Christmas thanks the children for the letters they sent to him at the North Pole. FC says that he is worries because Polar Bear has gone missing ...
Kenneth Sisam writing to Tolkien on the subject of a collation of relevant Latin texts in the psalters. Tolkien in reply, #TCGLetter1768, will mention h...
Writing to Kenneth Sisam, Tolkien informs him that Sigelwara Land will be published over three volumes of Medium Ævum. He thanks Sisam, likely for the ...
Father Christmas, writing to the Tolkien children says he has much to tell them. He says that they heard funny noises underground at the North Pole and ...
Writing to his friend, Arthur Greaves, Lewis mentions among other matters, that he has been reading "a delightful... children's story Tolkien has just w...
Tolkien advertises in the March 1933 Meccano Magazine.
Tolkien confirms that he will visit Boar's Hill on the Saturday. Tolkien is pleased as he was furnished with a copy of the Oxford English Dictionary by ...
In a letter to his friend, Arthur Greaves, Lewis mentions his conversation with Tolkien in which they discuss, among other things, their agreement that ...
Signed by: T. GRAHAME BAILEY, M.A., B.D., D.Lirr., Reader in Urdu and Hindustami, University of London. T. C. BAILLIE, M.A., D.Sc., Principal, West Ham ...
In the first letter sent to Sigurður Nordal, dated August 20th 1933, Tolkien mentions that the diploma of honorary membership of the Bókmentāfélag a...
Tolkien sends his poem 'Firiel' to the Convents of the Sacred Heart (at Our Lady's School, Abingdon) to be published in their Chronicle of the Convents ...
A member of the Convents of the Sacred Heart writes to Tolkien to acknowledge that they have received his poem 'Firiel'.
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He says that the business of Christmas has begun and it has been very cold. He has ...
Thanking Chambers for his note and registering his sorrow at Chambers recent ill health. He offers his best wishes for 1934. He also encloses a report f...
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla saying that in November they were attacked by Goblins and Christmas almost did not h...
Writing to his son John, Tolkien asks about the credits he will take and also that he noted that his German books remained in his trunk after his holida...
Tolkien's B.Litt. student, and later close friend, Elaine Griffiths, sends Tolkien references to a manuscript he had asked her to prepare on the Ancrene...
In reply to Hilary's "interesting letter", Father Francis replies with news on happenings. He is happy to know the latest on Hilary's "mission" and note...
Tolkien sends his essay Chaucer as a Philologist: The Reeve's Tale, to David Nichol Smith. He hopes that Smith will be available to meet him before term...
Father Christmas writes to Christopher. Written on 20 November, FC remarks that he will not be sending his messengers out until October 15th. He says th...
Little is known of this letter to Tolkien from his friend and supporter R.W. (Raymond Wilson) Chambers but a fragment found in The Fall of Arthur is of ...
In this letter to G.H. Cowling of Melbourne, Australia, Tolkien opens by explaining his delay in writing. Stating that he is a terrible letter writer, t...
Father Christmas, writing to Christopher and Priscilla, thanks them for their many letters. He says that he has not had time like previous letters to wr...
Father Francis wishes Hilary and his family the best for 1935. He has been laid up with lumbago but is now on the mend.
Father Francis replies to Hilary's warm wishes for his birthday and asks him to pass on his thanks to Magdalen and Gabriel for the Violets they sent.
Tolkien writes to Priscilla, sends her love and kisses in return for a letter.
Father Francis Morgan dies on this date. Tolkien is then informed formally by the Birmingham Oratory. Priscilla Tolkien believes that her father could n...
This letter concerns R.W. Chambers biography of Thomas More. Quotes from the letter were published in Moreana 94 (June 1987) and Moreana 105 (April 1991).
During the autumn of 1935, the Early English Text Society invited Tolkien to prepare an edition of the Ancrene Riwle (MS CCCC402). Tolkien will reply th...
Tolkien will reply to A.H. Smith's letter on behalf of the Early English Text Society's invitation to prepare an edition of the Ancrene Riwle. He is kee...
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that the Oxford University Press sends to "Simonne d’Ardenne, and possibly Tolkien, proofs of An Edition of the...
Signed receipt for £1,000 from the executor of the will for Reverend Morgan. Morgan was Tolkien's guardian as a child after his mother passed away.
Father Christmas writes to the John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He says that there is "no ink this year", so he did not draw any pictures, thou...
Mabel Day, Secretary of the Early English Text Society, writes Tolkien a letter asking that he confirm his interest in the Ancrene Riwle in writing as r...
Tolkien is asked by GA&U if he wishes to working on a revision to John R. Clark Hall's Modern English transaltion of Beowulf and The Fight at Finnesburg...
Tolkien replies to the early 1936 letter from GA&U that is is too busy to work on a new Beowulf publication but suggests Elaine Griffiths for the task a...
Tolkien writes to Mabel Day of the EETS, firstly apologising for his delayed reply which had been requested by the end of 1935. He explains that his ass...
Tolkien writes to Mabel Day, of the EETS. He has not been able to type the specimen pages that he had promised so includes manuscript transcriptions wit...
Mabel Day replies to Tolkien's two letters from January, . She notes that she has sent the first to A.W. Pollard, and explains some of the policies of t...
A.W. Pollard replies to Tolkien's letter, which Mabel Day had forwarded to him. Hhe explains to Tolkien that while he sees advantages to reproducing the...
Replying to Mabel Day of the EETS, Tolkien thanks her for answering his questions about the EETS' policies on texts and arguing for his view that they s...
Tolkien writes to A.W. Pollard of the EETS on or shortly after this date. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that two versions of this letter exist,...
A.W. Pollard writes to Tolkien to inform him that Robin Flower has been asked to head up the Ancrene Riwle editions at the EETS and that Tolkien's speci...
Mabel Day sends Tolkien some possible corrections and ammendations for his A Middle English Vocabulary. She notes that she believes that Tolkien and Rob...
Writing to Tolkiem, Simonne d'Ardenne asking how his recovery is coming along after his injury. She will update him on her viva once she knows a date an...
C. A. Furth writes to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark-Hall edition of Beowulf. GA&U are keen for Tolkien to edit a new edition, or suggest a likely c...
Reverend Adrian Morey writes to Tolkien, informing him that he has found an Anglo-Saxon version of the Lord's Prayer while at the British Museum. He ask...
Some time in 1936, Aurelius Pompen had written to Tolkien asking if he and his family could take a paid guest for Michaelmas term, 1936.
Gordon writes to Tolkien as he had said nothing about the marking system for examinations. He goes on to note that he has read Seinte Iuliene. He is ups...
Tolkien replies to Gordon's letter concerning marking systems.
Gordon replies to Tolkien's letter asking about the vivas which will be held in London on 12 June. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien "...
Tolkien's children had been lent Barfield's book The Silver Trumpet by C.S. Lewis and very much enjoyed it.
The BBC writes to Tolkien for permission to broadcast a portion of his translation of the Middle English poem Pearl. Tolkien will reply on the same day ...
Tolkien replies to the BBC's request to broadcast a portion of his translation of Pearl. He gives permission for the reading.
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
Re. Adrian Morey writes to Tolkien. Tolkien had advised him to write an article on the 'Our Father' prayer in Anglo-Saxon, but Morey says that he has de...
Simonne d'Ardenne writes to Tolkien to say that once she has finished her latest article, on the Brussels Cross, she will send it on to him to read. She...
Reverend Father Aurelius Pompen (Professor of English at the Catholic University of Nijmegen) had contacted Tolkien asking if the family could take in a...
After failing to reply to Aurelius Pompen's letter earlier, Tolkien finally replies days before the start of Michaelmas term, 1936. Tolkien sends a note...
Tolkien sends the completed typescipt for the Hobbit and one illustration, likely one of his maps. Allen and Unwin will receive them two days later on 5...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien to acknowledge receipt of the typescripts for the Hobbit. He also asks Tolkien to see his translation of Pearl, which th...
Tolkien sends birthday wishes for his son Michael. He says that he has heard from John that he is short of cash and apologizes for his lack of help but ...
R.W. Chapman writes to George S. Gordon who it is assumed had mentioned Tolkien's increased salary. He is pleased, and also that Tolkien has been awarde...
Gordon replies to Chapman's letter saying that he believes that Tolkien has finished his parts on the Clarendon Chaucer, but that they are finished to a...
Sir Stanley Unwin's son Rayner was paid to write a review of a book that was being considered for publication, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
On 2 November 1936 Father Christmas writes a list of various toys which is then struck through. Among them, "Dolls", "Noah's Ark", "Crackers", and "Bear...
Following his letter to R.W. Chapman, Gordon must have spoken with Tolkien as he replies that "Tolkien will have another try."
Stanley Unwin sends to Tolkien the contract duplicate. This is noted by Hammond/Scull as the final step for accepting the Hobbit for publication and on ...
Further to her visit to see Tolkien, Susan Dagnall sends Tolkien a revised specimen page of The Hobbit and asks him to write a short blurb for GA&U to u...
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall's letter. He includes the blurb for publicity on the Hobbit. He does not like the star ornament at the beginning of the...
Susan Dagnall, at George Allen & Unwin, gives Tolkien feedback from the production department about adjustments that will need to be made to the five pr...
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He opens with apologies for his short letter, including a picture to show what had ...
This entry covers various letters between Tolkien, the Registry University of Oxford and King Edward VI School, Birmingham, relating to Tolkien’s tenu...
Tolkien details work he has recently completed on maps for The Hobbit, as well as other suggestions. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that ther...
Tolkien returns a slip to GA&U, likely the publicity piece for The Hobbit.
C. A. Furth of GA&U writes to Tolkien on matters of his illustrations for The Hobbit. His drawings are admirable and blocks for them are being produced....
Tolkien discusses the details of, and placement within the text, some of his illustrations in The Hobbit, as well as potential changes to his illustrati...
Susan Dagnall of GA&U writes to Tolkien asking if he can keep one day free, either 13 or 14 February, for her and C. A. Furth to visit Tolkien to discus...
Tolkien in reply to Susan Dagnall's letter sent that morning, , notes that he can keep either 13 or 14 February free. He includes the original drawing o...
Susan Dagnall writes to Tolkien, correcting a misstatement in her previous letter . Thror's Map will have to be used as an endpaper due to costs, but no...
Chambers writing to Tolkien tells him that he must not "delete a single word from" his Beowulf lecture. The letter from Chambers is found in Oxford, Bod...
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall of GA&U on matters of the reproductions of some of his illustrations in The Hobbit. In the 2023 revised edition of Lett...
Tolkien makes mention of the new volume on Buckingham by P.N. Tolkien also promises to send Chambers a copy of his book, written for his children and oc...
Tolkien replies to Michael's letter. It appears that Michael has opted to change his work, but Tolkien would like to talk with Welch & Bostock first bef...
GA&U send to Tolkien a set of proofs for the Hobbit.
Tolkien writes to GA&U noting that he has corrected the first proofs for The Hobbit but says that he wants to keep hold of them until the complete set h...
GA&U sends to Tolkien the remaining proofs of The Hobbit and ask that he restricts any corrections to those unavoidable. They further ask that he try to...
C. A. Furth of GA&U writes to Tolkien to inform him that the 'fine lines' in The Trolls illustration have broken when reproduced, but that there is no r...
GA&U return to Tolkien the typescripts of Farmer Giles of Ham and Roverandom.
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth of GA&U acknowledging the two drawings which were “safely received”, he has placed them in the correct positions among...
Tolkien returns to GA&U the remaining proofs, end-papers, and suggestions for them of The Hobbit.
Replying to Tolkien's letter, Furth confirms that Tolkien will receive proofs of the corrected portions for The Hobbit. Tolkien is warned that the corre...
Writing to C. A. Furth of GA&U, Tolkien hopes that the proofs for The Hobbit will arrive with him during his vacation. He also notes that he will attemp...
In reply to Tolkien's letter, C.A. Furth writes to say that the printers have decided to revise the whole of The Hobbit. Tolkien should receive some of ...
In two batches, Tolkien receives the proofs for The Hobbit. Exact dates are not known but does follow approximately to C. A. Furth's letter of 31 March ...
Oxford University Press provide Tolkien with proofs for his essay Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics. Tolkien delivered the lecture on 25 November 19...
Concerning Tolkien's corrections to the text of The Hobbit, the cost of those corrections, and who would incur that cost, as well as details of his subm...
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien. He makes mention that the margins around the Hobbit illustrations will be adjusted before the final printing and apologize...
Tolkien writes to his daughter Priscilla in April, 1937 while he is away on a walking tour of Somerset. He hopes to see her tomorrow. He remarks that he...
Tolkien writes back to Furth in regards to the dustjacket design for The Hobbit. Furth wrote on April 15th that the pink hue that Tolkien put on the mou...
Furth writes to Tolkien to say that the red will have to be removed from The Hobbit jacket and the sun will have an outline to highlight it. This letter...
C. A. Furth informs Tolkien that a US publisher is interested in publishing The Hobbit and they would like to add four colour illustrations to the book....
This two-page handwritten letter contains some of Tolkien's thoughts on the potential publication of The Hobbit in the USA. Tolkien can make illustratio...
In reply to Tolkien's letter asking about the US publisher interested in The Hobbit, C. A. Furth gives details. It is the Houghton Mifflin Company (HMC)...
GA&U send to Tolkien (for his approval) proof copies of The Hobbit dust-jacket.
GA&U send to Tolkien (for his approval) sample bindings for The Hobbit.
In this three-page handwritten letter, Tolkien writes to his publisher about the release date for The Hobbit, going on at length about how it would be b...
Tolkien, writing to GA&U approves the dust-jacket for The Hobbit but feels the sun would be better with a finer outline. He prefers the green binding an...
Tolkien writes to Lionel Salt, the Bursar at Pembroke College, University of Oxford to apologise that he must miss a play as Christopher, his son was ha...
Writing to Tolkien, C. A. Furth of GA&U asks him to return the approved binding for The Hobbit. He agrees that the 'wavy line' will be removed, but says...
Noted in their letter to Tolkien of 1 June 1937, C. A. Furth says that they have written to Houghton Mifflin in regard of Tolkien's letter to them of 28...
Chmabers writes telling Tolkien that he is relieved that the Beowulf lecture retained all the text Tolkien had shown him. This followed a letter from Fe...
On 2 June, Mabel Day had reported to the Early English Text Society that their edition of the Ancrene Riwle had met on 27 May. They recommended that the...
Tolkien writes to Pembroke College recommending Mr. N. Davis for a place at the college.
R. W. Chambers writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his cong...
Allen Mawer writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congrat...
C. S. Lewis recieves an unbound copy of The Hobbit from GA&U.
Furth sends a new sample case of The Hobbit to Tolkien with changes to the lettering and decorations after Tolkien's feedback sent on 28 May.
David Nichol Smith writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his ...
F. E. Harmer writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congra...
George S. Gordon writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his co...
C. A. writes, informing Tolkien that GA&U will send him a new binding for The Hobbit. It will have have different lettering without the lines under the ...
Tolkien writes to Furth of GA&U. He agrees that the revised binding would do. He had hoped that the 'wavy line' would be transformed into something and ...
GA&U send Russell Meiggs, editor of the Oxford Magazine, an unbound copy of The Hobbit per Tolkien's request. It is assumed that with any manuscript/pro...
Tolkien writes to GA&U and encloses the most recent photograph of himself as requested by Susan Dagnall. By letter or in person? He asks them again abou...
A.W. Rablen, an undergraduate at Oxford, writes a letter to Tolkien, listing some misprints in the 1930 impression of the Tolkien and Gordon's Sir Gawai...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of his visit to London to meet with him and C. A. Furth on 28 July. He notes that if they have heard from ...
Tolkien replies to Stanley Unwin's letter. He will meet him at the GA&U office around 12.30pm on 28 July. He is unsure of the copyright status of the ph...
F. Molina writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congratul...
Tolkien had been in London a day after seeing Stanley Unwin and had been asked to dinner next time he had reason to be in London, but Tolkien felt it wa...
GA&U send C. L. Wrenn a copy of The Hobbit as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover l...
At Tolkien's request, GA&U sends Helen Buckhurst a copy of The Hobbit. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cove...
GA&U send a copy of The Hobbit to Elaine Griffiths. Elaine was a family friend, and recalls reading the story from a "beautifully typed copy". It is ass...
Robert Rattenbury is sent a copy of The Hobbit. It is not known specifically who sent it to him, be that Tolkien himself or through GA&U. No other detai...
A. H. Smith from the Early English Text Society is sent a copy of The Hobbit by GA&U as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/pro...
Russell Meiggs (editor of the Oxford Magazine) writes to Tolkien with thanks for a copy of The Hobbit. The letter was described by Meiggs himself as an ...
Please note that we do not believe any letter exists for this entry but rather that Tolkien hand-delivered a copy of The Hobbit for family friends, the ...
Oliver Elton writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congra...
Having not heard from Tolkien since her last letter, Mabel Day writes again. She notes that most members agree with him, but that senior member A. W. Po...
C. A. Furth writes to let Tolkien know that he is sending to him an advance copy of The Hobbit and asks if he would like more. He notes that Houghton Mi...
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien hopes that they can lunch together when he visits London next, most likely in November. He has not as yet had time to ...
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth asking that copies of The Hobbit be sent to R. W. Chambers and George S. Gordon. He says that GA&U can use the colour illu...
As requested by Tolkien, C. A. Furth sends a copy of The Hobbit to R. W. Chambers. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent...
George S. Gordon receives a copy of The Hobbit as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cov...
Chambers writes to Tolkien thanking him for a copy of The Hobbit. It is this letter which is forwarded by Tolkien with a letter to GA&U. He updates Tolk...
Furth confirms that he has sent the copies of the Hobbit to the people Tolkien requested. He includes the drawing of a dragon that Tolkien had produced ...
Tolkien replies to Mabel Day's letter of 6 August. He says that he hoped to have completed work on her request by now but notes that the death of the li...
Mabel Day replies to Tolkien's letter. She will ask Cambridge for permission to use their manuscript. She notes that A. W. Pollard claims to have not re...
Tolkien sends the last two colour drawings for the American edition of The Hobbit and asks GA&U to send it on to Houghton Mifflin. he also asks about a ...
E. V. Gordon sends to Tolkien the completed manuscript of his edition of Pearl and asks him to revise and criticize it. Tolkien will reply by 20 Novembe...
In a letter to Tolkien, C. A. Furth notes that he has written to Houghton Mifflin asking that Tolkien's specimen drawings be returned and asks them to c...
Writing to C.A. Furth, and apologizes for his lengthy letter regarding the dustcover blurb. Tolkien believes he is still waiting on five copies of The H...
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien an advance of £25 for The Hobbit.
Chambers writes again offering thanks for a copy of The Hobbit, and presumably, criticism on it. He gives Tolkien an update on his recovery after a bout...
C. A. Firth informs Tolkien that he is sending a complimentary copy of The Hobbit to W. R. Childe and that his remaining author copies will be sent to h...
Childe is sent a copy of The Hobbit which had been requested by Tolkien. Childe writes to thank Tolkien and offer his congratulations on the publication...
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth of GA&U. He needs five outstanding author's copies and seven copies for giving to a few people who cannot buy a of The Hobb...
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, apologizes for sounding ungrateful to him. Unwin had sent Tolkien a much welcomed cheque. He hopes that the Hobbit ea...
A short note enclosed with a copy of The Hobbit which was published on the same day. It was sent to Simonne d'Ardenne as a gift. This letter is held amo...
Tolkien sends a copy of his newly published book, The Hobbit, to his friend E. V. Gordon.
GA&U sends a copy of The Hobbit to Tolkien's cousin, Marjorie Incledon at his request. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books ...
GA&U send Mary Incledon, Tolkien's cousin, a copy of The Hobbit as requested by him. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books se...
Tolkien sent a copy of The Hobbit to his Aunt Mabel, but it is not known if it arrived before her death. John D. Rateliff notes in his History of The Ho...
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to Tolkien family friend and former student, Katharine Kilbride, with a dedication and a four-line original inscripti...
Edith's cousin, Jennie Grove is sent a copy of The Hobbit. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
On or around publication day of The Hobbit, Tolkien sends an inscribed copy to his former student and friend Stella Mills. It is assumed that with any m...
Tolkien sends family friends, Charles and Dorothy Moore a copy of his newly published book, The Hobbit. Their copy of the book was put up for auction on...
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to his brother, Hilary. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
Tolkien wrote to his Aunt, Jane Neave enclosing a signed copy of The Hobbit. This letter and the book were described with some short quotes and an image...
Kilbride writes to Tolkien from Bradford offering praise for The Hobbit. This letter is held among the Tolkien Papers at the Bodleian Library.
Christopher Tolkien writes to Father Christmas. He mentions his fathers new book, The Hobbit, remarking that their father had written "it ages ago" and ...
E. V. Gordon replies to Tolkien to thank him for a copy of The Hobbit and offers comments on the story. The letter is held at the Bodleian Library archive.
Helen Buckhurst writes to Tolkien to thank him for arranging for a copy of The Hobbit to be sent to her. She says the book is delightful, though she wis...
Jennie Grove writes to Tolkien thanking him for the copy of The Hobbit she has recieved. She is "delighted" by it and hopes that it is a huge success fo...
Hilary writes to Tolkien thanking him for sending a copy of The Hobbit. He will read it soon and then will read it with Gabriel, his eldest son. He also...
Tolkien had arranged that a copy of The Hobbit be sent to Childe, and Childe writes to congratulate Tolkien on its publication and offers thanks for his...
C.A. Furth informs Tolkien that Houghton Mifflin Co. will pay him $100 for use of his illustrations for their edition of The Hobbit, due to be (and ulti...
Susan Dagnall writes to Tolkien asking if he would recommend anyone who could write a book, The Loom of Language. She encloses a synopsis of the book wi...
Tolkien's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to Tolkien demanding to know more about his new book, The Hobbit. Tolkien had written to her, and signed a copy of th...
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to the Jennings family. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
In reply to Susan Dagnall's letter, Tolkien writes asking for information on The Loom of Language.
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesn't expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla ...
Susan Dagnall replies to Tolkien offering more information on the proposed book, The Loom of Language that has been proposed to GA&U. It had been mentio...
Tolkien thanks Michael for keeping an eye of Christopher. He says that "Chris" will make a mess of things to start, but he will settle in and be of no f...
Dorothy Moore writes to Tolkien. Christopher Tolkien had spent some time with them on holiday and she makes mention of this and remarks on The Hobbit. T...
Allen & Unwin had sent copies of The Hobbit to various authors in order to solicit reviews. Hughes's response was used for publicity materials to advert...
Tolkien writes back to Susan Dagnall on the proposed Loom of Language book. He describes the scheme as bad, and remarks that he had considered if it wer...
Tolkien had written to his aunt, Jane Neave on 22 September and signed a copy of The Hobbit. It turned out that he had mislaid the letter and book and t...
Mary writes to Tolkien asking if he would send her a presentation copy of The Hobbit. In return she will send him prayers. This letter is found among th...
Aunt Jane writes again to Tolkien now that she has recieved a copy of The Hobbit. She is delighted with it and says that "the origin of golf" finished h...
Following his previous letter offering Tolkien thanks and congratulations on The Hobbit, Childe sends a postcard with congratulations on the positive re...
G.E.K. Braunholtz, a colleague from Oxford writes to Tolkien. He has read the positive review in The Times and quotes from it in his letter. This letter...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien telling him that The Hobbit is selling well, and had good reviews in the Times Literary Supplement and The Times itself....
Tolkien was pleased that The Hobbit was being well received, though he knows that the two glowing, unsigned reviews in The Times and the Times Literary ...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. he remarks that he has no doubt that Tolkien will do well from his first publication. He describes Tolkien as a genius ...
Originally published as just a fragment of a thank you letter to Stanley Unwin who had written that Tolkien was "one of those rare people with genius." ...
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin suggests 17 November for their next meeting. Tolkien had written earlier that day suggesting other dates but writes an...
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien suggests that their next meeting should be in November, saying that the afternoon of the 10th is OK or that he is free...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin. He had suggested they meet in November for their next meeting and gives various dates, but Stanley writes a letter whic...
J.N.L. Myres, History scholar at Christ Church, Oxford, writes to Tolkien and asks his opinion on a runic inscription which was found on a bone which wa...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien having only received his first letter from 29 November. He offers to meet Tolkien on the 10th, 12th, or 15th of November.
Tolkien replies to Stanley Unwin's latest letter. He tells Stanley to choose between the 15 and 17 for their meeting.
Stanley Unwin writes to confirm 15 November for their meeting. He also remarks that he would like to see Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. Wayne Hammond ...
Tolkien replies to Mlle Tardivel's letter on a French translation of The Hobbit. He says that he will forward this to his publisher, George Allen & Unwi...
F.E. Harmer, a colleague from Manchester writes to Tolkien to ask advice on the meaning of various Old English words and if Tolkien could present any ci...
Tolkien has received the proofs from Elliot & Fry of the photographs taken of him. Edith has chosen one to send to Stanley.
Mlle Tardivel writes to Tolkien asking about the possibility of her translating The Hobbit into French.
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter with comments on his photoshoot with Elliot & Fry. He encloses a ticket for Tolkien to attend the Sunday Times...
Hilary's Aunt Mabel writes in reply to his letter. She has been unwell for quite some time and is only able to travel short distances. She hopes to be w...
Tolkien's aunt, Grace, writes to him offering thoughts on The Hobbit. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library archives with the Tolkien Papers.
Stanley writes to Tolkien and includes his manuscript of Farmer Giles of Ham which GA&U had previously viewed. He tells Tolkien that if he has a similar...
C.V. Salmon from the BBC writes to Tolkien to ask if he would like to discuss a project. Salmon wants to give a broadcast on Beowulf including a reading...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, including a letter he received from a Mlle Tardivel who had written asking about a possible French translation of The H...
Tolkien replies to Salmon of the BBC who had written asking about Tolkien's interest in a BBC Radio programme on Beowulf. Tolkien would be very interest...
E.V. Gordon writing to Tolkien. Sisam has said that his Pearl edition is too long and Gordon asks Tolkien if he would be willing to "prune" it for him, ...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in reply to his letter on foreign translations of The Hobbit. He mentions that GA&U are working to arrange German, Scand...
Writing to his friend and colleague E.V. Gordon, Tolkien says of Gordon that he has been treated badly. He says that he cannot help enough on the Pearl ...
Salmon writes to Tolkien and asks if they can meet in Oxford on 29 November, a Monday.
Tolkien replies to Salmon. He can meet him any time on Monday 29 November. Hammond/Scull note that C.V. Salmon will visit Tolkien in Oxford on 29 Novemb...
Selby writes to Tolkien on various matters related to The Hobbit. He asks about discrepancies between the text of The Hobbit and 'Thror's Map'. Tolkien ...
Tolkien informs Gordon that he will be in Birmingham for his Aunt Mabel's (Mitton) funeral who had died the previous day.
Stanley Unwin returns the manuscript for The Lost Road to Tolkien and notes that he has organized a typescript of it for Tolkien which will be sent onto...
Salmon had visited Tolkien in Oxford the previous day and they had organised a date for their Beowulf broadcast but he writes to say that the date is no...
Young Christopher writes a letter to Father Christmas (likely in early December) where he describes how his father (JRR Tolkien) read The Hobbit to him ...
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to his Aunt Florence who had emigrated to British Columbia, Canada, possibly with a letter or note (not seen).
Tolkien writes to his friend, E.V. Gordon, and says that he is willing to help with the reduction of his volume on Pearl. He remarks however, that he is...
E.V. Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam after receiving Tolkien's letter. Tolkien and he will attempt to reduce the Pearl manuscript for publication but he ...
Tolkien replies to C.V. Salmon of the BBC. He is available on 14 January for the broadcast of the Beowulf reading but objects to the loss of five minute...
Salmon replies to Tolkien's letter agreeing that it better to cut down the reading, retaining the introductory reading for their Beowulf broadcast.
Arthur Ransome, best known for his Swallows and Amazons series of childrens books wrote to Tolkien in 1937 after The Hobbit had been published, firstly ...
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in replying to Selby's November letter due to his poor health. He remarks that he prefers his own mythology which The H...
Further to his earlier letters to Tolkien Chambers had recently finished writing a review (see reference below) of Tolkien's Beowulf: The Monsters and t...
Replying to Arthur Ransome's letter of 13th December Tolkien opens with exclamations of honour at receiving a letter from Ransome. Tolkien apologizes fo...
Stanley writes to Tolkien with news that the first edition of The Hobbit has sold and a new printing will be issued almost immediately. He notes that To...
C.V. Salmon writes asking Tolkien if he is free after 3 January (1938) to rehearse the reading of their Beowulf broadcast.
Tolkien has received a letter from Arthur Ransome, who wonders about the use of the word "man" in The Hobbit, as well as a few other letters from reader...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in connection to a competition ran by W.G. Le Tall of Geoffrey Tyndale’s Bookshop in Bath. They are offering prizes to...
Arthur Ransome writes to Tolkien with further thoughts about The Hobbit. He says that he had recently had an operation and the book had turned that time...
Following a letter the previous day from Stanley Unwin, Le Fall of Geoffrey Tyndale’s Bookshop in Bath writes to Tolkien with details on the competiti...
C.A. Furth writes to update Tolkien on their efforts to get the reprint of The Hobbit out for the Christmas rush. The demand for it is high, GA&U had to...
Salmon writes to ask Tolkien how he would like to be described in the Radio Times for their Beowulf broadcast.
Tolkien writes to C.V. Salmon explaining that he has been ill and has not yet written the broadcast for 14 January on Beowulf. he will get it to him as ...
"I have written the first chapter of a new story about Hobbits – 'A long expected party'" remarks Tolkien in this letter to C.A. Furth of GA&U. This i...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien and includes colour plates of illustrations for The Hobbit along with a report from Rayner on The Adventures of Tom Bomb...
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien a typescript of Tolkien's story, The Lost Road to him, as promised. He says that its possible publishing success is hard to ...
When The Hobbit was published back in September, 1937, Tolkien had sent a signed first edition to his family friend, Katherine Mary. She had lent the bo...
Tolkien's Aunt Lily congratulates him on the publication of a second printing of The Hobbit. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library among their Tol...
C.V. Salmon writes to Tolkien to suggest that they set 12 January 1938 for their rehearsal of the Beowulf broadcast on BBC Radio.
Father Christmas writes to Christopher and Priscilla, "and other old friends at 20 Northmoor Road" for Christmas 1937. He remarks that is is 17 years si...
G.B. Smith's mother, Ruth Smith, writes to Tolkien with thanks for the copy of The Hobbit he sent her. She also touches on Christopher Tolkien. This let...
Tolkien replies to C.V. Salmon. He says that he is in London on 10 January, which would work better for him. He explains that he is still unwell but tha...
W.G. Le Tall again writes to Tolkien about the competition his bookshop is running on The Hobbit. The letter is held with the Tolkien Papers at the Bodl...
C.V. Salmon writes to Tolkien to confirm that he has secured a studio for their rehearsal of the Beowulf broadcast which will take place on 14 January. ...
Tolkien writes to C.V. Salmon to confirm that he should be at the BBC studio by 11am on January 10th, if the 9.12am train to London is on time. He remar...
Tolkien sends his script to C.V. Salmon for their BBC Radio Beowulf broadcast. He hopes that he has managed to time it correctly for the fifteen minute ...
Tolkien sends a revised script for the Beowulf broadcast. He mentions that one of his children has "suddenly developed a bad heart" and he has been deal...
A reader had written to the Observer newspaper asking various questions on The Hobbit and Beowulf. White sends a clipping of that letter to Tolkien and ...
Originally published as just a fragment of a letter, asking if Rayner Unwin was interested to read the "sequel to The Hobbit". In the revised 2023 editi...
Tolkien sends to his publisher, the first chapter of a new book, the sequel to The Hobbit. ‘A Long-expected Party’, the first chapter of this book, ...
Le Tall sends his personal copy of The Hobbit for Tolkien to sign for him. He updates Tolkien on the competition, noting that it has not gone as well as...
Stanley Unwin writes that his son Rayner is delighted with the sample chapter from the new book about hobbits. Rayner does wonder if a child who hasn't ...
Tolkien's Aunt Florence (Hadley) writes to thank him the copy of The Hobbit which he sent to her in British Columbia, Canada. She notes that had her sis...
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien, enclosing his manuscript of Mr. Bliss. He includes some instructions explaining how best to reproduce the illustrations an...
Tolkien replies to C.A. Furth regarding the return of Mr. Bliss. Tolkien expresses regret for any trouble caused and wishes someone could redraw the pic...
Tolkien informs his publisher that Houghton Mifflin are yet to return to him the five orginal watercolour paintings for The Hobbit.
In this two page handwritten letter, Tolkien thanks Unwin's son Rayner for his positive feedback on the first chapter of the new book, "A Long-Expected ...
Further to their letters on Mr. Bliss, C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien remarking that Mr. Bliss could be reproduced in the same manner as the Beatrix Potte...
Tolkien responds to a request, likely from a researcher or enthusiast, regarding the origins and inspirations behind his work, particularly The Hobbit. ...
Houghton Mifflin Co. send the five colour illustrations to GA&U discussed late in 1937.
Mabel Day writes to Tolkien, reminding him that 6 months have past since he was asked to provide specimens for the Ancrene Riwle.
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien a reader's report on Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. The report does not favour the story, to which Tolkien will write a co...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin about C.S. Lewis's Out of the Silent Planet and gives him an update on progress with the sequel to The Hobbit. He also m...
GA&U send the five colour illustrations (sent from Houghton Mifflin Co.) to Tolkien. In their Companion and Guide, Chronology, p. 223, Wayne Hammond and...
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note on their 'Addenda and Corrigenda to The J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide Revised and Enlarged Edition (2017) Vo...
Tolkien expresses reluctance to create drawings of hobbits and suggests leaving such tasks to someone with artistic skills. He provides a description of...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. He has now received three readers reports on the novel and is awaiting...
B.S. Harvey of the National Provincial Bank writes to Tolkien acknowledging payment of some cheques and as a post script asks Tolkien if he would mind s...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien again on the matter of Out of the Silent Planet. Having now received five reports and only one is positive. He has decid...
Houghton Mifflin, the American publisher of The Hobbit, notified Tolkien that he has won a $250 award for the best children's book published that Spring.
Tolkien forwards the cablegram he received from Houghton Mifflin notifying him of The Hobbit's win as best Children's Book for Spring.
Tolkien had sent a Cablegram from Houghton Mifflin to him onto GA&U and Stanley Unwin replies that they will that for publicity purposes. He also asks T...
Stanley writes a short cover letter to Tolkien explaining that Rayner has had little time (going to boarding school on this day), but has scribbled down...
Rayner "scribbles" a book report on the first three chapters of the Hobbit sequel. His father Stanley sends this review to Tolkien along with a cover le...
Kenneth Sisam writes to Tolkien on E.O.G. Turville-Petre's Viga-Glúms Saga. He notes that it will be published in their Oxford English Monographs serie...
M. Williams, a former student at Oxford, now of the Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart, New York, writes to Tolkien offering memories of her tim...
Houghton Mifflin Co. send Tolkien a cheque for $250 for being awarded first prize in the New York Herald Tribune book awards. The Hobbit had won first p...
Writing to Sisam, Tolkien opens by noting that he received a card from Turville-Petre, who would be leaving for Iceland, most likely on 5 June. He sugge...
Stanley Unwin writes that Houghton Mifflin (the American publisher) reports having sold approximately 3000 copies of The Hobbit, and will re-announce it...
Tolkien thanks Stanley Unwin for the excellent news from America, where The Hobbit is selling well and it has won a prize of $250. Rayner's review of th...
Francis P. Magoun of Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA writes to Tolkien in praise of The Hobbit. He notes his growing interest in Gothic. Magoun had visite...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien and notes his regret that Tolkien does not have much time to write. He will write directly to Elaine Griffiths on matter...
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien informing him that Elaine Griffiths has asked to be released from her contract to deliver the revised edition of the Clark ...
Tolkien provides a letter of recommendation for his B.Litt student A.F. Colborn.
A German publisher is interested in The Hobbit but needs Tolkien to confirm his Aryan descent before proceeding.
Tolkien bemoans The Hobbit being published in 1937 over 1938. His work pressure has left him hard-pressed to get into actions on the sequel. Tolkien has...
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth. He is struggling to suggest anyone who can fulfill the work for GA&U's Clark Hall Beowulf. He in fact now believes that it...
Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin in response to a letter from a German publisher, Rütten & Loening Verlag. They wanted to publish a German translation of...
Rütten & Loening Verlag, the German publisher enquired about publishing a German translation of The Hobbit. As part of their conditions they wanted to ...
Tolkien responds to Mr. Masefield regarding the lines provided for a performance. Tolkien expresses no objection to being preceded by the lines and defe...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. he remarks that his letters of 25 July "have been a source of much merriment and satisfaction at this office". He tells...
Tolkien sends his condolences to the wife of E.V. Gordon, who had recently died due to complications from an operation. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scul...
Edith sends her condolences for the death of Ida's husband, E. V. Gordon.
C.A. Furth replies to Tolkien remarking that he would be happy for Tolkien to work on the Clark Hall Beowulf volume. He suggests a fee payable to Tolkie...
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien on matters of publishing. He says that the next book they will have to publish is Mr. Bliss, but they have missed the windo...
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien says that he is required to visit London, to the Connaught Hospital in Walthamstow but had only a few hours notice but co...
Tolkien pays tribute to E. V. Gordon, and offers any help he can, talking about finances, the publication of 'The Wanderer' and 'The Seafarer', and the ...
Tolkien writes to John Masefield relating to the 'Summer Division' and praises the recitation of his Letters from Pontus (Epistulae ex Ponto) along with...
As requested by Mabel Day, John Johnson sends Tolkien specimen pages of the Early English Text Societies edition of the Corpus Christi College MS of Anc...
Simonne d'Ardenne writes to Tolkien on matters of St. Katherine after she had visited the British Museum and seen some of their items.
Tolkien has been ill. He offers advice on Ida's financial situation after the death of her husband, E.V. Gordon.
Tolkien writes to Mr. Furth, expressing his current state of being oppressed and unwell due to recent troubles. He submits Farmer Giles for consideratio...
In reply to Tolkien's letter, Furth sends an update on the matter of translations of The Hobbit. GA&U have not progressed with translations into French ...
Catherine Lambert, a writer from London writes to Tolkien on The Hobbit and mentions her own publications. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library a...
Tolkien offers more condolences about the Gordon family's loss, and talks more about his childhood. He acknowledges receipt of papers relating to Pearl ...
The secretary of St. Andrews University wrote a letter to Tolkien confirming their wish for him to deliver the Andrew Lang Lecture, they hope that Tolki...
Andrew Bennett, Secretary of University Court at St. Andrews had written to Tolkien asking if he would deliver the Andrew Lang Lecture at the university...
Tolkien replies to Simonne d'Ardenne's letter of 10 October. In it he offers various corrections and suggestions for Sweet's Anglo-Saxon Primer and says...
Writing to Tolkien, Simonne d'Ardenne complains about Hitler and the situation in Europe but she hopes that world events will work out for the best. On ...
In this letter to Stanley Unwin, J.R.R. Tolkien discusses his recent intense work on a sequel to The Hobbit, which has reached Chapter XI. He expresses ...
Andrew Bennett writes to acknowledge Tolkien letter on the matter of the Andrew Lang Lecture at St. Andrews University.
Tolkien writes a letter of recommendation for Oratory School Headmaster, Richard Hope who has applied for a post at the University of Malta.
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien offering his sympathies for his current problems with health and various matters of work. He says that GA&U have written...
F.E. Harmer from the University of Manchester writes to Tolkien and encloses her article ‘Anglo Saxon Charters and the Historian’. She remarks that ...
Tolkien opens with news of the terrible year the family have had. Christopher has had a bad heart and in bad health the entire year. More than a dozen f...
Father Christmas writes to Priscilla, wishing her and everyone in the house a Merry Christmas. FC says that neither he nor Ilbereth have had time to dra...
On Boxing Day, Father Christmas sends Priscilla a second letter including a copy of a Beatrix Potter book of paintings, remarking that it is the last. P...
Tolkien and Charles Williams signing of the will of Warren H. Lewis. 2pp received by Clyde S. Kilby, August 1966.
Writing to GA&U, Wrenn notes the chaotic nature of the Clark Hall Beowulf volume and asks for more time to complete the work. He includes the introducti...
Replying to Wrenn's letter, C.A. Furth agrees to Wrenn having more time to sort and edit the Clark Hall Beowulf. He asks if it would be cheaper to reset...
In reply to Furth's letter questioning whether Tolkien has made progress with the preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf, Wrenn says he will mention this to...
This letter is quoted in D'Ardenne's article 'Two Words in Ancrene Wisse and the Katherine Group' in Notes and Queries 227 (1982), p. 3 where Tolkien di...
Andrew Bennett from University of St Andrews, had not heard from Tolkien since October regarding the 1939 Andrew Lang Lecture and writes to him again on...
Writing to Tolkien, C.A. Furth suggests to Tolkien that if he has not made progress on The Lord of the Rings that they should revisit the subject of Mr....
Tolkien replies to Andrew Bennett's letter, suggesting 8 March to deliver his lecture at St. Andrews.
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien offers an update with his work on The Lord of the Rings. He has not worked on since December but feels it is a better wor...
In reply to Tolkien's letter of 2 February, Furth tells Tolkien that the middle of June will be the latest date that GA&U can receive and have ready a w...
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien expresses gratitude for the enclosed cheque for royalities for 1938 and an advance of the royalties from Houghton Mifflin...
Furth informs Tolkien that he has told the German publisher that he (Tolkien) wishes to see a proof of the translation of The Hobbit before going to pri...
A letter was sent to Oxford University about the derivation of the name Washington in relation to the first President of the United States of America, G...
Furth writes to Tolkien again on the German publishers edition of The Hobbit. They will not publish until the autumn, and have agreed that they will pro...
Tolkien offers his sympathies to his son Michael as he has been bedridden with a bad cold. He has been very busy and feels he has neglected his son with...
Writing to R.W. Chambers, Tolkien expresses his fears of the propaganda circling around the developing world situation. Chambers had sent Tolkien a copy...
Tolkien writes to Alan Rock apologising that he is not available to see him. He and Edith are busy in the day and Edith is currently unwell. Alan Rook (...
Edith writes to Alan Rook to invite him and Mr. St. John to visit the Tolkien's next Sunday. Alan Rook (1909-1990) a student at Oxford in the 1930s, had...
Stanley Unwin writing to Tolkien, asks for an update on his progress with The Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien pens a letter to Miss Segar regarding hours for the upcoming examinations. He also asks her for the address of a Miss Ridgeway to the same ends....
John Masefield writes to Tolkien asking if he would again like to take part in the 'Summer Diversions'.
Tolkien writes apologetically because he has missed the deadline for the program (of the year's Oxford Summer Diversions); he had looked through The Can...
Writing to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark Hall Beowulf, Philip Unwin asks Tolkien's opinion on the likely demand for the volume in current times (th...
Tolkien updates Phillip Unwin on the current situation at universities given the news of war with Germany. He says there will be a reduced demand, but s...
Tolkien is informed by the War Office that for the present he will not be called to work as a cryptographer. Hammond/Scull note that he will in fact not...
W.N. Beard from GA&U's production department writes to Tolkien informing him that C.L. Wrenn has completed his revisions of the Clark Hall Beowulf. Bear...
Writing to his wife, Charles Willians notes that Tolkien and Lewis have asked him to lecture at Magdalen next term if he's still around at that time.
Writing to his brother, W.H. Lewis, C.S. Lewis tells of an evening spent with Tolkien, Charles Williams, and C.L.Wrenn discussing matters of the bible. ...
Tolkien and other members of the Inklings meet at the Eastgate Hotel on 9 November. Lewis gives details on the night to his brother Warren. Among readin...
Tolkien has not replied to Beard on the matter of his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf and Beard reminds Tolkien that a reply is still required.
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin says that he would like Tolkien to meet his eldest son, David, who works at Blackwell's Bookshop in Oxford.
Having still not heard from Tolkien, a month after his last reminder, Beard again writes to Tolkien. He now tells Tolkien that the Clark Hall Beowulf is...
Tolkien finally replies to W.N. Beard's letters reminding him that his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf is due. He says that he hopes to have time ove...
After Stanley Unwin's letter mentioned that he would like Tolkien to meet his son, David, Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in the evening after speaking ...
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, expresses gratitude for the kind note and apologizes for his neglectful correspondence due to personal and health iss...
Father Christmas writing to Priscilla is glad she sent him two letters. He hopes that her "Bingo family" have a "jolly Christmas". He remarks that he is...
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter of 19 December. He says that it would be a relief to receive Tolkien's work on the Clark Hall Beowulf, remarki...
Tolkien in a letter to The Society (addressed to Chapman) says he is not able to host The Society meeting and dinner as Exeter and Pembroke are not avai...
Charles Williams, writing to his wife, says that Tolkien and Lewis are taking him to the Divinity School at Oxford tomorrow. Note that Wayne Hammond and...
C.S. Lewis writing to his brother Warren gives him updates on happenings, and among them a meeting of the Inklings.
GA&U write to Tolkien, reminding him that the Clark Hall Beowulf is awaiting his preface before going to print.
Writing again to Tolkien, Beard reminds him that GA&U are still waiting for his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf.
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. GA&U are still waiting for Tolkien's preface to the Clark Hall Beowulf and Stanley Unwin asks when it will be finished....
Tolkien apologizes for his previous behavior and explains that he misunderstood the nature of the requested contribution for the book Beowulf. He expres...
Stanley Unwin writes again to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark Hall Beowulf. They intend to include the whole of Tolkien's preface as they feel his na...
Stanley Unwin writes again on the Clark Hall Beowulf. He says that Tolkien's preface will require 36 pages and if Tolkien agrees, GA&U will begin typese...
Tolkien returns the telegram (provided by Stanley Unwin) confirming his agreement for his preface to the Clark Hall Beowulf to be used, and the renumera...
George Allen & Unwin send Tolkien a cheque for his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf. They remark that he will receive proofs once they are sent from t...
W.N. Beard sends the proofs for the Clark Hall Beowulf for his approval and asks that Tolkien returns them as soon as he can.
Writing to Stanley Unwin on the Clark Hall Beowulf, Tolkien returns the proofs, marked with corrections, noting many errors, most notably with the Old E...
W. N. Beard of GA&U writes to Tolkien assuring him that any corrections to the Clark Hall Beowulf will be handled carefully.
W.N. Beard writes to Wrenn. Tolkien has suggested that 'Finnsburg', be changed to 'Finnesburg' in the title of the book, Beowulf and the Finnesburg Frag...
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien asks for money due to him be made available as he is "in certain difficulties" at present.
Tolkien replies to a letter from his son Michael where he had evidently spoken about his feelings about events of the world, studies, etc. Tolkien is re...
Mary Incledon replies to Hilary. She has been unwell and cannot see people for long. If he wishes to visit her next Friday she would be delighted but if...
Hammond and Scull note that there is a meeting of the English Final Honour School examiners on 13-14 July 1940, on which Warnie writes on the 20 July, g...
Walter Incledon, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald writes upon the death of Mary a couple of days previous. He is concerned about the mortgage in Mary's name a...
Douglas Veale, Registrar of Oxford University, writes to Tolkien, with papers included for him to examine from a student in America. Hammond and Scull n...
Tolkien describes the departure of evacuees, railway workers and their families, who had sought refuge during wartime. Tolkien observes the scenes with ...
Tolkien's son Michael had volunteered in the army, and Tolkien expresses his deep regret about the disruption to his university education due to militar...
Tolkien hopes that Christopher has not had air raids recently. He notes that he is very lonely without him close to home. Tolkien has been busy with ter...
Winifred Husbands from University College, London writes to to Tolkien, apparently informing him that an unauthorized edition of Songs for the Philologi...
Hilary's Aunt Florence, who lives in Victoria BC, Canada, writes offering sympathies for the current situation in Europe. Letters are taking between thr...
Very brief note from Polar Bear telling the children that Father Christmas says "O.K." with a correction by Father Christmas who actually said "all righ...
Polar Bear writes a short note to Priscilla. He is glad she is back, and says that messages arrived to him on Saturday that the Tolkien house was empty....
Father Christmas writes wishing Priscilla a Merry Christmas. He asks her to send his love to Christopher. He says that thye are having a hard time, and ...
After addressing overdue correspondence, Tolkien mentions resuming work on his sequel to The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, but anticipates the impendin...
To son Michael, Tolkien describes the dreary and busy time with foul weather, shares a humorous incident involving snuff at a pub, mentions committee wo...
Tolkien sends Christopher some money, and reminds him that it is important to remember birthdays, especially his mother’s. Tolkien then goes on to rem...
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up "Hobbit" and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
Tolkien says that he has neglected Christopher of late. He briefly mentions a trip out with Warnie Lewis and ‘Honest Humphrey’ Harvard. He and Micha...
In a comprehensive letter, J.R.R. Tolkien reflects on relationships between men and women, addressing physical, friendly, and romantic dimensions. He de...
Tolkien’s second son Michael evidently has informed his parents of his attachment to Joan Griffiths, a nurse at the Worcester Royal Infirmary, and Tol...
Bond informs Tolkien that some of his students enjoyed his lectures on Beowulf during the last term.
Identifying more with his Suffield heritage than his Tolkien name, Tolkien expresses a deep connection to Worcestershire, considering it "home" due to h...
Tolkien writes in reply to John Waller, editor of the publication Kingdom Come, a literary magazine in Oxford. Waller had written asking Tolkien if he h...
In a letter to his son Michael, Tolkien expresses his struggles with writing due to constant rain and increased responsibilities. He sympathizes with go...
B.E.C. Davis of Westfield College, University of London writes to Tolkien to thank him for organizing for his students to use the English Faculty Librar...
Sometime during Autumn 1941, Tolkien replies to questions from W.J.B. Owen of Bangor University, North Wales, on queries of the Old English poem the 'Wa...
Tolkien reflects on his time in Leeds from 1920 to 1925, associating it with Gordon and expressing gratitude for his kindness and encouragement. The aut...
Father Christmas is pleased that Priscilla wrote to him this year. He describes events at the North Pole and a great battle between Goblins, snowboys, P...
Tolkien is asked at a English Faculty Board on 13 March 1942 to write to Mrs. George S. Gordon to offer their condolences on the death of her husband.
Tolkien notes his pleasure at receiveing letters from readers. He mentions his mythology and remarks that he has nearly finished a second book on hobbit...
A letter to Onions thanking him for his criticisms and how they were useful in making changes, hoping that Onions finds 'improvement in the papers'. The...
Noted in The War of the Ring, p. 40, and in Chronology, p. 849 is mention to a letter sent to Tolkien on which he wrote on the rear a "draft of a passag...
Basil Blackwell writes to Tolkien, offering his delight at the translation on Pearl which Tolkien had loaned him. He asks if Tolkien would be willing to...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien remarking that the London bookseller, Foyles, will publish The Hobbit as part of its Children's Book Club. He notes furt...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for the note from Stanley Unwin and discusses the progress of the sequel to The Hobbit that he has been working on since 193...
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter of 7 December remarking that he is looking to see what corrections have been included in the reprint of The Ho...
Writing to Priscilla, Father Christmas mentions that Polar Bear could not find a letter from her this year. He also says that has been no trouble with t...
Forged letter purporting to be from 1943 (dated by an internal reference to Priscilla being fourteen) describing how Tolkien wrote the Lord of the Rings...
Tolkien writes a letter to J.L.N. O’Loughlin. He is currently organising courses for the Navy and Air Force cadets. At a board meeting which Tolkien d...
Tolkien sends letters in mid March to various people who will be directors and tutors to cadets at Oxford to find out what date (25, 26, or 27 March) wo...
Basil Blackwell sends Tolkien some proof copies of Pearl to be corrected as Tolkien has time. He remarks that he is still hopeful that Tolkien will writ...
Tolkien expresses sympathy for Lewis' illness and suggests the possibility of meeting on Wednesdays while discussing the challenges hindering their meet...
Writing to C.S. Lewis, Tolkien critiques views on Christian marriage and divorce, pointing out what he sees as a confusion in the argument presented in ...
A wartime postcard from Tolkien to the Cairo poet Alan Rook, contrasting his own literary inactivity – necessitated by the war effort – with the wor...
George Allen & Unwin send Tolkien a royalty statement for 1942 and remark that binding issues have delayed the latest printing of The Hobbit.
After sending Tolkien proofs of Pearl Basil Blackwell writes again reminding Tolkien that he is yet to send the corrected proofs back to him. He asks To...
George Allen & Unwin send to Tolkien two copies of the Foyles' Children's Book Club edition of The Hobbit.
Tolkien was glad to get Christopher's letter, he had been waiting to write, needing his new address. He mentions the weather, and fruits which are growi...
Tolkien wrote this long letter to two schoolgirls, Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke who were both very enthusiastic about hobbits, in reply to their quest...
Tolkien details a visit to Collegiate Church and describes the building. He then remarks on the people buried there and gives some historical context.
Christopher had apparently been having a bad week, and Tolkien writes with his sympathies. He says to not spend “precious time” on letter writing, t...
Tolkien has organized the next R.N.-R.A.F. course, he will have around 40 cadets and has to attend the Passing Out Parade of the R.N. tomorrow. He is al...
Basil Blackwell again writes to Tolkien to remind him that he needs the manuscripts returned for Pearl. He remarks that he needs to sort Tolkien's accou...
Tolkien finally replies to Basil Blackwell about Pearl. He offers excuses to why he has not yet completed the work. He also includes a cheque to cover h...
Tolkien asks how Christopher has been getting on with flight training, he says that he has been very busy with letters and chores, but did manage to hea...
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks that has heard C.S. Lewis reading from his new translation of Aeneid, in rhymed alexandrines.
Basil Blackwell writes, thanking Tolkien for his cheque. He also reiterates his hope that Tolkien can turn to and complete the work on Pearl.
Tolkien writes a personal testimony for the daughter of his friend Henry Cecil Jennings.
Hilary's Aunt Florence writes from Victoria BC, Canada to wish them all well for the Christmas period. She talks on world events, and notes her regret t...
Tolkien describes how trees look at this time of year, and mentions that he will be meeting C.E.B. Joad the next night for dinner, hosted by C.S. Lewis.
Tolkien describes meeting C.E.B. Joad the night before at dinner with C.S. Lewis, and talks a bit about Joad's visit to Russia. The dinner is described ...
This three page letter is held at the Wade but no details of it are known. The Charles Williams collection at the Wade states this is "A "Closed Letter"...
Tolkien had not managed to send Christopher his pipe yesterday, and sends it on to him with this letter. He and Edith received a long letter and were ha...
Tolkien reports that he is tired, but has managed to get things done in his usual “programme”. He notes that he has heard two chapters from Charles ...
Tolkien reflects on the challenging and disheartening circumstances of the time, including the impact of war, propaganda, and the bleak conditions of li...
Writing to son Christopher, Tolkien reflects on the challenges and monotony of daily life during a turbulent period, expressing a sense of isolation due...
Tolkien writes to Christopher after hearing from his brother Michael that Christopher had been unwell again. Tolkien updates him on home life, with Edit...
Tolkien receives a message via the International Red Cross from Simonne d'Erdenne. At that time, beginning in April 1942, Nazi Germany refused to relay ...
Tolkien sends the last of his Father Christmas Letters to Priscilla. He offers some comfort on the War situation and offers his love to all his children...
Tolkien writes about creating The Father Christmas Letters. This handwritten document is not dated or addressed to anyone. It is reproduced in the 2019 ...
Tolkien replies to a letter from Christopher, he is glad to hear from him and notes his instructions for his tobacco. He has prayed constantly for his s...
Tolkien sends notices out to people involved with the Oxford cadets courses. He includes details on lectures and classes and various other details relat...
Tolkien offers Christopher advice on prayer and to remember his guardian angel. He reminds him to use "praises", and says of them "if you have these by ...
Tolkien apologizes to Christopher for the delay in writing and shares details of recent activities, including giving lectures, discussing Cardiff with G...
Tolkien has not written for a week and speaks of his “shame of letting a whole week go”. He has been praying for Christopher constantly though. Tolk...
No details of this letter are known except for the note in #TCGLetter1033 that says Tolkien now knows that Christopher had received the "fotobriefs" in ...
Tolkien notes the lack of humorous anecdotes due to limited social interactions in recent weeks. He also mentions an encounter with Lewis, who is energe...
No details from this letter are currently known and it is only noted in Tolkien's letter of 27 March, 1944 as "airgraph FS 10".
Tolkien says they have received many letters from Christopher, he will feel much better when he knows that he has received theirs. Tolkien notes that he...
Tolkien had an outing, seeing the two Lewis brothers and having lunch with C.S. Lewis. During the meeting, Lewis read part of a new story.
Tolkien recounts recent events, including a cycle ride to Pembroke, a train journey to Birmingham, and a visit to his hometown. During the train journey...
Tolkien shares his commitment to completing The Lord of the Rings, expressing the challenges of re-reading and researching while working on the adventur...
Tolkien writes to Christopher and mentions him sitting in his garden on a beautiful night around 2 a.m. Tolkien had struggled that day with a chapter an...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a recently received airletter, shares updates about writing progress on The Lord of the Rings and mentions spending time...
Tolkien writes to Christopher. No details are currently known. This letter falls between two of Tolkien's 'FS' letters. FS16 (wrongly given by Tolkien a...
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving a batch of letters and, discusses the distressing but unsurprising uncensored accounts of Christopher's experiences, ...
Tolkien gives Christopher an update on his progess on The Two Towers, the second book of The Lord of the Rings. He has read the second chapter, "Passage...
Tolkien had received an airletter from Christopher that morning and he read it while enjoying breakfast in bed. He describes the events of St. George's ...
Tolkien writes of his longing and concern for Christopher in the midst of war, reflecting on human suffering and the senselessness of conflict. Despite ...
Having read another chapter to C.S. Lewis, Tolkien is now writing the next, and will send Christopher copies as soon as possible.
Tolkien responds to Christopher's letters and acknowledges the challenges and frustrations of life in the military camp during the war. He empathizes wi...
Tolkien completed a fourth new chapter titled 'Faramir,' which received approval from C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams. He notes that he attended church ...
Tolkien spent a morning writing The Lord of the Rings and is now in sight of Minas Morghul. He has been gardening in the midday heat. he expresses his r...
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien updates him on his progress writing The Lord of the Rings. He had needed to sort the study, and "attend to business". He...
Tolkien apologizes for the lapse in correspondence. He gives an update on writing of The Lord of the Rings. He reads for Lewis and Williams and both men...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for the letters he has received from Christopher and briefly mentions an inclination to envy his time in the hills. Tolkien ...
Writing to Christopher with an update on recent happenings. He had dinner in college and notes that "the three old gents" were very easy to talk to. Lew...
Tolkien writes to Christopher. FS29 in his series of FS letters. No details of this letter are currently known.
Tolkien acknowledges receiving Christopher's air letter and briefly mentions the weather. He provide updates on recent activities, including efforts in ...
This entry is a placeholder for two of Tolkien's FS letters to his son Christopher. Mentioned in Chronology, "12–26 June 1944 During this period Tolki...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien asking of he could meet his son Rayner who is serving as a Cadet in the Navy at Oxford. He also encloses a cheque for £...
Tolkien had gone to bed early, and stayed there for nearly 10 hours, which he says has made him feel “worn out”. He mentions that he had received a ...
Stanley Unwin had sent Tolkien a large cheque as payment of royalties on The Hobbit, and mentions that Rayner is now at Oxford reading English. Tolkien ...
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS34. No details are currently known about the letter.
Tolkien writes to Christopher at some point during this timeframe. No details are currently known. This letter would fall between Tolkien's FS34 and FS35.
Tolkien opens this letter by mentioning that he is writing this letter using his new "midget type" typewriter cartridges. These could be interchanged an...
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien gives news of C.S. Lewis and his need for an operation to remove some shrapnel, which he says must have been in his arm ...
Stanley writes to tell Tolkien that if paper were available they would immediately reprint The Hobbit as it would sell well. Stanley apologizes for not ...
Stanley Unwin informs Tolkien that they have found a copy of the reprinted Hobbit and it has been sent to him.
Tolkien sends Christopher the typescripts of the first three chapters of Book IV of The Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS 37. No details of the letter are known.
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS 38 but no details of the letter are currently known.
Tolkien discusses the name Sam Gamgee, agreeing with Christopher's opinion and explaining the choice to emphasize the character's comic, peasantry, and ...
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 40 but no further details are known.
Tolkien reports in a newly published portion that he had received Christopher's airletter of 24 July. He says that his day on Friday was “grim”, as ...
An unknown member of the George Allen & Unwin staff writes to Tolkien. Two more copies of The Hobbit have been found.
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 42 but no further details are known.
Tolkien responds to Christopher's letters, encouraging openness about details of his life. He offers support for navigating challenges and express the n...
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 44 but no further details are known.
Tolkien reflects on the cultural landscape, comparing Kroonstad, seen as a genuine product of their culture, with Jo'burg's aspirations. He expresses co...
Basil Blackwell writes yet again to Tolkien on the matter of his translation of Pearl, which Tolkien has still not returned. Blackwell had asked about b...
Tolkien replies immediately to #TCGLetter2414 in relation to his translation of Pearl. He does not feel taken advantage of and remarks on the introduction.
Priscilla has been struggling with The Ballad of the White Horse and trying to parts of it to her has made Tolkien realize it isn't as good as he rememb...
Tolkien sends a postcard with greetings to Selby. He also notes that Priscilla, his daughter, is typing early chapters of The Lord of the Rings, which h...
Tolkien writes to G.E. Selby, a family friend agreeing to act as a referee for his application to a post. In a newly published extract, of this previous...
Tolkien says that he has now seen Rayner twice. He regrets that he has not been able to help him but remarks on what a fine young man he is. He hopes th...
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving an airgraph before Christopher's departure to Standerton. He discusses the progress of the chapters and promises to s...
Lewis thanks Brady for a review of his works, and talks about Tolkien, who he describes as "a very great man". "His published works (both imaginative & ...
Engaged in revision, Tolkien reflects on the chapter "King of the Golden Hall" and finds it to be rather good with the perspective of time.
Tolkien noted this airgraph (FS 53) in his letter of 6 October but no other details are currently known.
In a newly published portion of this letter Tolkien remarks on what a wonderful week it has been for letters from Christopher. He hopes that letters fro...
Tolkien has discovered a severe problem in timing for events in The Lord of the Rings, and will require much work to fix. He has sent a copy of Leaf by ...
In this letter to the Evening Despatch of Birmingham, Michael specifies that he does not belong to any particular political party and that his is an int...
The timeline for The Lord of the Rings is giving Tolkien trouble, but with some small changes to the map and a few extra days here and there seem to hav...
Tolkien has just seen a "skywide armada" fly overhead, but thinks he can mention it in his letter because it will be long gone before any risk of the ne...
Tolkien quotes part of this letter from John Barrow in #TCGLetter176
Tolkien sends the last two chapters of the fourth book of The Lord of the Rings, and quotes from a letter he has received from a fan who has read The Ho...
A very short excerpt (three sentences) where Tolkien mentions the fading of the current year into "dull grey mournful darkness", and wonders what the ne...
Writing to Charles Brady, C. S. Lewis makes mention of Tolkien and his Hobbit books. He mentions that a sequel to the Hobbit will soon be finished. He d...
Tolkien was interested to hear that Christopher had run into “another of the Unwins”, Harold Unwin, a.k.a Chris. He says that Rayner was at Blackwel...
In regards to Christopher's mentioning of his guardian angel , Tolkien worried that Christopher's was very much needed. which reminded him of a vision h...
Tolkien had seen C.S. Lewis and he notes how Lewis had been interested in the “angelic question” which Tolkien had mentioned to him in an earlier le...
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving several letters from Christopher and comments on the amusing account of the Wings ceremony. He appreciates the mentio...
Tolkien sends a small consignment of "The Ring," consisting of the last two chapters that have been written and the end of the Fourth Book. The hero is ...
Tolkien says that he gave two lectures yesterday, which was an “appalling” day of weather but that he had an excellent morning “at the Bird” wit...
Tolkien opens with the news that he has finished his Beowulf lectures . He has neglected academic matters in favour of working out the time-schemes and ...
Tolkien has given himself an early Christmas gift in the form of a new pruner for the garden, and gives a humorous description of his cycling to the gar...
In a newly published portion, Tolkien says that today is the last day for Christmas post arriving in time for Christmas and laments the way the holiday ...
Tolkien expresses joy that Christopher enjoyed the next three chapters of "The Ring" and provides information about the schedule for sending the remaini...
Tolkien is happy to get so many letters from Christopher, and is very pleased that the third batch of Ring material has gotten to Christopher and that h...
Tolkien says he is struggling with letters, many of which he should have written at Christmas. He complains that the weather is bitterly cold and he can...
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
Tolkien continues to talk about the movie he and Edith saw remarking that his “mind and heart” are still thinking of it. He says that it has the qua...
Tolkien says that he is still “under the influence” of the movie he and Edith saw a week ago and continues to talk about religion, God, and other as...
Tolkien has been enjoying reading Stenton's Anglo-Saxon England, and wishes he had a time-machine. Tolkien tells Christopher that this is the history "o...
Tolkien describes some domestic plumbing troubles that prevented him from meeting up with Lewis in the morning, but the eventually managed to make it to...
In this long letter, Tolkien mentions derivations of "convent" and "Coventry". Published in The Catholic Herald, 23 February 1945, and extracts from it ...
Tolkien describes a letter he has written to the Catholic Herald, in rebuttal to someone who thinks Coventry is derived from Convent.
Tolkien says that he is finding lectures hard work, and that he is tired. He is surprised that he does not have written notes for Beowulf beyond approx....
Tolkien discusses Chaucer, saying he had “little learning”, some Latin skill but lacked the talent for prose. Also on this day Tolkien's letter to t...
Tolkien writes to Christopher while in working with Cadets at the Taylorian . He is missing his son and wishes he could see him. He gives an update on t...
Tolkien expresses deep concern about Rayner, who is off to war, and mentions that his son Christopher has become great friends with Chris Unwin. One of ...
A short excerpt from Tolkien to Christopher after he had been on leave. He describes seeing him again as like having an old tooth with a "dulled ache". ...
Tolkien expresses sympathy to Ms. Williams and her son, and his grief over the loss of her husband Charles Williams. The transcript in Carpenter's Lette...
Stephen Bone, the writer and painter, writes to Tolkien. He remarks on his children's enjoyment of The Hobbit and asks Tolkien if he would send him a ma...
Tolkien remarks that he would be comforted if Christopher could be re-commissioned out of the R.A.F. Christopher had recently returned from service. He ...
Maegraith had sent Tolkien a packet, which he had not acknowledged, he explains he had waited in the hope to have something to say about it but May had ...
The Civil Defense was staging a stand-down parade Tolkien felt was mockery, because "Wars are always lost".
Tolkien expresses profound horror and disbelief at the news of atomic bombs, describing the scientists involved as "lunatic physicists" and condemning t...
This letter was found in the National Archives. Tolkien is applying to the British Council for Simonne d'Ardenne to be allowed to return to Oxford for a...
Tolkien writes to his son Christopher, informing him that the Inklings propose to consider him a permanent member. An extract from the letter appears in...
Tolkien took a new position, the Merton Professorship of English Language and Literature, and remarks on the occasion.
In a follow-up to Tolkien's letter, #TCGLetter1034, Tolkien mentions that "it would be of great satisfaction" if Professor d'Ardenne could be granted a ...
Tolkien and the dons met, chatted and had dinner among other activities.
Tolkien discusses his support for Sharrock's application for academic posts, and mentions C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams.
The name of J.A.W. Bennett had come up in relation to the still unfinished Clarendon Chaucer. Sisam is inclined to leave it though as Tolkien is still a...
Tolkien sends Selby a postcard, discussing the erroneous reports that he has retired. He and Edith had recently been on vacation. Tolkien expresses the ...
Tolkien writes to Sir Stanley Unwin, who had just been knighted. He asked about Farmer Giles. And remarks on his progress to The Hobbit sequel among oth...
Tolkien writes to his friend, Przemyslaw Mroczkowski, about C.S. Lewis and a potential move to Oxford. He mentions the cost of living in Oxford, and rem...
Tolkien expresses delight at the prospect of publishing "Farmer Giles of Ham" but cites academic commitments as a hindrance to providing more material p...
Horus Engels wanted to produce a German translation of The Hobbit and sent letters to Tolkien on the matter. In this response to something Tolkien had s...
Tolkien mentions receiving letters from Horus Engels regarding a German translation, and while Engels doesn't explicitly propose himself as a translator...
Tolkien writes to Adrian after he had visited Cambridge. Nothing else is known and the letter is undated but he visited Cambs in 1947. The original lett...
Tolkien writes an eight page letter to A.W. Riddle, discussing in very deep detail split infinitives and the evolution of written and colloquially spoke...
Writing to Gilbert Murray, Tolkien with regret notes that he is powerless to help with the task of securing employment of one J.C. Ghosh, an Indian stud...
Tolkien notes to Stanley Unwin that he has received the agreement for Farmer Giles of Ham, he would also send revised manuscripts for it in July and he ...
Tolkien sends back the revised manuscript of Farmer Giles of Ham for publication. He has carefully gone through it, making alterations to improve both s...
Tolkien responded to Rayner Unwin's comments about The Fellowship of the Ring. He talks about allegory as well as other literary illusions. Tolkien ment...
Tolkien provides information about the origin and authorship of the riddles included in their work. He clarifies that most of the riddles are their orig...
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in responding to a letter sent in July and explains that he has been preoccupied with philology due to academic commitm...
Tolkien writes to Jennifer with some advice on an Oxford College, and errors in The Hobbit. A description of the letter appeared in The J.R.R. Tolkien C...
In response to Tolkien's letter from the prior week Unwin lets Tolkien know that the Hobbit corrections have been passed on to the production department...
Writing to a young fan, Rosemary, Tolkien says he is yet to finish his new book about Bilbo and his nephew. . He worries that it is so long that the pub...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin with regard to his visit of Merton College's estates in Cambridge, Leicestershire, and Lincolnshire between 22 and 25 Se...
Tolkien writes to Mr Riddle about languages word changes over time (including the S.I. or Split Infinitive), his father (Arthur Tolkien), Varsity, footb...
Following on from his letter in 1945, Bone returns a speciman page from The Lord of the Rings and discusses it. We currently have no record of Tolkien's...
Katharine Farrer had written to Tolkien, in runes, asking if he would sign her copy of The Hobbit. Tolkien replies to her letter in runes. He says that ...
Farrer replies to Tolkien, again in runes and says that she would welcome a key to the Dwarvish alphabet. This was written on a postcard that accompanie...
Tolkien sends thanks for his time with Knox in Scotland. Tolkien had given his lecture 'On Fairy-Stories' to the University of St Andrews in 1939. Notin...
Mother M. Agnes, a former pupil from Leeds and now at Maryfield College, Dublin, writes to Tolkien asking if he recalls her from that time at Leeds. She...
Tolkien had received a parcel, he thanks O'Loughlin and confirms it arrived safely. Tolkien has been very busy and had flu recently, hence his delayed r...
Tolkien writes a two page letter to Rosemary, telling her about him, being busy and unwell, hence the delay in reply. Wishes her the best for 1948 and m...
Tolkien and Lewis corresponded about what was being read aloud at an Inklings meeting. This was part of a larger conversation surrounding what they were...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Tolkien expresses pleasure that Brogan enjoyed "The Hobbit" and mentions his ongoing work on a longer piece set in the same world, providing details abo...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade Center. Noted as "(collection) L-Allen (date) May 12, 1948 (sender) Christopher Tolkien (rec...
Tolkien opens this letter with apologies for his delayed reply. He says that he must have appeared ungrateful, but not only was he grateful, he was exci...
GA&U had decided that Milein Cosman would illustrate Farmer Giles of Ham, a point that Tolkien did not approve of. He likened her artwork to that of Top...
In reply to Tolkien's letter of 5 August (see #TCGLetter268) Ronald Eames says that George Allen & Unwin have decided to not use the illustrations of Mi...
Ronald Eames writes various artists, among them is Pauline Baynes, a young artist who will go on to illustrate many Tolkien books and become a life-long...
A two page letter written in response to a Max Beerbohm scholar who asked what Tolkien thought of Beerbohm. Tolkien writes that his cartoons amuse him, ...
Success! declares Tolkien. He has completed The Lord of the Rings and having been read by Rayner Unwin is approved. He does not think it will make any m...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Roland Suffield, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald, writes to Hilary wishing them all the best for Christmas. He encloses some postal orders for the children. ...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Tolkien writes to Hugh Brogan using runes to wish him a happy Christmas. Hammond/Scull also note that Tolkien also sent Brogan another letter with menti...
Hammond/Scull note in their entry for Christmas 1948 mention a second letter from Tolkien to Brogan with mention of a visit planned for March the follow...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Tolkien sends a rushed note saying that he will act immediately. On behalf of what it is not known.
This letter, co-signed by Tolkien and other members of the Newman Society to the Times, was in support of Cardinal Mindszenty who had been arrested in H...
Tolkien declares to GA&U that he does not have the time to retype Farmer Giles of Ham, nor does he feel that it is required. He remarks that the typing ...
Tolkien notes that he has a shory story to be published shortly, Farmer Giles of Ham and says that he has completed The Lord of the Rings.
It has been decided that Pauline Baynes will now illustrate Farmer Giles of Ham. Tolkien is delighted with this news.
Hugh Brogan's mother, Olwen, writes to Tolkien on the matter of him visiting them in Cambridge. She says he is very welcome and suggests the 20th (Sunda...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Henry Willink, a colleague from Magdalene College, Cambridge, writes to Tolkien giving him an update on his wife's ill-health and to offer his admiratio...
Tolkien replies stating he is very pleased at the illustrations for Farmer Giles of Ham. He says that after seeing the images, his friends, "very justly...
Magdalen Tolkien writes to her son, Gabriel. She reports that Paul, his younger brother, has won three prizes at school in the sports day. She reports o...
Tolkien discusses the progress of Farmer Giles and hints that the final draft of Lord of the Rings could be done something with.
Tolkien writing to Miss Flint apologizes for his delay in replying. He had been away but upon his return had much delayed business to attend to which in...
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
Following on from his previous letter (#TCGLetter1091), Tolkien apologises for being unhelpful to Miss Flint for so long. He believes that her revised t...
Two page handwritten letter in which JRRT congratulates Smith on the Quain election and writes on behalf of a student named Mrs. Pietrkiewicz, maiden na...
Lewis writes to Tolkien after reading The Lord of the Rings, giving Tolkien high praise and feedback. The entire letter is published in volume two of Le...
Tolkien writes to Mr Wilkinson and sends an inscribed copy of Farmer Giles of Ham. The book is dedicated to Mr Wilkinson who urged Tolkien to publish it.
Tolkien notes the progress with having two large books, one being The Lord of the Rings, published. It has been accepted and is almost finished. Hammond...
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.
A two page letter (single 5.5 x 7 inch sheet, both sides) in response to Mrs. Mitchison's praise of Farmer Giles of Ham. Tolkien mentions that FG was re...
Tolkien writes to Baynes making mention that Lewis had been in touch and wishes her a Happy Christmas. She (Baynes) is illustrating Lewis's Lion, Witch ...
Pauline Baynes had written to say she was meeting with C.S. Lewis on the 31st. Tolkien replies that he and his family would also like to meet her if pos...
Baynes replied to Tolkien's letter that she might not have time to see him. He left a letter with Lewis as they were meeting on New Year's Eve. He would...
Tolkien spent some time in the 1950s in Ireland and while there he stayed with the Hogan family. The father, Jeremiah worked with Tolkien during his vis...
No details of this letter are known beyond the auction details. Phillips, Oxford, from 20 October 1988: ALS from Sir Lionel Whitby, Master of Downing Co...
Tolkien had "dumped" the manuscript of The Lord of the Rings on Milton Waldman just as he was going on holiday, and Tolkien felt bad burdoning him with ...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, mentioning various topics but chief among them is The Lord of the Rings. Stranded without a publisher, and the work now...
Tolkien compares his two great stories the War of the Ring and the War of the Jewels and remarks on the Farmer Giles sales figures.
Unwin wants to break up Tolkien's "monstrous Saga", and Tolkien hopes Unwin will let the project go so Tolkien can publish The Lord of the Rings and The...
Sir Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of how to publish the Lord of the Rings. He does not see a possibility of one volume and gives some fi...
Relations between Tolkien and Allen & Unwin had begun to become strained as Tolkien felt that A&U were not open to publishing his work as he would have ...
Tolkien was sent proofs for a new edition of The Hobbit and remarks on how The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are interlinked. He was not expecting hi...
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade and consists of two pages.
Writing to Hugh Brogan, Tolkien notes that he does not know what is happening with The Lord of the Rings which he had hoped would be published this year...
Tolkien writes about the new revised edition of The Hobbit.
Tolkien sends in a new version of CH 5 of the Hobbit.
Tolkien in a letter to Hugh Brogan gives him some updates on his health. He also says that “Drama” is a “bore”.
Tolkien writes to the Swedish scholar Helge Kökeritz, at Yale, USA, to invite him to give two lectures at Oxford. Tolkien was concerned about the payme...
Hugh Brogan writes to Tolkien and remarks that it has been a couple of years since he joined Hugh and his family and that he is always welcome if he is ...
Tolkien replies to a letter from a Mrs. Tolkien in the USA and tells her various information about his family history. They are likely third cousins as ...
Touching on poems about dragons, Beowulf, and fellow Inkling C. S. Lewis. This letter to Prof. Henry Bosley Woolf thanks him for sending a copy of a pap...
Dan Davin, Kenneth Sisam's successor at the OUP writes to Tolkien about retrieving his material on the Clarendon Chaucer. When the two had met a week pr...
Julien S. Huxley sends a short note to Tolkien saying he will be in the country for the next meeting of the Ad Eundem Dinner, of which Tolkien attends o...
Tolkien writes to Dan Davin of the Oxford University Press (OUP) saying that he has returned any material that be useful. The material related to the fa...
Dan Davin replies to Tolkien with thanks for returning the material he had from the Clarendon Chaucer. he remarks that Tolkien is welcome to revisit any...
Tolkien wrote this letter to Milton Waldman. Tolkien wanted his publisher, George Allen & Unwin, to publish both The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarill...
This letter of which excerpts were published in The Lore and Language of Schoolchildren concerned the etymology of the word 'faynights'. After it was pu...
Interesting and lengthy letter to Prof. Tolkien on a possible Chaucer holograph. Nothing more on this 3 page letter is known but it has been sold a numb...
At a Committee meeting for the W.P. Ker Lecture, it was decided to invite Professor Tolkien to give a talk at the 1952-1953 event.
Tolkien had been asked to give a Lecture at the University of Glasgow, which he accepted. He gave the lecture on the 15th April 1953 for the W. P. Ker M...
Tolkien writes to his son John about a meal that he had with Lewis, which they called the 'ham-feast'.
Tolkien says that Edith is much happier but for the terrible noise in the street. He says that they will move into the room he currently uses as an offi...
Tolkien writes to Arthur Humphry House (1908-1955), Senior Research Fellow at Wadham College about Merton College business and his difficulties in arran...
C.S. Lewis writes to the 'Grittletonians' recommending Tolkien's The Hobbit.
Rayner Unwin had written to Tolkien about 'Errantry' and this gave Tolkien an opportunity to see if he could get The Lord of the Rings published by Geor...
A short note from Tolkien to Miss Moore explaining that he has forgotten to enter the date to which her Viva Voce had been removed.
In 1937, at the urging of his publishers, Tolkien began writing "a new Hobbit." Due to his full-time academic position, progress was slow, and he abando...
Tolkien writes a letter to Moira Sayer concerning the second half of The Lord of the Rings. Quotes appear in Christie's 20th Century Books and Manuscrip...
Tolkien expresses his eagerness to publish The Lord of the Rings as soon as possible. Tolkien plans to spend some days correcting the manuscript at his ...
Tolkien writes to wish Michael a happy birthday for tomorrow. He is busy with work but offers his prayers and love to his son. He also mentions the arri...
Tolkien expresses regret for producing a substantial work like The Lord of the Rings during challenging times. He expresses gratitude for the recipient'...
Rayner Unwin writing to Tolkien gives him the welcome news that they have decided to publish The Lord of the Rings. They will take the unusual approach ...
Tolkien replies to Rayner's letter and mentions his pleasure at the news of Allen & Unwin's decision to publish The Lord of the Rings.
Writing to a Mr. Burns. Tolkien refers to a Professor Kennedy's book of Anglo-Saxon verse and a Miss Kirchberger who had sought Tolkien's advice on her ...
Tolkien belatedly thanks Sanford for sending him a copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A Prose Translation that had been published by Golden Cocker...
No details of this letter are known beyond the auction details. From Phillips, Oxford, from 20 October 1988: 2pp. typed letter and typed article from R....
Tolkien remarks to Basil Blackwell on the merits and shortcomings of a linguistic text being published in the near future. He points out that had he bee...
Writing to his son Michael and daughter-in-law Joan, Tolkien gives an update on their move to a new house, to 76 Sandfield Road. He notes that the start...
Tolkien has not supplied Sayer with a copy of The Lord of the Rings as yet.
Tolkien notes how it has been some time since he wrote, he has been meaning to but has been getting his affairs in order with his house move. He says th...
An undated letter from later in March contains a new plea for help, this time in writing a publicity blurb for The Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien writes to Rayner Unwin about the challenges he's faced leading up to the contract day for The Lord of the Rings. He is also concerned about Edit...
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in sending the revised manuscript for The Lord of the Rings. His move was incredibly challenging. Tolkien has finally c...
Advert from The Evening Times (later Glasgow times) for the W.P. Ker Lecture by J.R.R. Tolkien, to be given on the 15th April 1953.
Tolkien writing to Norman and Lena Davis begins by saying that he does not know how to call Davis, now that he has spent time with him and ate his “br...
Tolkien writes to George Sayer apologising for not thanking Sayer for his letter. Tolkien had received books late, missing a contract deadline. Tolkien ...
A letter from Simonne d'Ardenne addressed to the 'Faculty' dated May 27, 1953, proposing J.R.R. Tolkien's candidacy for an honorary doctorate with a bio...
Tolkien asks Rayner Unwin for an update on galleys for The Lord of the Rings. He hopes that there will be little work as the copy was “pretty good”....
Tolkien writes to Allen & Unwin asking if there will be opportunity for the book to be reviewed. He wants C.S. Lewis especially to be able to review the...
Writing to Dan Davin, Sisam describes Tolkien as "a rogue." He bemoans Tolkien's delays on a number of titles, remarking that Tolkien "has had Middle En...
Tolkien writes to P.H. Newby of the BBC. Newby had been negotiating to broadcast some of Tolkien's translation of Sir Gawain but pressures meant that he...
Tolkien opens this letter by immediately apologising for using his typewriter. He is having trouble with his hand and is resting it. George had asked To...
Tolkien writing to P.H. Newby of the BBC, apologies for his delay in sending the typescript of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, which he has enclosed wi...
Tolkien advises his student Burchfield about his thesis about Ormulum - the proposed thesis title is remarkably close to a recent German publication tha...
Writing in reply to a letter from Beard (July 16th), Tolkien confirms he has received galleys that were wrongly delivered to his old address at 99 Holyw...
Tolkien expresses his frustration with the galleys of his work, The Lord of the Rings. He finds the process tedious and mentions that the printed versio...
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings and he suggests some titles if it is published in three volumes. He was also concerned about whether the publ...
Eames had written to Tolkien the previous day regarding galleys for The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien replies saying he will return all copies, "if it is l...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for Rayner's visit. He proposes titles for the volumes of The Lord of the Rings and his rationale behind the titles.
Letter discussing galleys of Lord of the Rings as well as Tolkien's translation of Sir Gawain. Although he complains about the lack of a tape recorder, ...
Tolkien writes, reminding Rayner that he will be in London the following day, he hopes Rayner will have time to lunch with him. He will arrive at Museum...
The BBC had expressed a desire to split Sir Gawain into six episodes but Tolkien does not think he can improve the divisions further. But after consider...
Tolkien apologizes for his delay in providing comments on the drawings. He does not think them satisfactory. He says that he should have been more caref...
Tolkien expresses frustration and anxiety over the "maps", as he believed they were an essential part of The Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien writes to P.H. Newby, giving details of his various health issues at present. He is suffering from laryngitis, lumbago, and sciatica. He still h...
Tolkien writes to Rayner, he has been struggling with ill-health through the term and only recently has he been able to deal with “many strands” of ...
Tolkien will bring his copy of the third volume for GA&U to use for costing but says it is yet to be revised and will need to be returned to him. He hop...
Tolkien writing to Rayner says that Volume Two reads “rather well” and notes that the first book contains very few errors. He hopes to arrive at the...
Robert Murray had offered Tolkien some thought on The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien replied that The Lord of the Rings is a Catholic work, describing it as...
Writing to Miss Perry, Tolkien discusses the Lord of the Rings, hoping it will be published in the coming year. He has had ill health and has been very ...
Tolkien thanks Katharine Farrer for her “charity” at a time he is suffering illness. He felt that the Sir Gawain broadcast on BBC Radio was not espe...
GA&U sent Arthur Ransome a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring asking him to review it. Included was a short note: "I am sending you a set of uncorrected...
Tolkien arranges to visit Allen & Unwin in London with the manuscript for The Return of the King.
Tolkien writes to a Mr. Griffiths regarding Cecily Clark's Peterborough Chronicles.
Tolkien writes about corrections to Book III and Book IV.
Tolkien writes to offer his "greatest satisfaction" and "deepest gratitude" for the honour he had been accorded with an honorary doctorate at the Univer...
Tolkien sends by registered post two maps, the 'General Map', and 'Part of the Shire'. Both of these maps were drawn by Christopher Tolkien. Tolkien wil...
Writing to Allen & Unwin, Tolkien says that he has today, sent by registered, the proof for the “General Map” with a second map for 'Part of the Shi...
Tolkien, writing to Allen & Unwin, encloses possible jacket designs, one for The Fellowship of the Ring, and another for The Two Towers. Describing them...
Tolkien sends Allen & Unwin proofs of various pages and notes that included rune for “33” are not good, also “59” which he has previous explaine...
Tolkien has drawn a sketch for Volume III, but says he won't show it to Rayner as it is not constructive to point out the artificial divisions in the vo...
Further to #TCGLetter1438, Tolkien says that p. 33 passes, p. 59 is improved. He has discovered “2 or 3” errors in the runic decoration on the title...
Newby writes to Tolkien asking if an examination of the eighteenth-century Grammarians would make a suitable subject for a talk on the BBC's Third Progr...
Tolkien writes about his use of languages in the book and explains the challenges faced in creating maps for The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the dis...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin regarding Richard Hughes's opinion of The Lord of the Rings. Excerpts appears in Sotheby's Catalogue of Nineteenth Centu...
In reply to a letter from P.H. Newby, Tolkien says that a talk on the Third Programme would be a suitable subject but notes that it would be a controver...
Tolkien is pleased with positive early opinions about his work. He notes his dissatisfaction with the Houghton Mifflin effort, and gives some suggestion...
Tolkien discusses C.S. Lewis and his invitation to Cambridge. Lewis had intitially refused the offer citing family obligations, namely his brothers heal...
Tolkien writes to H.S. Bennett who had written to Tolkien the previous day. He discusses the proposed move by C.S. Lewis to Cambridge. C.S. Lewis would ...
This letter is housed at the Wade Center but no details are currently known of its contents.
Tolkien does not approve of the proofs for the jacket of The Lord of the Rings, which he finds very ugly. He suggests some changes to the design of the ...
Tolkien addresses queries about The Two Towers by Allen and Unwin's head reader. Tolkien found the close reading extraordinary. A large publisher will h...
Tolkien expresses his delight in receiving an advance copy of The Fellowship of the Ring, he finds the jacket much improved and striking, particularly l...
Tolkien remarks on the division of The Lord of the Rings into three volumes, and complains about the 'contemptuous' review of the first volume in the Su...
Tolkien expresses concerns about misprints in The Fellowship of the Ring. He highlights a disagreement over a botanical term, corrected by the printers....
Tolkien writes to his son Michael, telling of the welcome from certain people of his "major work". He suggests that Michael George, his grandson, may en...
Tolkien remarks on the morality of The Lord of the Rings and thanks the Farrer for paying close attention to such matters. He addresses the connections ...
Christina Scull and Wayne Hammond in a blogpost posted an extract of a letter to Nevill Coghill which can be read at
A continuation of a letter dated 29 January that same year about Tolkien's honorary doctorate. He also confirms he will gladly accept the invitation to ...
Tolkien expresses his relief that the critiques were better than feared. He acknowledges the disadvantage of issuing the work in three parts, with criti...
Tolkien shares thoughts on the fascination of The Lord of the Rings. The author hopes to include an upcoming note on translation. The letter ends with t...
Tolkien is unable to submit any of the Appendices. The delay is attributed to promises made in Volume I, which are proving very difficult to meet.
Tolkien replies to Hugh Brogan who had written on the subject of The Fellowship of the Ring.
Tolkien opens by saying he has been ill or else would have replied to Miss Perry's letter of 10 August. He mentions a Mr. Lambert and that authors shoul...
Tolkien discusses the English dialogue in The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth, Beorhthelm's Son that should be used in the BBC Radio programme. In the 2023 rev...
Tolkien responds to Mrs. Mitchison's kind letter and her generous and perceptive review of The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the complexity of the wor...
Tolkien responds to Mrs Mitchison's about the concept of "magic" in his works, particularly in The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien acknowledges that it is a ...
Tolkien responds to a reader's extensive analysis and questions about The Lord of the Rings. Amongst many topics, Tolkien discusses the unique fate of H...
Daphne Castell (later Cloke) interviewed Tolkien circa 1966. This letter, along with three others and an annotated transcript of her notes for the inter...
Briggs very much enjoyed reading The Fellowship of the Ring and asks if the next book will be published by Christmas. She had issues with the changes to...
Tolkien was delighted to receive a letter from Mr. John Staniforth referring to himself as a "sexagenarian". Tolkien cites his noticing of the songs in ...
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.
Tolkien was sent a letter on the 11th October and replied to some queries about Gollum and the publication date of The Two Towers.
This letter (written and sent from Dublin) again concerns the festivities of Tolkien's reception of an honorary doctorate at the University of Liège on...
Briggs thanks Tolkien for his reply (#TCGLetter1712) to her first letter (#TCGLetter1715). She looks forward to The Two Towers and The Return of the Kin...
Tolkien addresses several topics related to The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien discusses the characters Smeagol and Gandalf (including the nature of the Ist...
Tolkien remarks on the reception to The Fellowship of the Ring by his colleagues. A photograph of the first half of the first page was included in Chris...
Tolkien writes to inform Heppenstall that he is unable to attend the rehearsal and the recording of the radio play for The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth whic...
Tolkien replies to Miss Perry who had sent Tolkien a favourable review of The Lord of the Rings. He was very pleased and discusses it along with other p...
Tolkien expresses regret for not having written or offered help during the recipient's difficult times, and suggests the possibility of contributing fun...
Please see Hammond/Scull, Chronology, p. 469 (SUMMARY FORTHCOMING)
Hugh Brogan writes again to Tolkien and offers him some criticisms of the archaic style used in parts of The Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien briefly mentions having only had time to glance at the Houghton Mifflin 'jacket' information. He thinks it was written by someone who hasn't rea...
Tolkien writes on the matter of the BBC's radio play of The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth.
George Allen & Unwin offer a review copy of The Fellowship of the Ring for possible translation into Italian by Arnolda Monadori Editors. They mention t...
Tolkien apologizes to Rayner for not having sent off the "main matter" earlier, and he details the hectic year he has had. "More than any one person cou...
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore ask for a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers to decide if they wish to print an Italian translation.
Writing to the Italian publisher, Arnoldo Mondadori Editore, the Foreign Rights Department of GA&U note their pleasure at the publishers consideration t...
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore (Milan) writes thanking George Allen & Unwin for copies of the Fellowship of the Ring and the Two Towers. They have been sent ...
This letters contents is currently unknown. It was noted in the Tolkien Societies journal, Amon Hen
Tolkien replies to Mr. Tiller regarding a BBC radio adaptation of The Lord of the Rings. He gives his approval and says he will contact Allen & Unwin to...
This internal readers report offers various points on The Lord of the Rings while it is being considered for piblication in Italian. In conclusion, the ...
An internal 'Readers report' on the Two Towers from Anoldo Mondadori Editore reading committee giving the book a glowing report.
Among various subjects, Tolkien mentions his health, which has been good, and the oddness of suggestioning gifts. He remarks that he was gifted a pair o...
Tolkien reflects on the challenges of getting their story published, expressing surprise and delight at the positive reception. Tolkien recalls a conver...
Tolkien regrets having promised the appendices to The Lord of the Rings. He acknowledges the demand for detailed information but is finding this very di...
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore turn down publishing The Lord of the Rings as they don't think "that a work of this kind could appeal to a great number of Ita...
W.H. Auden had been sent a proof copy of the Return of the King during the period it was titled The War of the Ring. He offers feedback, some questionin...
Tolkien expresses frustration with creating a map for The Lord of the Rings.
Christopher Tolkien had re-drawn Tolkien's draft-map of the area of Gondor and Rohan.
Writing to Miss Turnbull, Tolkien says that he has not had time to reply to her long letter as he is "en-meshed with business" and the final pieces of v...
Tolkien replies to Rayner Unwin concerning his approval of Tolkien's map, which Christopher Tolkien reproduced.
This letter was sent to Lucille Catherine Beckett, married Frost (1884–1979) in Ravello, Italy, who very much liked the first two volumes of The Lord ...
Thanking Miss Turnbull for a gift and mention that he has sent off the last items (proofs) for The Return of the King.
Tolkien responds to a letter from a fellow King Edward's School student, reminiscing a bit about his time there, his friends who were killed in WWI and ...
Rayner Unwin sends Tolkien a folder with reviews from the USA, forwarded from Houghton Mifflin.
Tolkien is still not happy with the appendices going in with The Return of the King, but says that they will have to do. He remarks on the ability of th...
Tolkien writes that he has been involved with administrative duties as well as other distractions. He hopes that Nathan Starr has The Two Towers and is ...
Replying to Rosemary Summers, believed to be a teacher, Tolkien says that some critics argued the Hobbit was too frightening for children. Her school ch...
Tolkien responded to a request as to what makes him 'tick'. Quotes from this letter were printed in the 5 June 1955 New York Times Book Review article '...
Tolkien shares insights into the origins and inspirations behind his writing, particularly focusing on The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the evolution...
This short note sees Tolkien confirming a visit the following day at noon by Levinson. A description of the letter was included in Bonhams Books, Maps a...
A letter written to P. Tolkien and Edith had been to Ireland where they stayed with a Bridget MacCarthy in Cork. Tolkien says he will be at Oxford aroun...
Tolkien mentions his visit to London where he met Rayner Unwin. He met Mr. Wilson, who he described as "the small old Scot who seems to reign over that ...
Tolkien describes a challenging and overwhelming period with an excessive workload, emphasizing the strain it has taken. He mentions booksellers, includ...
This packet sent to Tolkien from the printers Jarrod & Sons' on 29 June is noted in Tolkien's reply to Allen & Unwin. They had sent Tolkien page proofs ...
Tolkien discusses some questions from The New York Times. He talks about the name, TOLKIEN, his ancestors, and even though he was born in Africa, he con...
Tolkien notes that the proofs sent to him arrived later than expected and notes that this will hurry matters, after his "days of leisure" have been cut ...
Tolkien received some additional proofs of The Return of the King back from the printers, and is still not happy with the result. He chalks it up to his...
Tolkien expresses dissatisfaction with the current proofreading procedure and raises concerns about potential errors in the published volume.
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.
Letter Tags
Stats
Guide to Tolkien's Letters
All letters
(2309 letters match)1892
4 January 1892
Arthur Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#987
J.R.R. Tolkien's father, Arthur, writes to his mother, Mary Jane, to inform her of his sons birth the previous day.
14 November 1892
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1155
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father from his and Mabel's home in South Africa to give an update on family life, especially news of a very "sharp" John R...
1893
4 March 1893
Mabel Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien and Mary Jane Tolkien
#988
Mabel Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien's mother, writes to her husband's parents saying that John Ronald does not go outside in the daytime due to the heat. She ...
Christmas 1893
J.R.R. Tolkien (Wanild Toekins) to Arthur Tolkien (Daddy Toekins)
#2066
Mabel wrote this Christmas card to Arthur on Tolkien's behalf as he was just short of his second birthday.
1894
18 February 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien & Mary Jane Tolkien
#1182
Arthur Tolkien writing to his parents sends the delightful news of his second son, Hilary's birth. He talks at length of Mabel's recovery which he says ...
24 March 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1233
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father, John Benjamin Tolkien, informing him of life for his family in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He mentions the com...
16 July 1894
Mabel Tolkien to Roland Suffield
#1238
In a letter to her brother, Roland Suffield, Mabel sends news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State with details of her two boys, Ronald and Hilary...
3 August 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1239
Arthur writes to his father giving news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He and Mabel had a gathering of friends for a musical evening. Some ...
1896
14 February 1896
J.R.R. Tolkien to Arthur Tolkien
#41
This letter to Arthur Tolkien, father of Ronald and Hilary, was dictated by Tolkien's nurse. Mabel, Tolkien's mother, received a telegram that day that ...
1900
Early (Spring) 1900
May Incledon to Mabel Tolkien
#1879
May Incledon writes to Mabel Tolkien on the subject of her prayers. Her and Mabel (her sister), were converting to be members of the Catholic chruch and...
1903
Christmas 1903
Mabel Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#989
Mabel writes to her two son's grandmother on the Tolkien side (mother of her late husband) enclosing drawings by the boys. They have worked on them duri...
1904
Late July 1904
Mabel Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#990
Mabel writes a letter to her mother-in-law saying that the boys look very well, especially compared to how they looked when they met her at the train st...
8 August 1904
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father Francis Morgan
#42
Tolkien writes a puzzling letter, for Father francis, written in rebus code. The letter is held at the Bodleian Library in Oxford.
1909
10 August 1909
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2350
Robert refers to his new step-mother as "Donna", the name he and his sister Molly have given to her when she married their father.
1910
'long after' the summer of 1909
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#991
This undated letter from Tolkien to his wife Edith mentions their first kiss.
26 March 1910
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#993
Tolkien writes to Edith on Easter Sunday, with permission from Father Francis, and includes a poem. From Chronology: "He encloses two devotional pamphle...
28 March 1910
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#2346
After his long letter of 26 March, Tolkien writes a shorter message and includes a poem, 'Morning'. Tolkien did not post the letter until April 1913, af...
17 December 1910 (1)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#2067
Tolkien sends a Telegram to Edith informing her that he has won his Scholarship for £60 a year.
17 December 1910
Edith Bratt to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2068
Edith replies to Tolkien's Telegram of the same day in which he informs her of his success in gaining a Scholarship.
Christmas 1910
Edith Bratt to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2069
Edith sends an unsigned, printed Christmas card to Tolkien. It will be one of the last times they communicate before he turns 21 when he will write aski...
1911
27 April 1911
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1734
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on the news that Tolkien has become librarian at King's Edwards School. Wiseman will be sub-librarian and their friend Vincent...
17 August 1911
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#994
Christopher Wiseman, Tolkien's childhood friend from King Edward's School (KES) writes to Tolkien thanking him for postcards sent to him from the Alps w...
October 1911
Robert Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1113
Robert Gilson is very sad that Tolkien and a few others have left King Edward's School and he wonders if the T.C.B.S. will ever meet again.
4 October 1911
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#995
Writing to Tolkien as Librarian of King Edward's School, Gilson points out that Tolkien has yet to return two books, one of which is the the first volum...
1912
21 January 1912
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1114
Christopher Wiseman writes to inform Tolkien that their friend and fellow T.C.B.S. member Vincent Trought has passed away after being ill.
19 March 1912
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1131
Wiseman agrees to a T.C.B.S. meeting which will take place at Barrow's Stores. He suggests they meet on 22 March. He also suggests to Tolkien that he pl...
13 August 1912
Rob Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#1952
Rob Gilson writes to his stepmother about spending time with Estelle King, daughter of a family friend, whom he finds "above the average interesting."
31 October 1912
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1132
Wiseman writing to Tolkien gives news of himself and Rob Gilson who are both studying at Cambridge university.
17 November 1912
Rob Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#1953
Gilson writes to his stepmother about news from his school, Trinity College in Cambridge. He says he has joined the Cambridge Eugenics Society.
20 November 1912
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#2306
The contents of this letter are unknown, but John Garth, in Tolkien and the Great War notes this letter as an example of the nicknames the TCBS used for...
20 November 1912
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2310
Wiseman writes to Tolkien saying that he is envious that G.B. Smith had come to Oxford to study.
December 1912
Oxoniensis to The Editor (KESC)
#2295
A letter from an Old Edwardian at Oxford. Giving news of various people with news of happenings in various activities. On Tolkien it is remarked that he...
1913
January 1913 (after 3 January but no later than 7 January)
Edith Bratt to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1133
Edith replies to Tolkiens letter of January 3rd telling him she is engaged to a George Field, the brother of a school friend. She had accepted this prop...
3 January 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#44
This letter from Tolkien was begun at midnight on his 21st birthday. He writes that his love for Edith remains and that he wants to marry her. He was no...
January 1913 (after 3 January but no later than 7 January)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Tolkien
#1134
Tolkien replies to Edith's letter and they arrange to meet on 8 January. This letter, although not dated, was written shortly after Tolkien's letter at ...
15 January 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#998
Tolkien writes to Edith, making mention of the amount of kisses she will owe him for the work he does each week.
17 January 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#999
Tolkien, now reunited with Edith, writes that he will focus more on his studies.
24 January 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1000
Tolkien writes to Edith, saying he is very tempted to slacking off.
26 January 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1135
Writing to Edith, Tolkien says that she is a figure he is waiting for and says he would recognise her even in twilight.
1 February 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#45
Tolkien has marked his place on this postcard, showing where he sits for meals at Exeter College. He attended Holy Communion in the morning and is due t...
21 March 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1136
Wiseman sends a postcard to Tolkien. Hammond/Scull note that it will be forwarded to Phoenix Farm, Gedling four days later 25 March.
21 March 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2305
The contents of this letter are not known, but Garth notes this as one of the letters where Gilson refers to his friends with made up names (sobriquets)
April 1913 (no earlier than 7 April and no later than 27 April)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1137
Results from Honour Moderations had been published in the Times, 8 April Tolkien was listed in the Second Class. He wrote to Rob Gilson to inform him of...
7 April 1913
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2308
Rob Gilson describes his trip with Frederick Scopes to sketch various churches in northern France around Easter the prior year in this letter and #TCGLe...
13 April 1913
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2309
Rob Gilson describes his trip with Frederick Scopes to sketch various churches in northern France around Easter the prior year in this letter and #TCGLe...
27 April 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1138
Rob Gilson replies to Tolkiens April letter informing him of recent results ( Gilson says that he does not know whether to congratulate or commiserate w...
June 1913 (before 9 June)
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1139
No details of this letter are currently known but G.B. Smith replies to it on 9 June to ask Tolkien about obtaining furniture, etc. for his rooms. He wa...
June 1913 (before June 10)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1141
Tolkien writes a long letter to Rob Gilson some time before 10 June when Gilson replies. Noted in Chronology, he says he is enjoying the Oxford English ...
5 June 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1735
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien. Tolkien had injured his foot and Wiseman wishes him a fast recovery so that they can both take part in the King E...
9 June 1913
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1140
Smith replies to a letter from Tolkien he received that morning. He asks Tolkien about buying furniture for his rooms when he arrives at Oxford for the ...
ca. 10 June 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1143
Tolkien replies to Gilson Tolkien saying he will be in Warwick until 28 June. Gilson had written asking if Tolkien will be attending some social dates i...
10 June 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1142
Gilson replying to Tolkien's long letter asks whether Tolkien could attend some dates, he asks if Tolkien can play tennis on 14 June, if he will be in B...
12 June 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1144
Gilson writes to Tolkien again asking if he can visit him on 14 June. He includes train times to Warwick from Marston Green. Hammond and Scull note in C...
22 June 1913
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2317
Gilson writes that he had taken a copy of Milton's Paradise Lost to OTC camp, and met a like-minded friend who had brought a copy of Dante's Inferno.
29 July 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1145
It is assumed Tolkien wrote to Edith in the evening after meeting the Mexican boys that day who he will accompany to Paris. At Charing Cross he meets Mr...
30 July 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1146
Tolkien again writes to Edith, assumed to be upon his arrival in Paris. He mentions further his impression of the boys in his letter of the previous day.
10 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1147
Writing to Edith after a day trip to Brittany, Tolkien remarks on its tourist look of "dirty papers" and "bathing machines".
13 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#43
In late July, Tolkien is hired by a Mr. Killion to accompany two Mexican boys on a visit to Paris where their two aunts and brother would join them. Tol...
15 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#1104
Writing from the Hôtel des Champs Elysées to Mr Killion, Tolkien recounts the problems following the death of Ángela. Julia, their other aunt has sai...
17 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#1105
Writing again to Mr. Killion, Tolkien updates him on happenings in Paris. He and Ventura attended Mass and they dined with Madame Cervantes again.
18 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#1106
Tolkien again writes to Mr Killion, convinced that the boys should not return to Mexico but continue their education at Stonyhurst.
18 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1148
Writing to Edith again Tolkien says he is certain that he will not be required to travle to Mexico to bring the Mexican boys back for school at Stonyhur...
20 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#1107
Tolkien is concerned that the boys need entertainment and has bought various books cheap for them to read such as King Solomon's Mines.
23 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Killion
#1108
Tolkien and the boys remained in Paris for another 7 days but no further details can currently be found regarding this letter.
29 August 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1149
Writing to Edith Tolkien tells her he and the boys will be leaving France the next day. They will arrive at Southampton and travel to Hampshire and stay...
16 September 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1150
Christopher Wiseman while visiting Grenoble in France writes to Tolkien asking him to visit Birmingham at the end of September and suggests a gathering ...
Early October 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1151
Hammond and Scull in Chronology note that a postcard from Gilson is forwarded to Warwick from Exeter College though no other details are known currently.
10 October 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1152
Upon his return to Oxford, Tolkien writes a letter to Edith who he had visited in Warwick before he visited Birmingham.
October? 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1115
Christopher is envious that GB Smith has joined Tolkien at Oxford. Letter is tentatively dated based on context given by Garth in Tolkien and the Great ...
Late? 1913
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1116
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien that Christopher Wiseman isn't happy, and his poor health is preventing him from playing rugby.
2 November 1913
Robert Quilter Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2311
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien about Wiseman's troubles in Cambridge, remarking some members of the T.C.B.S have managed to help keep his spirits up with ...
3 November 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#46
Tolkien writes to Edith about registering as a reader at the Bodleian Library.
30 November 1913
Rob Gilson to Marriane Cary Gilson
#1736
Writing to his step-mother, Rob Gilson mentions that G.B. Smith and T.K. Barnsley have agreed to play on Tolkien's team in the Rugby football match but ...
5 December 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Editor, King Edward's School Chronicle
#1153
Tolkien writes to the editor of KESC after a request for information about life of the experiences of Old Edwardians at Oxford. Tolkien signed the lette...
12 December 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2312
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, remarking he misses the T.C.B.S members at Oxford (Smith and Tolkien).
?17 - ?19 December 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1184
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien informs his T.C.B.S. friends" of his engagement to Edith, though he does not give any details of...
?17 - ?19 December 1913
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1185
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien informs his T.C.B.S. friends" of his engagement to Edith, though he does not give any details of...
20 December 1913
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1117
Wiseman sends Tolkien a postcard congratulating him on his engagement, but is worried that this will pull Tolkien away from the T.C.B.S.
31 December 1913
Emily Jane Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1240
Emily Jane Suffield writes to Hilary on New Years Eve wishing him well for the coming year and thanks him for his gift and letter for Christmas. She als...
1914
4 January 1914
Robert Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1118
Gilson sincerely congratulates Tolkien on his engagement, but with mixed feelings due to Tolkien likely getting distracted from his friends.
4 January 1914
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1183
Writing to Tolkien to offer his congratulations, Rob Gilson also asks Tolkien to attend a meeting of the T.C.B.S. next week. Tolkien would not attend th...
14 January 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1186
Writing to Edith, Tolkien remarks that the life they can look forward to will be made all the more joyful given they are both orphans.
17 February 1914
Rob Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#1187
Rob Gilson writes to his stepmother, Marianne Cary Gilson after a weekend in Oxford with Christopher Wiseman, T.K. Barnsley, G.B. Smith and Tolkien. A s...
17 February 1914
Rob Gilson to Marriane Cary Gilson
#1737
Rob Gilson writes to his step-mother. He mentions members of the T.C.B.S. noting T.K. Barnsley, dominant in gathering with his wit and laconic expressio...
22 February 1914
Rob Gilson to Marriane Cary Gilson
#1738
Further to his letter of 17 February, Gilson talks more on the members of the T.C.B.S.
28 February 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1188
Tolkien writes to Edith, complaining of his prospects of employment, as he sees them.
26 April 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2323
Garth describes a typical meeting of T.C.B.S. where Wiseman would make it "hilarious and carefree", evidently described by Gilson in this letter.
22 May 1914
Rob Gilson to Marriane Cary Gilson
#1739
Writing to his step-mother, Rob Gilson tells her that Tolkien is "quite a great authority on etymology - an enthusiast".
5 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1189
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
8 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1119
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
11 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1190
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
14 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1191
Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Oratory. The two were visiting the Lizard Peninsula from...
August 16 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1120
Tolkien looks forward to seeing Edith in three days. Tolkien writes to Edith about his hikes in Cornwall with Father Vincent Reade of the Birmingham Ora...
23 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to May Incledon
#1192
While staying in Northgate, Warwick at the 'White House', Tolkien writes to his aunt May Incledon. No other details are currently available.
30 August 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Stafford
#1193
While staying in Northgate, Warwick at the 'White House', Tolkien writes to a Mrs. Stafford in Oxford to say that he will be back for term time.
4 October 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Estelle King
#2313
Gilson writes that Barnsley tried to persuade him to join the Old Edwardian recruits in the 'Birmingham Battalion'. He also says that his father (Robert...
7 October 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2316
Christopher Wiseman and Rob Gilson have gone to see the play Outcast, starring Gerald du Maurier.
11 October 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1194
Writing to Edith on the first day of Michaelmas Full Term, Tolkien describes the situation at Oxford. His college is empty and the Examinations School h...
13 October 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1195
Writing to Edith, Tolkien mentions that Oxford is a place of gloom.
c. 22 or 23 (or 26*) October 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1
Carpenter #1
Written during Tolkien's final undergraduate year at Oxford. Describes his studies and social interactions. Note on the dating of this letter: Humphrey ...
22 October 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1334
Tolkien mentions that "drill is a godsend". He has exercise 3 mornings a week before "getting to books" which he says suits him well. We wrongly atribut...
Before 15 November 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1197
Writing to Wiseman Tolkien notes that the power of the T.C.B.S. can shake the world.
1 November 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2319
Gilson writes about a weekend visit by Smith to Cambridge, which Tolkien was invited to but unable to attend. Gilson was visited by Smith though, and th...
5 November 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2318
Robert writes that the rifles used for training had been taken away for deployed soldiers to use.
9 November 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1121
Tolkien writes to Wiseman about nationalism the evening before a debate at the Stapledon Society on this same topic.
9 November 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2322
Gilson writes about how heroic F. L. Lucas is, and that the military lectures he has attended have shown him the "fearful responsibility" of a officer f...
10 November 1914
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1196
Wiseman asks Tolkien if he will be able to set aside a few days to join him in London during the Christmas vacation, noting that Gilson and Smith will b...
15 November 1914
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1198
Wiseman writes to Tolkien, saying he fears the T.C.B.S. is drifting apart and does not have the same interests. They are now at Oxford and Cambridge and...
16 November 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1110
Writing to his friend, after reading parts of Wiseman's letter to G.B. Smith, Tolkien agrees that the group (T.C.B.S.) has drifted apart but that it is ...
16 November 1914
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1111
Wiseman wrote, crossing with Tolkien's letter of the same day (#TCGLetter1110) to say that Rob Gilson was free and can attend a T.C.B.S. meeting on 12 D...
27 November 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#2
Carpenter #2
Writing to Edith, Tolkien describes his day. He had dinner with "a man called Earp" and attends a meeting of the Essay Club where he reads from his Voya...
29 November 1914
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#141
Tolkien opens by saying he has to write after reading Edith's letter again. He describes various things he has been doing in the military, school and ch...
6 December 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2320
Gilson has enlisted, and fears missing the four person T.C.B.S Council meeting fast approaching. Gilson says that GB Smith has also enlisted on December...
10 December 1914
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2321
Gilson has enlisted, and fears missing the four person T.C.B.S Council meeting fast approaching. Glison is now at his military camp at Cherry Hinton, ne...
1915
13 February 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2324
Gilson writes that while he previously was certain that the war would end in six months, he now would not be at all surprised if it lasted ten years.
1 March 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1200
Rob Gilson asks Tolkien to attend a meeting of the T.C.B.S. in Cambridge on the weekend of 6-7 March. The previous TCBS Council was so good Gilson despe...
2 March 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1201
Following Gilson's letter of the previous day (#TCGLetter1200) Wiseman also writes to Tolkien asking his to attend the T.C.B.S. meeting. He says that G....
?after 2 March 1915, no later than the morning of 11 March 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1204
Tolkien writes saying he has set himself a specific day for replying to letters and evidently suggests a meeting of the group.
4 March 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2329
Rob writes about a training exercise involving a Witch-Doctor / wizard.
6 March 1915
Christopher Wiseman, Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1202
Their letters of 1 March and 2 March had gone unanswered so Wiseman and Gilson send Tolkien a telegram. They suggest, though not seriously, that if Tolk...
?10 March 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1203
While at Magdalen College, G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien. Hammond and Scull note that Tolkien had sent Smith his poem on Eärendel, or the first part of ...
?10-15 March
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1206
It is evident that Tolkien replied to Smith's letter requesting typewritten copies of his poems (see #TCGLetter1203) but this is not dated in Chronology.
11 March 1915
Christopher Wiseman (wt comments from Rob Gilson) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1205
Wiseman and Gilson had reread one of Tolkien's letters, he includes comments from Gilson. It appears that Tolkien had written saying he had asigned hims...
?15 (possibly, less likely, 22) March 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1207
Further to Smith's earlier letter (#TCGLetter1203) and Tolkien's assumed reply with typewritten verse (#TCGLetter1206), Smith replies that he has receiv...
Before 26 March 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1210
Tolkien sends a postcard to Christopher Wiseman in which he suggests some dates (11 or 17 April 1915) for a meeting of the T.C.B.S. The exact dating of ...
22 March 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1208
Gilson writes to Tolkien explaining that he cannot keep weekends open for T.C.B.S. meetings and that he needs to know at once which weekends work best f...
?25 March 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1209
Writing to Tolkien, Smith mentions that he has shown Tolkien's verse to H.T. Wade-Gery who is friends with them both. Wade-Gery enjoys Tolkien's poems a...
26 March 1915 (postmark*)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1211
Wiseman replies to Tolkien saying he doubts he will be able to attend either 11 or 17 April meetings of the T.C.B.S.. These dates were proposed by Tolki...
[27 March 1915]
Geoffrey Bache Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2325
Smith responds to the poems that Tolkien had sent him. Smith likes poems in the classical form, and doesn't understand Tolkien's wayward romanticism. He...
30 March 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1212
Wiseman has now moved to Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham and writes to Tolkien proposing 18 April for a meeting of the T.C.B.S. and suggests Tolkien organises i...
31 March 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1213
Gilson writing to Tolkien confirms he has received his poems safely, but is yet to read them. He confirms a meeting of the T.C.B.S. for 18 April, mentio...
31 March 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2334
Gilson writes that he has received the poems that Tolkien has sent him. Gilson ends up sending them along to Christopher Wiseman in a few weeks without ...
?3 April 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1214
G.B. Smiths writes that he is unwell and says that Tolkien's letters offer him consolation, especially Tolkien's mentions of Smith's Newdigate Prize ent...
4 April 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1215
Noted as existing by Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull, but they did not see the letter and no further information is currently known of its contents. I...
5 April 1915 (postmark*)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1216
Hammond and Scull note that this letter repeats what Wiseman had said to Tolkien in his letter of 30 March. *The dating of this letter is noted as from ...
6 April 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1217
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien sent a postcard to Wiseman but that they have not seen it. We have no further information at pres...
10 April 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1218
Noted by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, Tolkien writes to Wiseman, and possibly relays news on G.B. Smith. Wiseman will reply on the same day say...
10 April 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1219
Replying to Tolkien's letter which arrived earlier on this day Wiseman replies saying he has notified G.B. Smith to request leave for next weeks T.C.B.S...
12 April 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1220
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien, informing him that he is on sick leave and will not be able to attend the next T.C.B.S. meeting (18 April). He also mentio...
12 April 1915 (Telegram)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1221
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien sends Wiseman a telegram before he receives a letter from G.B. Smith (#TCGLetter1220) and that Wi...
13 April 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1222
Wiseman sends a telegram to Tolkien asking what arrangements he has made for their 'council' (T.C.B.S. meeting) in Oxford as there is a problem which ha...
13 April 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1223
Wiseman had sent Tolkien a telegram earlier in the day asking for details of the arrangements he had made for the next T.C.B.S. gathering (#TCGletter122...
14 April 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1224
Rob Gilson is recovering at home in Marston Green on sick leave. He writes to Tolkien to say he will not be attending the 'Council of Oxford' (T.C.B.S. ...
15 April 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1225
Wiseman informs Tolkien that the 'Council of Oxford' is off. He also notes he has received Tolkien's poems, sent on to him from Rob Gilson. He is workin...
16 April 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1226
Tolkien replies to Wiseman's letter from the previous day saying that he cannot join him and his family at the weekend.
18 April, 10 June, 17 October 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2335
Tolkien and the Great War notes these three letters as the source for Gilson declaring his love for Estelle King.
19 April 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1227
G.B. Smith replies to Tolkien that he is joining the 8th batallion and hopes to get Tolkien a place but he is not certain. He believes that Tolkien shou...
25 April 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1228
Wiseman gives Tolkien some feedback on his poetry. He and Gilson had been discussing it and Smith had said previously that he was impressed with it. Wis...
?14 May 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1241
Writing to Tolkien, G.B. Smith confirms he is now with the 19th Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers. They are stationed at the grand Hotel, Penmeanmaw...
Likely 29 May or 5 June, 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1242
Writing to Tolkien, G.B. Smith says he has been reading the book (a Welsh grammar) Tolkien sent after Smith requested it in his letter of 14 May (#TCGLe...
1 June 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1243
Tolkien informs Edith that his friend, W.E. Hall has been killed in service. He says that Hall is the first of his friends to die, but he knows that soo...
?10 June 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1244
Tolkien had asked G.B. Smith about being posted with Smith to his regiment and Smith replies saying that he should contact Colonel Stainforth of the 19t...
11 June 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1245
Replying to a letter from Tolkien (at this time I have no date for that letter but it is almost certainly to congratulate Tolkien that both of them had ...
19 and 22 June 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2330
Robert has moved to Lindrick Camp.
?20 June 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1246
Smith writes to Tolkien offering him advice on the equipment he will need for camp. A large portion of the letter is available to read in The J.R.R. Tol...
25 June 1915
Geofrey Bache Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2326
Smith makes mention of the volume of Georgian Poetry he had asked Tolkien to send him.
28 June 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1247
Smith informs Tolkien that Colonel Stainforth has offered him a place, he asks Tolkien to write to the Colonel. He again says he will try to get Tolkien...
July 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1248
While he is in Warwick Tolkien writes to Rob Gilson. No further details of this letter are known. Rob Gilson will not reply until September.
4 July 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1249
G.B. Smith sends his congratulations to Tolkien while he is in Warwick for ‘one of the highest distinctions an Englishman can obtain’.
[4 July 1915]
Geoffrey Bache Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2331
The day after Tolkien's exam result (First Class Honours) was published in The Times, Smith sends a congratulatory note to Tolkien. He also (again) tell...
9 July 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1267
G.B. Smith writing to Tolkien while he was visiting his Aunt Mabel at Abbotsford, Moseley, Birmingham suggesting, again, that he ask Stainforth what he ...
9 July 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1269
Tolkien writes to G. B. Smith informing him of his news from the War Office in a letter, see #TCGLetter1268. He will also write to Christopher Wiseman g...
9 July 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1270
Tolkien writes to Christopher Wiseman giving him the news of his army appointment (see #TCGLetter1268) and also mentions he will be visiting Moselye and...
9 July 1915
The War Office to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1268
The War Office writes to Tolkien c/ o Father Francis Morgan at the Birmingham Oratory. This letter is signed by King George and Col. W. Elliot. He has b...
c. 10 July 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1273
G.B. Smith wrote to Tolkien on or around 10 July 1915, he suggests the notice Tolkien would receive from the War Office would be the ‘gazetting’. To...
11 July 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1272
Christopher Wiseman writing to Tolkien, says that in June he had seen a notice that the Royal Navy wants mathematicians as instructors, and is now await...
11 July 1915
G.B. Smith (?) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1274
Tolkien writes that he has been "gazetted". See #TCGLetter1273
11 July 1915 (likely)
J.R.R. Tolkien (?) to Mr. How
#1271
There is some question whether Tolkien sent this letter, Hammond and Scull say that "Tolkien drafts and probably sends a letter from Abbotsford to a Mr ...
13 July 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1275
Smith writes to Tolkien while he is at Abbotsford, Moseley, Birmingham (which will be forwarded to him at the Incledons, Barnt Green, on 15 July). He ad...
c. 13-14 July 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1276
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien while he is staying with his mother in Bromsgrove. He says he and Tolkien must spend some time together and his mo...
18 July 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1277
Smith had not heard from Tolkien so he writes to cheer him up. He thinks Tolkien will be safer in the 13th rather than the 19th with him.
19 July 1915
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1278
While Tolkien is at Bedford for Army training R.W. Reynolds writes to him commenting on the poems Tolkien sent him. Among them were 'You & Me and the Co...
[22 July 1915]
Geoffrey Bache Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2333
Smith feel "philosophick" about Tolkien's appointment to the 13th Lancashire Fusiliers, though he would like Tolkien to be able to transfer to Smith's u...
?23 July 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1279
Likely in reply to a letter from Tolkien (currently unknown), Smith says that Tolkien can still try to be transferred once his training is completed. He...
26 July 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1280
Christopher Wiseman replies to a postcard from Tolkien (date currently unknown) and suggests he and Edith join him in London at their family home in Aug...
2 August 1915
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1281
Reynolds writes to thank Tolkien who has sent him another poem. Tolkien in a letter (unknown) had asked for advice on publishing a book of poems. He sug...
23 August 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2348
In this letter (along with #TCGLetter2349) Gilson writes about T. K. Barnsley becoming a professional soldier as part of the Coldstream Guards.
12 September 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Mrs. Cary Gilson
#2328
Smith, Wade-Gery and others from Oxford joined together to be officers in the Lancashire Fusiliers.
12 September 1915
Marianne Cary Gilson to Robert Quilter Gilson
#2337
Robert's stepmother reports that she has heard from Dickie Reynolds about Oxford Poetry. Sidney Barrowclough, with the Royal Field Artillery, has set sa...
13 September 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1282
Rob Gilson while at the 3rd Durham Temporary Hospital, Sunderland writes to Tolkien. It is forwarded from Exeter College to Whittington heath. He mentio...
14 September 1915
Edith Bratt to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1283
Edith writes to Tolkien saying that 'A Song of Aryador' is her favourite poem. She wonders how h can write at camp.
17 September 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1284
Writing from the 3rd Durham Temporary Hospital in Sunderland, Gilson tells Tolkien that he has received a lot of mail from the T.C.B.S. members in the p...
19 September 1915
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1285
R.W. Reynolds writes to Tolkien while he is at at Whittington Heath and thanks him for sending on some of his poems. He likes them, but also he offers s...
21 September 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1286
Gilson writing from Marston Green to Tolkien at Whittington Heath says he has sent telegrams to Christopher Wiseman and G.B. Smith to ask them to come t...
23 September 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1287
Wiseman writes to Tolkien to say that all four members of the T.C.B.S. can be in Lichfield, now described as the 'Council of Lichfield', on 25 September...
23 September 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2338
Gilson writes again to Tolkien about the Council of Lichfield
24 September 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1288
Gilson sends a telegram to Tolkien to say that he and Smith will arrive at 10.34am into Lichfield and will be at the George Hotel which will be their ba...
25 September 1915
Rob Gilson, G. B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1289
Smith and Gilson write to Tolkien on their arrival at the George Hotel saying they hope to see him there when they return after a short sightseeing outi...
5 October 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1290
Gilson is now stationed at No. 2 Camo, Sutton Veny with his battalion and writes to Tolkien saying that he and G.B. Smith believe that he should send hi...
5 October 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2339
Gilson writes home. He was returned to his battalion on Salisbury Plain. He has spent a weekend with G.B. Smith where they went to Salisbury and then th...
6 October 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1291
Smith who is visiting Bath with Rob Gilson to make plans for their 'Council of Bath' writes to Tolkien on the matter and proposes 23 October as a possib...
9 October 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1292
Further to #TCGLetter1290, Smith writes to Tolkien saying he believes Tolkien should write to Hodder and Stoughton or Sidgwick & Jackson. He asks Tolkie...
17 October 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2340
Smith and Gilson visit Bath in preparation for the T.C.B.S. Council that is planned to be held there soon.
19 October 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1293
Smith who is currently at No. 6 Camp, Codford St. Mary writes asking Tolkien to confirm as soon as possible if he will attend the 'Council of Bath' meet...
19 October 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1294
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien from No. 3 Camp, Sutton veny while Tolkien is at Brocton Camp, Staffordshire that he is likely to be sent ot he front soon....
24 October 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1295
Smith writes to Tolkien while he at the Wiseman' house in London after hearing that Tolkien unfortunately cannot attend the next council. Edith has been...
27 October 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1296
Wiseman writes to Tolkien to give him updates on the previous weekends events with the T.C.B.S. He remarks on Trought's paper on the Romantics, noting t...
31 October 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1297
Gilson was the last of the T.C.B.S. to write to Tolkien with his report of the gathering the previous weekend. He was very sorry that Tolkien could not ...
31 October 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2349
In this letter (along with #TCGLetter2348 ) Gilson writes about T. K. Barnsley becoming a professional soldier as part of the Coldstream Guards.
17 November 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2341
Robert describes to his stepmother a frosty week that Tolkien and Edith spent in Warwick. The 'Salford Pals are due to depart Salisbury Plain along with...
21 November 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1298
Rob Gilson writes saying that he had last heard from Tolkien was the letter shown him by G.B. Smith in London and he hopes that both he and Edith were f...
21 November 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2343
Robert describes to his stepmother a frosty week that Tolkien and Edith spent in Warwick.
25 November 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1299
Tolkien writes to Edith. No information is known currently of its contents.
26 November 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#3
Carpenter #3
Written while Tolkien was training as part of the Lancashire Fusiliers. He is working on his poem 'Kotirion among the Trees' and mentions sending it to ...
30 November 1915
Wilson King to Robert Quilter Gilson
#2336
Estelle King's father writes to Gilson, warning him that his marriage proposal to Estelle is not appropriate, as he is too low-class and there is a war ...
2 December 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1300
G.B. Smith, who is in the trenches in France, writes to Tolkien asking for the long letter Tolkien promised in his last postcard to Smith.
2 December 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Estelle King
#2342
Gilson mention's Tolkien's poem 'Kortirion' in this letter to his love interest.
22 December 1915
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1301
G.B. Smith writing to Tolkien, thanks him for various letters and commenting on Oxford Poetry 1915 and 'Goblin Feet'. Smith and Wade-Gery agree that the...
26 December 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1302
Rob Gilson replies to Tolkien's letter about some problems Tolkien is having. Gilson remarks on ‘the extra blackness of your fate in these dark days�...
30 December 1915
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1303
Wiseman writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp. He has been posted to the HMS Superb. He has received 'Kortirion among the Trees' from Gilson (#TCGLetter1302...
1916
7 January 1916
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1306
Rob Gilson writes informing Tolkien that he will be leaving for the front on 8 January.
12 January 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1307
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien while he is at Brocton Camp praising him for his poem 'Kortirion among the Trees' saying that "it is a great and a noble po...
14 January 1916
Hilary Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1821
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith thanking her for her letter and parcel. He gives an update on matters in France and the hopelessness of the war. He remar...
19 January 1916
Dora Owen to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1308
Writing to Tolkien, Dora Owen, who has read 'Goblin Feet' in Oxford Poetry 1915, asks Tolkien if she may include it in a collection of fairy poetry she ...
19 January - 2 February 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dora Owen
#1309
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull in their entry for 19 January 1916 (#TCGLetter1308), note that Tolkien replied to Dora Owen with several poems include...
26 January 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rob Gilson
#1311
Tolkien writes to Rob Gilson informing him that he and Edith's have set a date to marry, it will be on 22 March in Warwick.
26 January 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1317
Tolkien writes to Smith with news of his and Edith's wedding day which will take place on 22 March in Warwick. He also notes that he has sent his book o...
2 February 1916
Dora Owen to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1310
Dora Owens replies to Tolkien's letter thanking him for sending her several poems. Among them are 'The Trumpets of Faerie', 'The Princess Nî', 'A Song ...
February 3, 1916
Geoffrey B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1112
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, thanking him for the letter he wrote to him. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien probably...
4 February 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1315
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, praising his poem 'Kortirion among the Trees', which the original of is enclosed. Wiseman that "of course" Edith ...
9 February 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1316
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, he talks about what friendship with the other T.C.B.S. means to him. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull not...
9 February 1916
Hilary Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1876
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith with news of his time in France during WWI. He says that his party have returned from the front lines are on training and...
12 February 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1318
Tolkien writes to Edith, commenting that he wants to return England to Roman Catholicism.
22 February 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1319
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, suggesting that he sends 'Kortirion among the Trees' to a publisher. He has mentioned the poem to R.W. Rey...
1 March 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1320
Writing to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, Christopher Wiseman defends an opinion he made on 'Kortirion among the Trees'. He says that Tolkien is interested in...
c. from 1-13 March 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1326
Christopher Wiseman had written to Tolkien on 1 March 1916, saying that Tolkien liked "little, delicate, beautiful creations" but he was "more thrilled ...
2 March 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#4
Carpenter #4
A short extract where Tolkien mentions his "nonsense fairy language", referring to it as "such a mad hobby!" Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note t...
4 March 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1321
G.B. Smith sends Tolkien a part of his poem 'The Burial of Sophocles'.
4 March 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1755
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on the subject of his (Tolkien's) writing. He notes that he is happy that he has (apparently) set Tolkien off on work on his "...
5 March 1916 (postmark)
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1322
G.B. Smith sends Tolkien the second part of his long poem 'The Burial of Sophocles' after he sent a portion earlier that month. He asked that Tolkien po...
c. 8 March 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father Francis Morgan
#1312
Tolkien writes to Father Francis Morgan giving him the news that he and Edith will marry on 22 March in Warwick. He had not mentioned this fact when he ...
c. 8-12 March 1916
Father Francis Morgan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1313
Father Francis replies to Tolkien's letter congratulating him and Edith of their upcoming wedding. He says he should like to do the ceremony himself at ...
9 March 1916
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1323
Rob Gilson writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp, offering his best wishes, prayers, and blessings for his and Edith's impending marriage.
10 March 1916
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1324
Reynolds writes, thanking Tolkien for sending him a copy of 'Kortirion among the Trees'. He likes it very much and would like Tolkien to send him more o...
10 March 1916
Rob Gilson to Estelle King
#2304
Gilson describes Tolkien's authority on etymology, and writes about Tolkien finishing school in Oxford before joining the Army. He mentions how "despera...
6 April 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1327
G.B. Smith writes to Tolkien at Brocton Camp. He says it is a long time since he has heard from Tolkien. He also mentions, but cannot yet comment on a l...
7 April 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1877
Tolkien's brother Hilary writes to him with news from his own part of the war effort in France. He mentions that in the England they have had terrible w...
16 April 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1325
Christopher writes Tolkien a long letter, said by Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull to be a "long letter written in stages" from 14, 17, 26 March and 16...
19 April 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien, Edith Tolkien
#1878
Hilary writes to Edith. It has been some time since his last letter and Edith has now moved from Warwickshire and he does not know her new address. He h...
8 May 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Adjutant, 13th Battalion
#1328
Tolkien writes to the Adjutant of the 13th Battalion requesting leave for 13 to 17 May after he has completed his signalling course. His address if his ...
11 May 1916
Adjutant, 13th Battalion to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1329
Following Tolkien's request for leave, requested on 8 May (#TCGLetter1328), they say that leave is not being granted at present, but then the order is s...
23 May 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1535
While at Brocton Camp, Tolkien receives a telegram from Smith who is at West Bromwich and on leave until 29 May. He wonders if they could meet.
24 May 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1536
Smith, in another telegram says that he will come to Great Haywood for Saturday afternoon and stay the night.
26 May 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1537
Smith sends Tolkien another telegram care of Edith's landlady, Mrs. Kendrick, to inform him of his time of arrival via train.
?End of May 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1538
Smith writes to thank Tolkien for hosting him, describing it as a "splendid two days". This letter is held at the 'Tolkien Papers, Bodleian Library, Oxf...
2 June 1916
Army Headquarters, Cannock Chase to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1539
Tolkien is informed by telegram that he is to join the British Expeditionary Force in France. He must first report to the Embarkation Staff Officer at F...
?18 (possibly 11) June 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1540
Smith writes to Tolkien on his return to France, "attached 11th Lancashire Fusiliers, 25th I.B.D., 25 A.P.O. (S) 17, B.E.F." to say that he is sorry Tol...
21 June 1916 (date received)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Gilson
#1541
Tolkien wrote to Christopher Gilson. No further information is known currently but Gilson replies on 22 June that he is cheered to hear from the T.C.B.S...
22 June 1916
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1542
Upon his return from a night working party, Gilson replies to Tolkien's letter noting that he is cheered to hear from the T.C.B.S. This is the last lett...
25 June 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1543
G.B. Smith writes, wishing Tokien well "in all that may happen to you within the next few months, and may we live beyond them to a better time". This le...
12 July 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1544
Smith sends Tolkien a 'field postcard' noting that he is "quite well".
15 July 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1545
Smith writes to Tolkien, he has seen the newspaper and Rob Gilson is named among the dead. He had died on 1 July but had originally been named among the...
c. second half of July 1916
Cary Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2070
Cary Gilson, Rob Gilson's father, writes to Tolkien and likely includes a memorial card for Rob who had been killed at the Battle of The Somme in early ...
25 July 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1546
Smith writes to Tolkien offering praise for his poem, 'The Lonely Isle'.
c. 1 August 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1549
Tolkien writes to G.B. Smith. Little is currently know of this letter and it is dated via the remarks of Hammond/Scull.
4 August 1916 (postmark)
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1547
Smith writes to Tolkien, and likely includes a letter from Christopher Wiseman on the news of Rob Gilson's death. Smith has underlined parts and Tolkien...
11 August 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1548
Smith thanks Tolkien for his letter, he thinks that "there are still a great many sober men and true..." This letter is among the 'Tolkien Papers, Bodle...
12 August 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to G. B. Smith
#5
Carpenter #5
Tolkien has learned about the death of his close friend Rob Gilson - one of the four members of the TCBS and writes a long letter about how he feels the...
14 August 1916
Robert Cary Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1550
Robert Cary Gilson, Head Master of King Edward’s School and father of Rob Gilson, replies to Tolkien's letter of sympathy sent on the death of his son...
15 August 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1551
Smith writes to Tolkien having not received Tolkien's letter of 12-13 August . he has been unable to sleep for thinking about Rob. He remarks that maybe...
19–22 August 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1552
Smith having received Tolkien's letter of 12-13 August replies disagreeing with Tolkien's notion that the T.C.B.S. has ended with Gilson's death. He als...
25 August 1916
Mrs. Weatherhead to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2071
Mrs. Weatherhead, the mother of a soldier killed in action during WW1 writes to Tolkien to ask if he has any news about her sons death.
30 August 1916
Christopher Wiseman to G.B. Smith
#1556
Wiseman writes to G.B. Smith saying that he has been reading correspondence between the group from 1914. He describes it as his "TCBSian" archive. He wi...
c. September 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.B. Smith
#1555
Tolkien writes to Smith, apparently letting off steam about friction with other people. It is assumed that he is talking about Christopher Wiseman.
4 September 1916
Christopher Wiseman to G.B. Smith
#1557
Further to his letter of 30 August Wiseman continues his commentary on the correspondence of the T.C.B.S. and his belief that the group has changed.
10 September 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1553
G.B. Smith writes asking Tolkien to send him a field postcard. He notes that he has not heard from Christopher Wiseman but has had a letter from R.W. Re...
14 September 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1880
Hilary, writing to his brother gives news of his time near the front lines. They are resting currently. He had heard from Edith a few days ago. He has b...
16 September 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1554
Smith writes to Tolkien, he encloses a letter from Christopher Wiseman. Wiseman had sent to Smith, the letters written by him and Tolkien during the win...
3 October 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1558
Smith writes to Tolkien pointing out that he has not heard from him in quite some time.
Between 30 October - 7 November 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Lieutenant-Colonel Bird
#1559
Tolkien writes to Commanding Officer offering his regret at suffering from trench fever. He hopes to return to the same Batallion when he is well enough.
C. November 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Smith
#1562
Tolkien writes to Mrs. Smith, G.B. Smith's mother. She replies, thanking him and says she will forward the letter to her son.
8 November 1916
[Captain] E. Munday to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1560
Captain E. Munday, Adjutant of the 11th Lancashire Fusiliers, writes to Tolkien, in reply to his letter to Lieutenant-Colonel Bird. He says that while i...
9 November 1916
Lieutenant-Colonel Bird / 11th Lancashire Fusiliers to The War Office commissions Office
#1561
This letter, sent to Tolkien with a letter dated 8 November was to be passed to the War Office after Tolkien was determined fit for a return to service....
13 November 1916
Mrs. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1563
G.B. Smith's mother replies to Tolkien's letter giving her news. She will pass this letter on to her son.
16 November 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1565
Smith replies to Tolkien's earlier letter. He is relieved to hear that Tolkien is "still alive". Tolkien is at this time recovering at 3 South General H...
16 November 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1566
Wiseman who is currently serving on HMS Superb replies to Tolkien's letter, he wishes he could visit but leave for Naval personel is strictly limited an...
18 November 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1567
In a follow-up to his letter of 16 November, Smith notes that had forgotten to say that his mother would be very happy to source any books which Tolkien...
27 November 1916
3rd (Reserve) Battalion to South General Hospital, Edgbaston
#1568
The 3rd (Reserve) Battalion writes to South General Hospital in Edgbaston, directing that orders should be issued for Tolkien's next movements at the ea...
8 December 1916
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1569
Wiseman writes to Tolkien on politics, and the war. Thanking Tolkien for his letter and more of his poems. He says that R.W. Reynolds thinks that Tolkie...
16 December 1916 (postmarked 18 December)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1570
Christopher Wiseman writes to Tolkien, G.B. Smith has died. Smith was injured by shrapnel on 29 November. He wrote to his mother saying that his wounds ...
16 December 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Smith
#1571
After reading the news from Christopher Wiseman that their friend G.B. Smith has died, Tolkien immediately writes to Smith's mother to offer his condole...
22 December 1916
Mrs. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1572
G.B. Smith's mother writes to Tolkien giving some details of Geoffrey's final days. She asks Tolkien if he could send to her copies of her son's poems a...
c. 22 December 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Reynolds
#1575
Tolkien writes to R.W. Reynolds. From Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull's entry for '28 December 1916', Tolkien must have discussed G.B. Smith, and h...
c. 23-24 December 1916
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Smith
#1573
Tolkien replies to G.B. Smiths mother enclosing copies of G.B. Smith's verse.
26 December 1916
Mrs. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1574
G.B. Smith's mother replies to Tolkien thanking him for the poems of her son's. She tells Tolkien to keep the originals.
28 December 1916
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1576
Reynolds replies to Tolkien's letter, he notes that he has had a letter from Smith's mother too in which she says her son had wished for his poetry to b...
1917
2 January 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Secretary War Office
#29
Tolkien advises the war department of his address and presents himself for further orders.
18 January 1917
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1577
Wiseman apologizes for his not writing sooner, he says that he had been trying, and this was the fifth attempt. He remarks that he is happy that Tolkien...
21 January 1917
Mrs. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1578
G.B. Smith's mother writes to Tolkien thanking him, and Reynolds for their help in the matter of her son's poetry. Tolkien is currently staying at his A...
c. February 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1582
Only noted by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull in their entry for '4 and 9 March 1917', Tolkien had replied to Wiseman's letter suggesting that he m...
12 February 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to War Office
#1579
Tolkien writes to the War Office from Great Haywood where he is currently residing to inform them of this change of address. On 23 January he was examin...
Beginning of March 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Smith
#1580
Tolkien has learned of the death of G.B. Smith's brother and writes to their mother, assumed to be his offering of sympathy. Smith's brother died on 25 ...
c. March 1917 (no later than the morning of 4 March)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1584
Tolkien writes to Wiseman saying that Edith is now with him at Harrogate.
4 and 9 March 1917
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1583
Wiseman writes to Tolkien in reply to an earlier letter from Tolkien, in which Tolkien had replied about the "epic" Wiseman suggests he start on. Wisema...
6 March 1917
Mrs. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1581
Smith’s mother replies to Tolkien's letter of sympathy to thank him.
14 April 1917
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1585
Christopher Wiseman sends a telegram to Tolkien to say that will visit him on 18 April.
c. 15 April 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1586
Tolkien replies to Wiseman to say he has to report for military duty on 19 April.
15 April 1917 (postmark)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1587
Wiseman writes a follow-up letter to his telegram , he is on leave and will visit Tolkien and Edith on 18 April. Tolkien had replied with a telegram say...
19 May 1917
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1588
Writing to Tolkien, Wiseman returns the manuscripts of G.B. Smith's verse noting that does not think the book should be "Opera Omnia", suggesting it sho...
?Late June-early July 1917
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1589
Christopher Wiseman returns G.B. Smith's poems to Tolkien and notes a suggested order for them. He again suggests that only the best of his verse be inc...
12 July 1917
?Unknown Army Department to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1591
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at Thirtle Bridge Camp, Withernsea. No details are known currently.
14 July 1917
?Unknown Army Department to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1590
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at "R.E. Signal Depot, Dunstable, Bedfordshire". No details are known currently.
21 July 1917
?Unknown Army Department to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1592
A letter from an unknown department to Tolkien at "R.E. Signal Depot, Dunstable, Bedfordshire", redirected to Thirtle Bridge Camp, Withernsea. No detail...
10 October 1917 (written 1 September, 7 and 10 October, 1917)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1594
Tolkien had written to Wiseman after hearing of the death of his mother. Wiseman congratulates Tolkien on the news that he and Edith are expecting a chi...
10 September 1917
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1881
Hilary writes to Tolkien giving updates on his current circumstances. He asks him to send his wishes to Edith. He will write to her, but not for a few d...
c. November 1917 (no later than 22 November)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Marjorie Incledon
#1596
Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that Mary Incledon had written to Tolkien in response to either a conversation or a letter between her sister ...
c. Late November 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1597
At an unknown date, no earlier than 16 November, 1917, Tolkien writes to Wiseman informing him of the birth of his son John Francis Reuel. He also asks ...
c. 16 November 1917
May Incledon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2072
Edith had given birth to their first child, John, on 16 November but she had a difficult time. Tolkien could get leave for a few days and Aunt May write...
19 November 1917
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1593
Reynolds writes to Tolkien offering congratulations on the birth of his and Edith's first child. He thanks Tolkien for a parcel, and for including his p...
23 November 1917 (postmark)
Mary Incledon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1595
Tolkien had written a letter, or talked with Marjorie Incledon about the art critic John Ruskin in connection with his Ishness paintings. Mary Incledon ...
?10 ?17 ?20 December 1917
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1598
Replying to Tolkien's letter on the birth of his son, Christopher Wiseman replies offering his congratulations. He insists that he is regarded as an unc...
1918
c. 25 July 1918
Edith Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1599
From 25 July, Edith writes to Tolkien from 1 Blenheim, Parade, Pittsville. No details are known of how many letters but we can be fairly certain that sh...
1 October 1918
?J.R.R. Tolkien ?War Office (see note) to Ministry of Labour
#1600
Tolkien had been authorized by the War Office to take up sedentary employment. Either he or they apply to the Ministry of Labour in this matter.
5 October 1918
Ministry of Labour to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1601
Further to #TCGLetter1600, 'The Ministry of Labour, Appointments Department, Officers’ University and Technical Classes (OUTC), Professional and Busin...
14 October 1918
J.R.R. Tolkien to Controller of the Officers’ University and Technical Classes (OUTC)
#1602
Per his medical examine at the King’s Lancashire Military Convalescent Hospital, Blackpool, Tolkien writes to the OUTC.
c. 28 October 1918
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Wiseman
#1604
Tolkien writes to Wiseman while he is at sea and the letter takes seven weeks to reach him. No details are known of the letter. Wiseman replies on 16 De...
16 December 1918
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1603
Wiseman is on leave in London and has received a letter that Tolkien had sent to him more than seven weeks earlier. He has been informed that Tolkien is...
27 December 1918
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1605
Wiseman apologizes that he was unable to visit Tolkien in Oxford but he has now to return to HMS Monarch afterwhich he will take up his teaching post at...
1919
8 July 1919
War Office to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1606
On 7 July, Tolkien was examined at the Medical Board and was declared unfit for general service but was fit for 'home service'. He is ordered "to return...
4 September 1919
Ministry of Pensions to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1607
Tolkien is informed by the Ministry of Pensions that he has been awarded a pension of £35 a year, for the period 16 July to 6 December 1919. An enclose...
11 November 1919
Ministry of Pensions to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1608
Tolkien had informed the Ministry that he was still suffering from disability and they write to direct him into a hostel (or colony) for treatment. They...
1920
17 March 1920
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Duncan
#47
A two page letter sent from 1 Alfred Street, St. Giles, Oxford, 17 March 1920, to Miss Duncan, enclosing a "mixed bag" of 50 possible examination questi...
7 June 1920
Henry Bradley to Leeds University (letter of recomendation)
#907
Henry Bradley writes a letter of recomendation to Leeds University where Tolkien has applied for the position of Reader of English Language. Bradley had...
26 June 1920
George S. Gordon to R.W. Chapman
#1335
Writing to R.W. Chapman, George S. Gordon, Tolkien's co-editor on the Clarendon Chaucer project for Oxford University Press says that his staffing is mu...
25 July 1920
George S. Gordon to Mary C. Gordon
#1336
George S. Gordon writes to his wife from Magdalen College, Oxford. He saw Tolkien and will dine with him on Tuesday 27, July.
c. Late 1920
J.R.R. Tolkien to Liverpool University: Department of English
#1610
Tolkien took up his position at Leeds in June 1920 but within months had applied for two positions elsewhere. The first of these was at the University o...
c. Late 1920
J.R.R. Tolkien to Cape Town University: Department of English
#1611
Tolkien took up his position at Leeds in June 1920 but within months had applied for two positions elsewhere. The first of these was at the University o...
22 December 1920
Father Christmas to John Tolkien
#1926
This letter, the first of Tolkien's series of Father Christmas Letters written for his children, was dated 22 December 1920. It is addressed to John but...
1921
8 January 1921
John Johnson to Henry [H.W.C.] Davis
#1697
John Johnson of the Oxford University Press writes to the historian Henry David on the matter of the proposed Middle English series of texts. He notes t...
14 February 1921
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Johnson
#1612
Tolkien and Johnson had met on 12 February when Tolkien handed over material for A Middle English Vocabulary. Tolkien had forgotten to include a revised...
16 August 1921
C.T. Onions to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1613
C.T. Onions writes to Tolkien to say that he will hopefully see him and Edith on 19 August in Oxford. They will be there to conclude business on their m...
18 October 1921
George S. Gordon to D. (David) Nichol Smith
#1337
George S. Gordon tells D. Nichol Smith that he is overwhelmed at the Honours School, now numbering some 120 students. A committee has now been appointed...
29 October 1921
George S. Gordon to D. (David) Nichol Smith
#1338
Tolkien had suggested E.V. Gordon for a position who is currently "B-Litting", to which George S. Gordon asks David Nichol Smith if he knows him, and he...
Christmas 1921
Father Christmas to John Tolkien
#2227
No letter is known for this year, but it is presumed that one was sent.
1922
Early 1922
J.R.R. Tolkien to Oxford University Press
#1614
Tolkien sends the completed manuscript of his A Middle English Vocabulary which was intended to be part of Kenneth Sisam's Fourteenth Century Verse and ...
8 February 1922
C.T. Onions to John Johnson
#1615
C.T. Onions writing to John Johnson of the Oxford University Press asks about the position which is being taken by the press in relation to the proposed...
11 March 1922
J.R.R. Tolkien to Oxford University Press
#1616
Tolkien returns most of the proofs for A Middle English Vocabulary, with significant corrections. In a cover note he apologizes for his delay, he is onl...
26 June 1922
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dr. Henry Bradley
#69
Tolkien sends a postcard to Henry Bradley. Tolkien had worked with Bradley on the Oxford English Dictionary. He hopes Bradley has recovered from his rec...
Late July 1922
J.R.R. Tolkien to Leeds University
#1617
Tolkien unsuccessfully applies for the position left vacant by George S. Gordon's resignation to take up the Merton Professor's chair at Oxford. Though ...
August 1922
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hilary Tolkien
#2369
Postcard of the Tolkien family on holiday at Filey in North Yorkshire. A holiday at the same location a few years later was probably the inspiration for...
Christmas 1922
Father Christmas to John Tolkien
#2228
No letter is known for this year, but it is presumed that one was sent.
1923
13 February 1923
J.R.R. Tolkien to E. M. Wright
#6
Carpenter #6
Tolkien writes to the wife of Joseph Wright thanking her for sending him her article about Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and some kind comments about ...
30 May 1923
J.R.R. Tolkien, Wilfred Rowland Childe to Editor, Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer
#1154
Tolkien together with the poet Wilfred Rowland Childe wrote to the Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer to defend the World War One (WW1) memorial by ...
12 June 1923
George S. Gordon to Herbert Davis
#1339
Herbert Davis appears to inform George S. Gordon that Tolkien is ill, but that he had heard from E.V. Gordon that Tolkien was on the mend and would be OK.
14 June 1923
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1618
George S Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam mentioning Tolkien's involvement in the Clarendon Chaucer. The book will be published in OUP's 'Clarendon Englis...
27 July 1923
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1619
Following his letter of 14 June, Gordon writes again to Kenneth Sisam. Tolkien has agreed to provide the glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer and will beg...
16 October 1923 (date forwarded by Gordon)
J.R.R. Tolkien to George S. Gordon (forwarded to Kenneth Sisam)
#1621
Tolkien had written to Gordon which Gordon forwards to Sisam. Tolkien had raised points on the Clarendon Chaucer, especially the 'Prologue to the Canter...
10 November 1923
E. V. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1620
During the academic year of 1923-24, Tolkien and and his co-editor on the Sir Gawain volume have been snowed under with lectures and preperation for the...
13 November 1923
Kenneth Sisam to E.V. Gordon
#1622
Kenneth replies to Gordon's letter agreeing to a revised page count for Sir Gawain, Gordon and Tolkien's edition can now contain 200 pages. He asks for ...
15 November 1923
E. V. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1623
Gordon replies to Sisam's letter of 13 November , Gordon accepts the conditions for publication of Sir Gawain. They will restrict the glossary to 50 pag...
Last half of December 1923
Oxford University Press? to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1625
Tolkien receives proofs of the Clarendon Chaucer text and begins correcting them.
8 December 1923
E. V. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1624
In a letter to Kenneth Sisam, Gordon reports that he and Tolkien will be able to provide Sisam with the text of Sir Gawain soon. The notes are almost co...
14 December 1923
E. V. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1626
Gordon sends to Sisam a clean copy of the Sir Gawain text and notes that Tolkien has been able to purchase a copy of Thorkelin's Beowulf.
Christmas Eve 1923
Father Christmas to John Tolkien
#1927
Writing to John Tolkien, Father Christmas tells him that he is "nineteen hundred and twenty four, no! seven! years old". Remarking he is much older than...
1924
5 January 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam (for Oxford University Press)
#1627
Tolkien returns the first 21 pages of proofs for the Clarendon Chaucer and notes some errors. In an attached note, Tolkien asks about the glossary for S...
8 January 1924
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1628
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter and agrees with his changes but asks if he could try to keep any changes to punctuation, mainly due to costs. He discu...
14 January 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Raymond Wilson Chambers
#1011
Tolkien wishes Chambers a happy New Year and sends his appreciation for various recent works Tolkien has read.
1 February 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam (for Oxford University Press)
#1629
Tolkien returns further proofs of the Clarendon Chaucer and thanks Sisam for his advice and for two copies of proofs of Sir Gawain whih he had recieved....
26 February 1924
Kenneth Sisam to George S. Gordon
#1637
Sisam writes to Gordon. He has become alarmed at the lack of progress with the Clarendon Chaucer, saying that Tolkien "is occupied with Gawayne> influen...
28 February 1924
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1638
Gordon replies to Sisam's letter defending Tolkien on the matter of the delay on the Clarendon Chaucer. He says that Tolkien has had "a hellish time".
5 March 1924
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1639
Writing to Tolkien, Sisam says that he is patiently expecting the completed Clarendon Chaucer and asks Tolkien to look over some corrections for his A M...
21 March 1924
Kenneth Sisam to David Nichol Smith
#1640
Inspite of his letter to Tolkien early in March, Kenneth Sisam writes to David Nichol Smith to complain that Tolkien is not only holding up the Clarendo...
?May 1924
George S. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1703
Gordon writes to Tolkien on various matters. Tolkien will reply to this letter informing Gordon that he retiring from the project. What Gordon says that...
?May 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to George S. Gordon
#1704
Tolkien replies to Gordon, informing him that he is retiring from the Clarendon Chaucer.
15 May 1924
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1641
Gordon writes to Sisam informing him that Tolkien has agreed that his place on the Clarendon Chaucer should be taken by another and he has agreed to ret...
15 May 1924
Kenneth Sisam to George S. Gordon
#1705
Sisam replies to Gordon's letter. He supports Tolkien leaving the Clarendon Chaucer, noting that Tolkien has too much else getting in the way.
24 August 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Cyril Brett
#1006
A manuscript letter from Tolkien to Cyril Brett, on the subject of Tolkien & Gordon's edition of Sir Gawain & The Green Knight (Oxford, 1925).
2 September 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jöran Sahlgren
#2288
Tolkien writes to Jöran Sahlgren thanking him for his book Nordiska Ortnamn (Nordic Place Names).
23 October 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1642
Sisam had sent Tolkien a proof of the frontispiece for Sir Gawain and two sets of proofs from the Clarendon Chaucer with comments from Gordon and Tolkie...
Early December 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1644
In early December, Tolkien informs Kenneth Sisam that he and his family have been unwell and he is delayed with his work on the Clarendon Chaucer.
5 December 1924
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1645
Sisam replies to Tolkien giving him dates to return the Clarendon Chaucer. He wants the glossary by end of year, 31 December at the latest and the notes...
8 December 1924
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1646
George S. Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam. Tolkien has sent to him manuscript of his glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer, with a preface, for Gordon to lo...
22 December 1924
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1647
George S. Gordon sends to Kenneth Sisam the manuscript of Tolkien’s glossary and preface for the Clarendon Chaucer with a note to say that he approves...
23 December 1924
Kenneth Sisam to George S. Gordon
#1648
Further to Gordon's packet enclosing Tolkien's glossary and preface, Sisam replies with a stern warning that if Tolkien commits to as many corrections o...
23 December 1924
Father Christmas to John Tolkien
#1928
As with #TCGLetter1929, he says to John that is short of time. He says that his "sleigh is waiting", noting that there are a lot more stockings to fill ...
23 December 1924
Father Christmas to Michael Tolkien
#1929
Father Christmas writes to Michael but has no time. He hopes that Michael's "engine goes well". Polar Bear adds a post script noting that Michael should...
1925
Unknown
Dr. Cyril Jackson to Unknown
#869
From a Bloomsbury auction the following was detailed: Songs for the Philologists, with the book comes a typed letter from Dr. Cyril Jackson, who studied...
Unknown (possibly mid 1920's)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Swann
#882
This rather odd loose slip of paper was found inside a copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and is housed as part of the Bodleian Library Tolkien arc...
5 January 1925
Kenneth Sisam to George S. Gordon
#1649
Sisam writes to Gordon saying that the glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer must be cut down by 10 pages. He tells Gordon that he will leave it to him to e...
5 January 1925
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1650
Kenneth Sisam writes to Tolkien, enclosing the manuscripts for his glossary, and tells Tolkien to leave out "easy words". He had written that day to Gor...
26 January 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to Joseph Wright
#48
Tolkien congratulates Wright on his retirement. Brief extracts were published in The Life of Joseph Wright Vol.2 p.651
2 February 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to Cyril Brett
#1007
A manuscript letter from Tolkien to Cyril Brett, on the subject of Tolkien & Gordon's edition of Sir Gawain & The Green Knight (Oxford, 1925).
5 February 1925
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1651
Sisam writes to Tolkien, reminding him that he was meant to have handed in his notes on the Clarendon Chaucer by the end of January.
Late February or early March 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to George S. Gordon
#1693
Tolkien sends his revised glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer to George S. Gordon.
4 March 1925
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1694
George S. Gordon sends Tolkien's revised glossary of the Clarendon Chaucer to Kenneth Sisam. In the covering note he says that he feels Tolkien's prefac...
23 March 1925
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1695
Kenneth Sisam sends Tolkien an advance copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, noting that some changes will be made. Oxford University Press will add ...
[2] May 1925 (date-stamped)
Oxford University Press to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1696
Either from Kenneth Sisam or the OUP, Tolkien is sent proofs of his glossary for the Clarendon Chaucer]/i]. George S. Gordon had corrected some galley p...
June 1925
Lascelles Abercrombie to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1711
Lascelles Abercrombie writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon...
12 June 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ronald Ashton
#50
Tolkien writes to Mr. Ashton about his son, who is a student at the University of Leeds. He may not be able to take the degree he was hoping for, and To...
17 June 1925
M.E. Sadler to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1706
M.E. Sadler writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford...
22 June 1925
Joseph Wright to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1708
Joseph Wright writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxfo...
23 June 1925
L.R. Farnell to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1707
Lewis Richard Farnell writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon...
25 June 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to [University of Oxford Electors]
#7
Carpenter #7
Tolkien applies for the position of 'Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University'. He describes his schooling and his time at Leeds University as ...
25 June 1925
Allen Mawer to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1710
Allen Mawer writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford...
28 June 1925
George S. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1709
George S. Gordon writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application to the vacant seat of Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon at O...
21 July 1925
E.S. Craig to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1721
E.S. Craig, University Registrar at Oxford writes to Tolkien offering his congratulations on his successful application to the chair of Rawlinson and Bo...
22 July 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to Vice Chancellor of Leeds University
#8
Carpenter #8
Tolkien has been elected to the Rawlinson & Bosworth professorship at Oxford and must therefore resign his position at Leeds. His posting takes effect f...
22 July 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to H.F.B. Brett-Smith
#67
This handwritten letter over 2 pages finds Tolkien discussing academia at Leeds University and his own poetry. Brett-Smith had written Tolkien a letter ...
22 July 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.S. Craig
#1722
Tolkien replies to E.S. Craig, enclosing the signed undertaking. He hopes that the statutes governing the chair can be mitigated as he has to give six m...
24 July 1925
E.S. Craig to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1723
E.S. Craig replies to Tolkien's letter . He says that Tolkien should be able to work both Leeds and Oxford during the Michaelmas term. He includes a sch...
7 August 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Chambers
#1724
Tolkien writes to R.W. Chambers complaining that he has only recently finished marking School Certification exam papers, which he had to do to pay medic...
8 August 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to H.F.B. Brett-Smith
#68
As with Tolkien's ealier letter this handwritten letter finds Tolkien again discussing academia at Leeds University. He promises Brett-Smith that he wil...
Before 12 November 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon (testimonial)
#1726
Tolkien writes a letter in support of E.V. Gordon's proposed elevation to the chair he himself vacated to take up the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorsh...
?18 (received 19) October 1925
George S. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#1725
George S. Gordon sends to Kenneth Sisam a batch of manuscripts for the Clarendon Chaucer. AMong them texts, notes for the essays and he says that Tolkie...
End of 1925
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1727
In their J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide: Chronology, Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that "Tolkien resumes correspondence with R.W. Reynol...
21 November 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to Brian Woledge
#1003
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. The contents of this letter is currently unknown. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Col...
Christmas 1925
Father Christmas to John and Michael Tolkien
#1930
Father Christmas, writing to John and Michael, remarks how busy he is. Some of the presents which were due to be delivered for Christmas had been damage...
1926
First part of 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Reynolds
#1729
In late 1925, Tolkien and Reynolds began to write to each other again, and in early 1926, Tolkien sends to Reynolds various poems, including Lay of Leit...
11 March 1926 (date of appointment)
J.R.R. Tolkien (part of Committee) to Hebdomadal Council
#1730
Noted by Hammond/Scull, Tolkien "is appointed to a committee to draft a reply to a letter from the Hebdomadal Council on the duties and payments of exam...
?26 April 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1013
Tolkien writes to Kenneth Sisam with news that he has finished his modern prose translation of Beowulf. Much of the letter remains unpublished but a por...
4 May 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to A. H. Smith
#1819
A one-page typewritten letter of recommendation JRRT wrote on behalf of A. H. Smith, recommending him “for an appointment as lecturer and teacher of E...
2 June 1926 (date published)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Walter E. Haigh
#1864
On 2 June, 1926, the Huddersfield Daily Examiner published a short piece on W. E. Haigh's A New Glossary of the Dialect of the Huddersfield District for...
15 June 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to Brian Woledge
#1004
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. Very little is known of the contents. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Collection.
17 June 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to Brian Woledge
#1005
Tolkien wrote to Brian Woledge, who was an ex-student. Few details are known on the letters contents. One of three letters from the Leeds Library Collec...
25 June 1926
J.R.R. Tolkien to William G. Harding
#70
Very little is known about this letter beyond the minor details given by Hammond/Scull. Tolkien had replied to William G. Harding about the word gemowe,...
5 July, 1926
Cecil Lewis to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1053
Cecil Lewis of Lincoln College writes to Tolkien in regard to Tolkien's entry in the Year's Work in English Studies. He notes that "On page 43 you sugge...
20 December 1926
Father Christmas to John and Michael Tolkien
#1931
As with Tolkien's previous year's letter, Father Christmas writes to John and Michael. He opens with mention of his shaky hand, blaming North Polar Bear...
1927
12 March 1927
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ronald Ashton
#66
Tolkien offers to write a testimonial for Ashton. He remarks that Oxford is very focused on the motor trade.
21 October 1927*
J.R.R. Tolkien to Willard G. Harding
#71
Tolkien replies to another inquiry from William G. Harding, this time about the etymology of the word 'sag'.
21 December 1927
Father Christmas to John, Michael and Christopher Tolkien, also Aslaug, Mummy, Auntie Jennie, and Daddy
#1939
Father Christmas's letter for 1927 was the first to include Christopher, and other members of the Tolkien family, and others connected with the Tolkien ...
Christmas 1927 (Arrived as part of a letter from January 7 1928)
John Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1883
John Suffield sends a 'Christmas Letter' to Hilary. He had expected to not make another Christmas and notes as such on the card.
1928
1928 or 1929
Walter Incledon to Marjorie Incledon
#1893
This letter, mentioned only briefly in Wheelbarrows at Dawn discusses family matters of the Incledon family.
7 January 1928
John Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1882
Writing to Hilary, John Suffield gives family news. Hilary's cousin, Donald John Suffield reports that his father has died. He details the area where he...
20 December 1928
Father Christmas to John, Michael and Christopher Tolkien
#1940
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien boys, John, Michael, and Christopher wishing them a merry Christmas and offering details of his and his household...
Boxing Day 1928
Father Christmas to John, Michael and Christopher Tolkien
#2222
Further to their #TCGLetter1940, the boys receive a second letter on Boxing Day. FC blames Polar Bear for this. Polar Bear adds on the envelope that it ...
1929
2 January 1929
J.R.R. Tolkien to Eric Valentine Gordon
#72
Gordon was intending to start an Icelandic collection at Leeds. Tolkien writes to him on the matter. Included with this letter was a copy of Tolkien's p...
20 May 1929
J.R.R. Tolkien, C.T. Onions, H.C. Wyld to Secretary of Faculties, University of Oxford
#1731
Hammond/Scull note that Tolkien, Onions, and Wyld sign a letter to the Secretary of Faculties on appointing a lecturer to teach English Language. They n...
November 1929
Polar Bear to Boys (John, Michael, and Christopher)
#2223
Polar Bear writes a letter to the "boys", John, Michael, and Christopher in November 1929. He says that his paw is better after cutting Christmas trees....
7 December 1929
C.S. Lewis to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1732
C.S. Lewis writes to Tolkien. He has sat up all night reading the Lay of Leithian and is delighted with it. He has yet to finish but Hammond/Scull note ...
22 December 1929
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1941
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children, including six month old Priscilla, the Tolkien's last child. FC says that it has been light as the Nort...
31 December 1929
R.W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2267
Blackwell's Rare Books description
1930
September 1930
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1630
Sisam writes to ask Tolkien if he would be interested to be part of an edition of the Ancrene Riwle.
21 November 1930
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1631
In reply to Kenneth Sisam's letter, Tolkien replies that he would be interested to take part in an edition of the Ancrene Riwle. He in fact already has ...
25 November 1930
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1632
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter and approves of Tolkien's intention to try to finish the Clarendon Chaucer.
28 November 1930
Father Christmas to John, Michael, and Christopher Tolkien
#2224
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, and Christopher. He has received their letters, remarking how big their lists are. He says that he is getting ...
Christmas Eve 1930
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1942
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children saying that he "enjoyed" all their letters. He has had no time and only finished the letter on Christmas...
28 December 1930
George S. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1633
After Tolkien had criticized to Kenneth Sisam, the lack of progress on the Clarendon Chaucer and bemaoned the fact that his notes had not been returned ...
1931
22 January 1931
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1634
Tolkien writes to Sisam. He has done as much work on the Clarendon Chaucer as possible during his "shattered vac". He is now to be snowed under with wor...
24 February 1931
J.R.R. Tolkien, and thirteen others to General Board (Oxford University)
#1635
Tolkien, with thirteen others, signs a letter to the "General Board, requesting that the Chair of Comparative Philology be raised from Grade B to Grade A."
24 February 1931
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1884
Father Francis Morgan writes to Hilary to congratulate him on the birth of his son. He wishes that he could perform the baptism but is now unable to tra...
7 April 1931
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1636
Sisam replies to Tolkien explaining that the Clarendon Chaucer should have less notes than in a typical 'school' edition, suggesting that notes should b...
9 April 1931
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1740
Kenneth Sisam forwards on a letter from a correpsondent who had asked about a possible connection aliri, a Middle English word, and aleary which appeare...
26 August 1931
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1885
Father Francis Morgan replies to Hilary. He has been away for three weeks "at the Shaws and the other half at the Richmond Convent in Yorkshire." While ...
18 October 1931
C.S. Lewis to Arthur Greeves
#1741
26 October 1931
Robert Chapman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1698
Robert Chapman replies to a letter from Tolkien, encouraging him to finish the Clarendon Chaucer.
26 October 1931
Robert Chapman to David Nichol Smith
#1699
Robert Chapman writes to David Nichol Smith after hearing from Tolkien who it appears will knuckle down and complete his parts on the Clarendon Chaucer.
c. 1931-32
J.R.R. Tolkien to Oxford University Press
#2296
During Tolkien's renewed desire to tackle the Clalrendon Chaucer, he remarks to OUP that he has learned a lot over the last few years and should deliver...
30 October 1931
Robert Chapman to George S. Gordon
#1700
Robert Chapman writes to George S. Gordon asking if he can finish the Clarendon Chaucer without Tolkien.
31 October 1931
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#2225
Father Christmas writes to the Tolkien children, noting that he has already received letters from them. He has not started on the Christmas jobs yet and...
22 November 1931
C.S. Lewis to Warren H. Lewis
#1742
Writing to his brother, C. S. Lewis gives updates on his life and work. he makes a brief mention to Tolkien visiting him on Monday mornings to "drink a ...
2 December 1931
R.E.M. Wheeler to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1743
R.E.M. Wheeler writes to Tolkien on the news that the Society of Antiquaries will publish a report on the excavations at Lydney Park, Gloucestershire. W...
c. 3 and 8 December 1931
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.E.M. Wheeler
#1744
Replying to Wheeler's letter. He mentions the possible connections between the names Nuada, Lludd, and Lydney. In July 1932 Tolkien’s note "The Name '...
c. 3 and 11 December 1931
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen Mawer
#1746
Tolkien writes a letter to the noted scholar, Allen Mawer, on the subject of the word Lydney. This letter is almost certainly in connection to Tolkien's...
9 December 1931
R.E.M. Wheeler to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1747
Wheeler replies to Tolkien's letter with thanks for his note. He suggests that Tolkien retain his note on 'Nodens' for the time being while he (Wheeler)...
c. 10 December 1931 - 1 January 1932
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.E.M. Wheeler
#1749
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that Wheeler wrote to Tolkien on 2 January 1932, asking Tolkien to return to 'Nodens' note, but that Tolkien had ...
12 December 1931
Allen Mawer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1748
Mawer replies to Tolkien's letter on Lydney. He says that he himself has looked into the name but has not been able to come to any concrete conclusions.
23 December 1931
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1943
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher, and Priscilla. He hopes the "little things" he has sent to them. The boys are "interested in Rail...
1932
2 January 1932
R.E.M. Wheeler to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1750
Wheeler writes asking Tolkien to return the 'Nodens' proof as the publisher is asking for it. But later on the same day, the note arrives as Tolkien had...
2 January 1932
R.E.M. Wheeler to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1751
Wheeler writes a second letter to Tolkien thanking him for sending the proof note on 'Nodens'. In July 1932 Tolkien’s note 'The Name ‘Nodens’' is ...
May 1932* (see note)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Secretary of the Education Committee of the British Esperanto Association
#73
A Philologist on Esperanto is the title given to a letter (written in the early part of 1932) from J.R.R. Tolkien to the secretary of the Education Comm...
27 May 1932
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.F. Colborn
#74
Letter of recommendation for his B.Litt. student A. F. Colborn.
c. (before 30) August 1932
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1752
Tolkien writes to Kenneth Sisam asking if the Old English Exodus had been influenced by early Gallican Psalters.
30 August 1932
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1753
Sisam replies to Tolkien's letter on the subject of the Old English Exodus and its possible influence from Gallican Psalters. The contents of the letter...
25 October 1932
J.R.R. Tolkien to Robert Chapman
#1701
Tolkien writes to Robert Chapman saying that he must finish the Clarendon Chaucer or else he will lose his good will with the Clarendon Press. Tolkien s...
27 October 1932
Robert Chapman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1754
Writing to Tolkien, Chapman offers to help with typing and urges Tolkien to get the Clarendon Chaucer off his mind. He believes that a Beowulf edition, ...
30 November 1932
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#2226
Father Christmas thanks the children for the letters they sent to him at the North Pole. FC says that he is worries because Polar Bear has gone missing ...
12 December 1932
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2417
Kenneth Sisam writing to Tolkien on the subject of a collation of relevant Latin texts in the psalters. Tolkien in reply, #TCGLetter1768, will mention h...
18 December 1932
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1768
Writing to Kenneth Sisam, Tolkien informs him that Sigelwara Land will be published over three volumes of Medium Ævum. He thanks Sisam, likely for the ...
23 December 1932
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1954
Father Christmas, writing to the Tolkien children says he has much to tell them. He says that they heard funny noises underground at the North Pole and ...
1933
4 February 1933
C.S. Lewis to Arthur Greeves
#1769
Writing to his friend, Arthur Greaves, Lewis mentions among other matters, that he has been reading "a delightful... children's story Tolkien has just w...
March 1933
J.R.R. Tolkien to Meccano Magazine
#2207
Tolkien advertises in the March 1933 Meccano Magazine.
16 March 1933
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#75
Tolkien confirms that he will visit Boar's Hill on the Saturday. Tolkien is pleased as he was furnished with a copy of the Oxford English Dictionary by ...
25 March 1933*
C.S. Lewis to Arthur Greeves
#1770
In a letter to his friend, Arthur Greaves, Lewis mentions his conversation with Tolkien in which they discuss, among other things, their agreement that ...
May 1933*
J.R.R. Tolkien, and others to The British Esperantist
#2416
Signed by: T. GRAHAME BAILEY, M.A., B.D., D.Lirr., Reader in Urdu and Hindustami, University of London. T. C. BAILLIE, M.A., D.Sc., Principal, West Ham ...
20 August 1933 (and other undated letter from this period)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Sigurður Nordal
#793
In the first letter sent to Sigurður Nordal, dated August 20th 1933, Tolkien mentions that the diploma of honorary membership of the Bókmentāfélag a...
?October 1933
J.R.R. Tolkien to Convents of the Sacred Heart
#1771
Tolkien sends his poem 'Firiel' to the Convents of the Sacred Heart (at Our Lady's School, Abingdon) to be published in their Chronicle of the Convents ...
2 November 1933
Convents of the Sacred Heart to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1772
A member of the Convents of the Sacred Heart writes to Tolkien to acknowledge that they have received his poem 'Firiel'.
2 December 1933
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#2219
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He says that the business of Christmas has begun and it has been very cold. He has ...
21 December 1933
J.R.R. Tolkien to Raymond Wilson Chambers
#77
Thanking Chambers for his note and registering his sorrow at Chambers recent ill health. He offers his best wishes for 1934. He also encloses a report f...
21 December 1933
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1955
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla saying that in November they were attacked by Goblins and Christmas almost did not h...
1934
21 January 1934
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Tolkien
#1364
Carpenter #8a
Writing to his son John, Tolkien asks about the credits he will take and also that he noted that his German books remained in his trunk after his holida...
18 April 1934
Elaine Griffiths to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1773
Tolkien's B.Litt. student, and later close friend, Elaine Griffiths, sends Tolkien references to a manuscript he had asked her to prepare on the Ancrene...
21 June 1934
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1886
In reply to Hilary's "interesting letter", Father Francis replies with news on happenings. He is happy to know the latest on Hilary's "mission" and note...
16 September 1934
J.R.R. Tolkien to David Nichol Smith
#1798
Tolkien sends his essay Chaucer as a Philologist: The Reeve's Tale, to David Nichol Smith. He hopes that Smith will be available to meet him before term...
20 November 1934
Father Christmas to Christopher Tolkien
#2217
Father Christmas writes to Christopher. Written on 20 November, FC remarks that he will not be sending his messengers out until October 15th. He says th...
9 December 1934
R.W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1015
Little is known of this letter to Tolkien from his friend and supporter R.W. (Raymond Wilson) Chambers but a fragment found in The Fall of Arthur is of ...
23 December 1934
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Herbert Cowling
#78
In this letter to G.H. Cowling of Melbourne, Australia, Tolkien opens by explaining his delay in writing. Stating that he is a terrible letter writer, t...
Christmas Eve 1934
Father Christmas to Christopher Tolkien, Priscilla Tolkien
#1956
Father Christmas, writing to Christopher and Priscilla, thanks them for their many letters. He says that he has not had time like previous letters to wr...
1935
3 January 1935
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1887
Father Francis wishes Hilary and his family the best for 1935. He has been laid up with lumbago but is now on the mend.
24 January 1935
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1888
Father Francis replies to Hilary's warm wishes for his birthday and asks him to pass on his thanks to Magdalen and Gabriel for the Violets they sent.
5 April 1935
J.R.R. Tolkien to Priscilla Tolkien
#2244
Tolkien writes to Priscilla, sends her love and kisses in return for a letter.
11 June 1935
Birmingham Oratory to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1799
Father Francis Morgan dies on this date. Tolkien is then informed formally by the Birmingham Oratory. Priscilla Tolkien believes that her father could n...
9 August 1935
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Chambers
#547
This letter concerns R.W. Chambers biography of Thomas More. Quotes from the letter were published in Moreana 94 (June 1987) and Moreana 105 (April 1991).
Autumn 1935
A.H. Smith (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1802
During the autumn of 1935, the Early English Text Society invited Tolkien to prepare an edition of the Ancrene Riwle (MS CCCC402). Tolkien will reply th...
Autumn 1935
J.R.R. Tolkien to Early English Text Society
#1803
Tolkien will reply to A.H. Smith's letter on behalf of the Early English Text Society's invitation to prepare an edition of the Ancrene Riwle. He is kee...
27 September 1935
Oxford University Press to ?J.R.R. Tolkien
#1801
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that the Oxford University Press sends to "Simonne d’Ardenne, and possibly Tolkien, proofs of An Edition of the...
8 December 1935
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father F.V. Reade
#1757
Signed receipt for £1,000 from the executor of the will for Reverend Morgan. Morgan was Tolkien's guardian as a child after his mother passed away.
Christmas Eve 1935
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1957
Father Christmas writes to the John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He says that there is "no ink this year", so he did not draw any pictures, thou...
Late December 1935
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1804
Mabel Day, Secretary of the Early English Text Society, writes Tolkien a letter asking that he confirm his interest in the Ancrene Riwle in writing as r...
1936
?Early 1936 (?sometime between January and April)
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1805
Tolkien is asked by GA&U if he wishes to working on a revision to John R. Clark Hall's Modern English transaltion of Beowulf and The Fight at Finnesburg...
?Early 1936 (?sometime between January and April)
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#1806
Tolkien replies to the early 1936 letter from GA&U that is is too busy to work on a new Beowulf publication but suggests Elaine Griffiths for the task a...
?1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to ?John R. Holmes ?Adrian Morey
#1822
5 January 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mabel Day (Early English Text Society)
#1807
Tolkien writes to Mabel Day of the EETS, firstly apologising for his delayed reply which had been requested by the end of 1935. He explains that his ass...
14 January 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mabel Day (Early English Text Society)
#1810
Tolkien writes to Mabel Day, of the EETS. He has not been able to type the specimen pages that he had promised so includes manuscript transcriptions wit...
15 January 1936
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1811
Mabel Day replies to Tolkien's two letters from January, . She notes that she has sent the first to A.W. Pollard, and explains some of the policies of t...
15 January 1936
A.W. Pollard (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1812
A.W. Pollard replies to Tolkien's letter, which Mabel Day had forwarded to him. Hhe explains to Tolkien that while he sees advantages to reproducing the...
16 January 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mabel Day (Early English Text Society)
#1813
Replying to Mabel Day of the EETS, Tolkien thanks her for answering his questions about the EETS' policies on texts and arguing for his view that they s...
?16 January 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.W. Pollard (Early English Text Society)
#1814
Tolkien writes to A.W. Pollard of the EETS on or shortly after this date. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that two versions of this letter exist,...
27 January 1936
A.W. Pollard (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1815
A.W. Pollard writes to Tolkien to inform him that Robin Flower has been asked to head up the Ancrene Riwle editions at the EETS and that Tolkien's speci...
1 March 1936
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1816
Mabel Day sends Tolkien some possible corrections and ammendations for his A Middle English Vocabulary. She notes that she believes that Tolkien and Rob...
9 March 1936
Simonne d'Ardenne to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1817
Writing to Tolkiem, Simonne d'Ardenne asking how his recovery is coming along after his injury. She will update him on her viva once she knows a date an...
30 March 1936
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1809
C. A. Furth writes to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark-Hall edition of Beowulf. GA&U are keen for Tolkien to edit a new edition, or suggest a likely c...
April or May 1936
Rev. Adrian Morey to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1818
Reverend Adrian Morey writes to Tolkien, informing him that he has found an Anglo-Saxon version of the Lord's Prayer while at the British Museum. He ask...
c. June to August 1936
Aurelius Pompen to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1830
Some time in 1936, Aurelius Pompen had written to Tolkien asking if he and his family could take a paid guest for Michaelmas term, 1936.
3 June 1936
E. V. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1823
Gordon writes to Tolkien as he had said nothing about the marking system for examinations. He goes on to note that he has read Seinte Iuliene. He is ups...
3 to 11 June 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#1824
Tolkien replies to Gordon's letter concerning marking systems.
11 June 1936
E. V. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1825
Gordon replies to Tolkien's letter asking about the vivas which will be held in London on 12 June. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note that Tolkien "...
28 June 1936
C.S. Lewis to Owen Barfield
#2212
Tolkien's children had been lent Barfield's book The Silver Trumpet by C.S. Lewis and very much enjoyed it.
21 July 1936
?Guy Pocock (BBC) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1826
The BBC writes to Tolkien for permission to broadcast a portion of his translation of the Middle English poem Pearl. Tolkien will reply on the same day ...
21 July 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to ?Guy Pocock (BBC)
#1827
Tolkien replies to the BBC's request to broadcast a portion of his translation of Pearl. He gives permission for the reading.
10 August 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1367
Carpenter #8b
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
13 September 1936
Rev. Adrian Morey to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1828
Re. Adrian Morey writes to Tolkien. Tolkien had advised him to write an article on the 'Our Father' prayer in Anglo-Saxon, but Morey says that he has de...
25 September 1936
Simonne d'Ardenne to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1829
Simonne d'Ardenne writes to Tolkien to say that once she has finished her latest article, on the Brussels Cross, she will send it on to him to read. She...
27 September 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Aurelius Pompen
#79
Reverend Father Aurelius Pompen (Professor of English at the Catholic University of Nijmegen) had contacted Tolkien asking if the family could take in a...
c. 27 September 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Tombrock
#1831
After failing to reply to Aurelius Pompen's letter earlier, Tolkien finally replies days before the start of Michaelmas term, 1936. Tolkien sends a note...
3 October 1936 (received 5 October)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1832
Tolkien sends the completed typescipt for the Hobbit and one illustration, likely one of his maps. Allen and Unwin will receive them two days later on 5...
5 October 1936
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1833
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien to acknowledge receipt of the typescripts for the Hobbit. He also asks Tolkien to see his translation of Pearl, which th...
21 October 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1368
Carpenter #8c
Tolkien sends birthday wishes for his son Michael. He says that he has heard from John that he is short of cash and apologizes for his lack of help but ...
26 October 1936
R.W. Chapman to George S. Gordon
#1836
R.W. Chapman writes to George S. Gordon who it is assumed had mentioned Tolkien's increased salary. He is pleased, and also that Tolkien has been awarde...
28 October 1936
George S. Gordon to R.W. Chapman
#1837
Gordon replies to Chapman's letter saying that he believes that Tolkien has finished his parts on the Clarendon Chaucer, but that they are finished to a...
30 October 1936
Rayner Unwin to Sir Stanley Unwin
#1176
Sir Stanley Unwin's son Rayner was paid to write a review of a book that was being considered for publication, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
2 November 1936
Father Christmas to Unknown
#2208
On 2 November 1936 Father Christmas writes a list of various toys which is then struck through. Among them, "Dolls", "Noah's Ark", "Crackers", and "Bear...
5 November 1936
George S. Gordon to R.W. Chapman
#1838
Following his letter to R.W. Chapman, Gordon must have spoken with Tolkien as he replies that "Tolkien will have another try."
2 December 1936
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1839
Stanley Unwin sends to Tolkien the contract duplicate. This is noted by Hammond/Scull as the final step for accepting the Hobbit for publication and on ...
4 December 1936
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1840
Further to her visit to see Tolkien, Susan Dagnall sends Tolkien a revised specimen page of The Hobbit and asks him to write a short blurb for GA&U to u...
8 December 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
#1841
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall's letter. He includes the blurb for publicity on the Hobbit. He does not like the star ornament at the beginning of the...
10 December 1936
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2242
Susan Dagnall, at George Allen & Unwin, gives Tolkien feedback from the production department about adjustments that will need to be made to the five pr...
23 December 1936
Father Christmas, llbereth, secretary to Fr Christmas and Polar Bear to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1958
Father Christmas writes to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla. He opens with apologies for his short letter, including a picture to show what had ...
1937
1937-1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Registry University of Oxford, King Edward VI School, Birmingham
#1168
This entry covers various letters between Tolkien, the Registry University of Oxford and King Edward VI School, Birmingham, relating to Tolkien’s tenu...
4 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
#9
Carpenter #9
Tolkien details work he has recently completed on maps for The Hobbit, as well as other suggestions. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that ther...
7 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#1844
Tolkien returns a slip to GA&U, likely the publicity piece for The Hobbit.
7 January 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1845
C. A. Furth of GA&U writes to Tolkien on matters of his illustrations for The Hobbit. His drawings are admirable and blocks for them are being produced....
17 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#10
Carpenter #10
Tolkien discusses the details of, and placement within the text, some of his illustrations in The Hobbit, as well as potential changes to his illustrati...
23 January 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1846
Susan Dagnall of GA&U writes to Tolkien asking if he can keep one day free, either 13 or 14 February, for her and C. A. Furth to visit Tolkien to discus...
23 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
#1847
Tolkien in reply to Susan Dagnall's letter sent that morning, , notes that he can keep either 13 or 14 February free. He includes the original drawing o...
1 February 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1848
Susan Dagnall writes to Tolkien, correcting a misstatement in her previous letter . Thror's Map will have to be used as an endpaper due to costs, but no...
2 February 1937
R. W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1159
Chambers writing to Tolkien tells him that he must not "delete a single word from" his Beowulf lecture. The letter from Chambers is found in Oxford, Bod...
5 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
#11
Carpenter #11
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall of GA&U on matters of the reproductions of some of his illustrations in The Hobbit. In the 2023 revised edition of Lett...
8 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Chambers
#139
Tolkien makes mention of the new volume on Buckingham by P.N. Tolkien also promises to send Chambers a copy of his book, written for his children and oc...
12 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1369
Carpenter #11a
Tolkien replies to Michael's letter. It appears that Michael has opted to change his work, but Tolkien would like to talk with Welch & Bostock first bef...
20 February 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1849
GA&U send to Tolkien a set of proofs for the Hobbit.
21 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#1850
Tolkien writes to GA&U noting that he has corrected the first proofs for The Hobbit but says that he wants to keep hold of them until the complete set h...
24 February 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1852
GA&U sends to Tolkien the remaining proofs of The Hobbit and ask that he restricts any corrections to those unavoidable. They further ask that he try to...
24 February 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1851
C. A. Furth of GA&U writes to Tolkien to inform him that the 'fine lines' in The Trolls illustration have broken when reproduced, but that there is no r...
2 March 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1853
GA&U return to Tolkien the typescripts of Farmer Giles of Ham and Roverandom.
?10 March 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#1370
Carpenter #11b
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth of GA&U acknowledging the two drawings which were “safely received”, he has placed them in the correct positions among...
?10 March 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#1854
Tolkien returns to GA&U the remaining proofs, end-papers, and suggestions for them of The Hobbit.
23 March 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1855
Replying to Tolkien's letter, Furth confirms that Tolkien will receive proofs of the corrected portions for The Hobbit. Tolkien is warned that the corre...
30 March 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#1866
Writing to C. A. Furth of GA&U, Tolkien hopes that the proofs for The Hobbit will arrive with him during his vacation. He also notes that he will attemp...
31 March 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1867
In reply to Tolkien's letter, C.A. Furth writes to say that the printers have decided to revise the whole of The Hobbit. Tolkien should receive some of ...
c. 3-4 and 7 April 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1869
In two batches, Tolkien receives the proofs for The Hobbit. Exact dates are not known but does follow approximately to C. A. Furth's letter of 31 March ...
7 April 1937
Oxford University Press to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1868
Oxford University Press provide Tolkien with proofs for his essay Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics. Tolkien delivered the lecture on 25 November 19...
13 April 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#12
Carpenter #12
Concerning Tolkien's corrections to the text of The Hobbit, the cost of those corrections, and who would incur that cost, as well as details of his subm...
15 April 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1870
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien. He makes mention that the margins around the Hobbit illustrations will be adjusted before the final printing and apologize...
c. 16 April 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Priscilla Tolkien
#1371
Carpenter #11c
Tolkien writes to his daughter Priscilla in April, 1937 while he is away on a walking tour of Somerset. He hopes to see her tomorrow. He remarks that he...
25 April 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles Furth
#137
Tolkien writes back to Furth in regards to the dustjacket design for The Hobbit. Furth wrote on April 15th that the pink hue that Tolkien put on the mou...
28 April 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1871
Furth writes to Tolkien to say that the red will have to be removed from The Hobbit jacket and the sun will have an outline to highlight it. This letter...
11 May 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1872
C. A. Furth informs Tolkien that a US publisher is interested in publishing The Hobbit and they would like to add four colour illustrations to the book....
13 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#13
Carpenter #13
This two-page handwritten letter contains some of Tolkien's thoughts on the potential publication of The Hobbit in the USA. Tolkien can make illustratio...
14 May 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1873
In reply to Tolkien's letter asking about the US publisher interested in The Hobbit, C. A. Furth gives details. It is the Houghton Mifflin Company (HMC)...
22 May 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1874
GA&U send to Tolkien (for his approval) proof copies of The Hobbit dust-jacket.
26 May 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1875
GA&U send to Tolkien (for his approval) sample bindings for The Hobbit.
28 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#14
Carpenter #14
In this three-page handwritten letter, Tolkien writes to his publisher about the release date for The Hobbit, going on at length about how it would be b...
28 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#475
Tolkien, writing to GA&U approves the dust-jacket for The Hobbit but feels the sun would be better with a finer outline. He prefers the green binding an...
31 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Lionel Salt
#80
Tolkien writes to Lionel Salt, the Bursar at Pembroke College, University of Oxford to apologise that he must miss a play as Christopher, his son was ha...
1 June 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1919
Writing to Tolkien, C. A. Furth of GA&U asks him to return the approved binding for The Hobbit. He agrees that the 'wavy line' will be removed, but says...
c. 1 June 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Houghton Mifflin Co.
#1920
Noted in their letter to Tolkien of 1 June 1937, C. A. Furth says that they have written to Houghton Mifflin in regard of Tolkien's letter to them of 28...
2 June 1937
R. W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1160
Chmabers writes telling Tolkien that he is relieved that the Beowulf lecture retained all the text Tolkien had shown him. This followed a letter from Fe...
2 June 1937
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1921
On 2 June, Mabel Day had reported to the Early English Text Society that their edition of the Ancrene Riwle had met on 27 May. They recommended that the...
11 June 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Pembroke College
#138
Tolkien writes to Pembroke College recommending Mr. N. Davis for a place at the college.
1 July 1937
R.W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1932
R. W. Chambers writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his cong...
1 July 1937
Allen Mawer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1933
Allen Mawer writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congrat...
c. July 1937 - August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to C. S. Lewis
#1978
C. S. Lewis recieves an unbound copy of The Hobbit from GA&U.
3 July 1937
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2243
Furth sends a new sample case of The Hobbit to Tolkien with changes to the lettering and decorations after Tolkien's feedback sent on 28 May.
4 July 1937
David Nichol Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1934
David Nichol Smith writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his ...
5 July 1937
F.E. Harmer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1935
F. E. Harmer writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congra...
8 July 1937
George S. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1936
George S. Gordon writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his co...
8 July 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1944
C. A. writes, informing Tolkien that GA&U will send him a new binding for The Hobbit. It will have have different lettering without the lines under the ...
?9 July 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#1945
Tolkien writes to Furth of GA&U. He agrees that the revised binding would do. He had hoped that the 'wavy line' would be transformed into something and ...
14 July 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Russell Meiggs
#2015
GA&U send Russell Meiggs, editor of the Oxford Magazine, an unbound copy of The Hobbit per Tolkien's request. It is assumed that with any manuscript/pro...
?22 July 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#1946
Tolkien writes to GA&U and encloses the most recent photograph of himself as requested by Susan Dagnall. By letter or in person? He asks them again abou...
23 July 1937
A. W. Reblen to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1947
A.W. Rablen, an undergraduate at Oxford, writes a letter to Tolkien, listing some misprints in the 1930 impression of the Tolkien and Gordon's Sir Gawai...
24 July 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1948
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of his visit to London to meet with him and C. A. Furth on 28 July. He notes that if they have heard from ...
25 July 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1949
Tolkien replies to Stanley Unwin's letter. He will meet him at the GA&U office around 12.30pm on 28 July. He is unsure of the copyright status of the ph...
29 July 1937
F. Molina to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1937
F. Molina writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congratul...
c. Early August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1950
Tolkien had been in London a day after seeing Stanley Unwin and had been asked to dinner next time he had reason to be in London, but Tolkien felt it wa...
August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to C. L. (Charles Leslie) Wrenn
#1996
GA&U send C. L. Wrenn a copy of The Hobbit as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover l...
August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Helen Buckhurst
#1997
At Tolkien's request, GA&U sends Helen Buckhurst a copy of The Hobbit. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cove...
August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Elaine Griffiths
#1979
GA&U send a copy of The Hobbit to Elaine Griffiths. Elaine was a family friend, and recalls reading the story from a "beautifully typed copy". It is ass...
c. August 1937 - September 1937
?J.R.R. Tolkien ?George Allen & Unwin to Robert (Robert Mantle) Rattenbury
#2006
Robert Rattenbury is sent a copy of The Hobbit. It is not known specifically who sent it to him, be that Tolkien himself or through GA&U. No other detai...
August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to A. H. Smith
#2007
A. H. Smith from the Early English Text Society is sent a copy of The Hobbit by GA&U as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/pro...
August 1937
Russell Meiggs (for Oxford Magazine) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2016
Russell Meiggs (editor of the Oxford Magazine) writes to Tolkien with thanks for a copy of The Hobbit. The letter was described by Meiggs himself as an ...
circa 7 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. and Mrs. Livesey
#2031
Please note that we do not believe any letter exists for this entry but rather that Tolkien hand-delivered a copy of The Hobbit for family friends, the ...
3 August 1937
Oliver Elton to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1938
Oliver Elton writes to Tolkien on the publication of his Sir Israel Gollancz Memorial Lecture, Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics to offer his congra...
6 August 1937
Mabel Day to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1922
Having not heard from Tolkien since her last letter, Mabel Day writes again. She notes that most members agree with him, but that senior member A. W. Po...
10 August 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1951
C. A. Furth writes to let Tolkien know that he is sending to him an advance copy of The Hobbit and asks if he would like more. He notes that Houghton Mi...
13 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1967
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien hopes that they can lunch together when he visits London next, most likely in November. He has not as yet had time to ...
13 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#1966
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth asking that copies of The Hobbit be sent to R. W. Chambers and George S. Gordon. He says that GA&U can use the colour illu...
c. 14 August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to R.W. Chambers
#1984
As requested by Tolkien, C. A. Furth sends a copy of The Hobbit to R. W. Chambers. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent...
c. 14 August 1937
George Allen & Unwin to George S. Gordon
#2017
George S. Gordon receives a copy of The Hobbit as requested by Tolkien. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cov...
c. 15-31 August 1937 (undated)
R.W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1985
Chambers writes to Tolkien thanking him for a copy of The Hobbit. It is this letter which is forwarded by Tolkien with a letter to GA&U. He updates Tolk...
16 August 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1968
Furth confirms that he has sent the copies of the Hobbit to the people Tolkien requested. He includes the drawing of a dragon that Tolkien had produced ...
28 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mabel Day (Early English Text Society)
#1923
Tolkien replies to Mabel Day's letter of 6 August. He says that he hoped to have completed work on her request by now but notes that the death of the li...
30 August 1937
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1969
Mabel Day replies to Tolkien's letter. She will ask Cambridge for permission to use their manuscript. She notes that A. W. Pollard claims to have not re...
31 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth (Allen & Unwin)
#15
Carpenter #15
Tolkien sends the last two colour drawings for the American edition of The Hobbit and asks GA&U to send it on to Houghton Mifflin. he also asks about a ...
c. 1 September 1937
E. V. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1972
E. V. Gordon sends to Tolkien the completed manuscript of his edition of Pearl and asks him to revise and criticize it. Tolkien will reply by 20 Novembe...
4 September 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1973
In a letter to Tolkien, C. A. Furth notes that he has written to Houghton Mifflin asking that Tolkien's specimen drawings be returned and asks them to c...
5-7 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth (of George Allen and Unwin)
#81
Writing to C.A. Furth, and apologizes for his lengthy letter regarding the dustcover blurb. Tolkien believes he is still waiting on five copies of The H...
6 September 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1974
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien an advance of £25 for The Hobbit.
7 September 1937 (postmarked)
R.W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1986
Chambers writes again offering thanks for a copy of The Hobbit, and presumably, criticism on it. He gives Tolkien an update on his recovery after a bout...
8 September 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1975
C. A. Firth informs Tolkien that he is sending a complimentary copy of The Hobbit to W. R. Childe and that his remaining author copies will be sent to h...
c. 8 - 26 September 1937*
George Allen & Unwin to W.R. Childe
#2032
Childe is sent a copy of The Hobbit which had been requested by Tolkien. Childe writes to thank Tolkien and offer his congratulations on the publication...
17 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#1333
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth of GA&U. He needs five outstanding author's copies and seven copies for giving to a few people who cannot buy a of The Hobb...
17 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1372
Carpenter #15a
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, apologizes for sounding ungrateful to him. Unwin had sent Tolkien a much welcomed cheque. He hopes that the Hobbit ea...
21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Simonne d'Ardenne
#82
A short note enclosed with a copy of The Hobbit which was published on the same day. It was sent to Simonne d'Ardenne as a gift. This letter is held amo...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#1976
Tolkien sends a copy of his newly published book, The Hobbit, to his friend E. V. Gordon.
c. 21 September 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Marjorie Incledon
#1982
GA&U sends a copy of The Hobbit to Tolkien's cousin, Marjorie Incledon at his request. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books ...
c. 21 September 1937
George Allen & Unwin to Mary Incledon
#1983
GA&U send Mary Incledon, Tolkien's cousin, a copy of The Hobbit as requested by him. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books se...
c. 21 September 1937 - end of 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mabel Tolkien (Mitton)
#1993
Tolkien sent a copy of The Hobbit to his Aunt Mabel, but it is not known if it arrived before her death. John D. Rateliff notes in his History of The Ho...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to K. M. (Katherine Mary) Kilbride
#1980
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to Tolkien family friend and former student, Katharine Kilbride, with a dedication and a four-line original inscripti...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jennie Grove
#2008
Edith's cousin, Jennie Grove is sent a copy of The Hobbit. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stella Mills
#2011
On or around publication day of The Hobbit, Tolkien sends an inscribed copy to his former student and friend Stella Mills. It is assumed that with any m...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles and Dorothy Moore
#2029
Tolkien sends family friends, Charles and Dorothy Moore a copy of his newly published book, The Hobbit. Their copy of the book was put up for auction on...
c. 21 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hilary Tolkien
#2033
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to his brother, Hilary. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
22 September 1937 (unsent)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
#112
Tolkien wrote to his Aunt, Jane Neave enclosing a signed copy of The Hobbit. This letter and the book were described with some short quotes and an image...
22 September 1937
K. M. (Katherine Mary) Kilbride to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2019
Kilbride writes to Tolkien from Bradford offering praise for The Hobbit. This letter is held among the Tolkien Papers at the Bodleian Library.
1937, shortly after the publication of The Hobbit
Christopher Tolkien to Father Christmas
#2388
Christopher Tolkien writes to Father Christmas. He mentions his fathers new book, The Hobbit, remarking that their father had written "it ages ago" and ...
23 September 1937
E. V. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1977
E. V. Gordon replies to Tolkien to thank him for a copy of The Hobbit and offers comments on the story. The letter is held at the Bodleian Library archive.
23 September 1937
Helen Buckhurst to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1998
Helen Buckhurst writes to Tolkien to thank him for arranging for a copy of The Hobbit to be sent to her. She says the book is delightful, though she wis...
23 September 1937
Jennie Grove to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2009
Jennie Grove writes to Tolkien thanking him for the copy of The Hobbit she has recieved. She is "delighted" by it and hopes that it is a huge success fo...
24 September 1937
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2018
Hilary writes to Tolkien thanking him for sending a copy of The Hobbit. He will read it soon and then will read it with Gabriel, his eldest son. He also...
27 September 1937
W.R. Childe to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2012
Tolkien had arranged that a copy of The Hobbit be sent to Childe, and Childe writes to congratulate Tolkien on its publication and offers thanks for his...
27 September 1937
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2090
C.A. Furth informs Tolkien that Houghton Mifflin Co. will pay him $100 for use of his illustrations for their edition of The Hobbit, due to be (and ulti...
30 September 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2091
Susan Dagnall writes to Tolkien asking if he would recommend anyone who could write a book, The Loom of Language. She encloses a synopsis of the book wi...
1 October 1937
Jane Neave to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2002
Tolkien's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to Tolkien demanding to know more about his new book, The Hobbit. Tolkien had written to her, and signed a copy of th...
October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Henry, Mary and also Aileen and Elizabeth Jennings
#1992
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to the Jennings family. It is assumed that with any manuscript/proofs or copies of books sent that a cover letter or ...
1 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
#2092
In reply to Susan Dagnall's letter, Tolkien writes asking for information on The Loom of Language.
2 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1373
Carpenter #15b
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesn't expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla ...
2 October 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2093
Susan Dagnall replies to Tolkien offering more information on the proposed book, The Loom of Language that has been proposed to GA&U. It had been mentio...
3 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#16
Carpenter #16
Tolkien thanks Michael for keeping an eye of Christopher. He says that "Chris" will make a mess of things to start, but he will settle in and be of no f...
3 October 1937
Dorothy Moore to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2030
Dorothy Moore writes to Tolkien. Christopher Tolkien had spent some time with them on holiday and she makes mention of this and remarks on The Hobbit. T...
5 October 1937
Richard Hughes to Allen & Unwin
#1861
Allen & Unwin had sent copies of The Hobbit to various authors in order to solicit reviews. Hughes's response was used for publicity materials to advert...
5 October 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2094
Tolkien writes back to Susan Dagnall on the proposed Loom of Language book. He describes the scheme as bad, and remarks that he had considered if it wer...
6 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
#2003
Tolkien had written to his aunt, Jane Neave on 22 September and signed a copy of The Hobbit. It turned out that he had mislaid the letter and book and t...
7 October 1937
Mary St John [Wiseman] to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2034
Mary writes to Tolkien asking if he would send her a presentation copy of The Hobbit. In return she will send him prayers. This letter is found among th...
9 October 1937
Jane Neave to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2004
Aunt Jane writes again to Tolkien now that she has recieved a copy of The Hobbit. She is delighted with it and says that "the origin of golf" finished h...
9 October 1937
W.R. Childe to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2013
Following his previous letter offering Tolkien thanks and congratulations on The Hobbit, Childe sends a postcard with congratulations on the positive re...
10 October 1937
G.E.K. Braunholtz to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2035
G.E.K. Braunholtz, a colleague from Oxford writes to Tolkien. He has read the positive review in The Times and quotes from it in his letter. This letter...
11 October 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1987
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien telling him that The Hobbit is selling well, and had good reviews in the Times Literary Supplement and The Times itself....
15 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#19
Carpenter #17
Tolkien was pleased that The Hobbit was being well received, though he knows that the two glowing, unsigned reviews in The Times and the Times Literary ...
19 October 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2087
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. he remarks that he has no doubt that Tolkien will do well from his first publication. He describes Tolkien as a genius ...
23 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#21
Carpenter #18
Originally published as just a fragment of a thank you letter to Stanley Unwin who had written that Tolkien was "one of those rare people with genius." ...
28 October 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2097
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin suggests 17 November for their next meeting. Tolkien had written earlier that day suggesting other dates but writes an...
29 October 1937 (first letter)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2096
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien suggests that their next meeting should be in November, saying that the afternoon of the 10th is OK or that he is free...
29 October 1937 (second letter)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2095
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin. He had suggested they meet in November for their next meeting and gives various dates, but Stanley writes a letter whic...
29 October 1937
J.N.L. Myres to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2101
J.N.L. Myres, History scholar at Christ Church, Oxford, writes to Tolkien and asks his opinion on a runic inscription which was found on a bone which wa...
30 October 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2098
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien having only received his first letter from 29 November. He offers to meet Tolkien on the 10th, 12th, or 15th of November.
31 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2099
Tolkien replies to Stanley Unwin's latest letter. He tells Stanley to choose between the 15 and 17 for their meeting.
1 November 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2100
Stanley Unwin writes to confirm 15 November for their meeting. He also remarks that he would like to see Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. Wayne Hammond ...
c. First half of November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mlle Tardivel
#2108
Tolkien replies to Mlle Tardivel's letter on a French translation of The Hobbit. He says that he will forward this to his publisher, George Allen & Unwi...
5 November 1937
F.E. Harmer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2036
F.E. Harmer, a colleague from Manchester writes to Tolkien to ask advice on the meaning of various Old English words and if Tolkien could present any ci...
5 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2102
Tolkien has received the proofs from Elliot & Fry of the photographs taken of him. Edith has chosen one to send to Stanley.
c. First week of November 1937
Mlle Tardivel to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2107
Mlle Tardivel writes to Tolkien asking about the possibility of her translating The Hobbit into French.
10 November 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2103
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter with comments on his photoshoot with Elliot & Fry. He encloses a ticket for Tolkien to attend the Sunday Times...
12 November 1937
Mabel Milton to Hilary Tolkien
#1889
Hilary's Aunt Mabel writes in reply to his letter. She has been unwell for quite some time and is only able to travel short distances. She hopes to be w...
16 November 1937
G.B. [Grace Bindley] Mountain to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2037
Tolkien's aunt, Grace, writes to him offering thoughts on The Hobbit. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library archives with the Tolkien Papers.
16 November 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2104
Stanley writes to Tolkien and includes his manuscript of Farmer Giles of Ham which GA&U had previously viewed. He tells Tolkien that if he has a similar...
16 November 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2105
C.V. Salmon from the BBC writes to Tolkien to ask if he would like to discuss a project. Salmon wants to give a broadcast on Beowulf including a reading...
17 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1009
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, including a letter he received from a Mlle Tardivel who had written asking about a possible French translation of The H...
17 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2106
Tolkien replies to Salmon of the BBC who had written asking about Tolkien's interest in a BBC Radio programme on Beowulf. Tolkien would be very interest...
c. 20 November 1937
E. V. Gordon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1643
E.V. Gordon writing to Tolkien. Sisam has said that his Pearl edition is too long and Gordon asks Tolkien if he would be willing to "prune" it for him, ...
20 November 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2109
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in reply to his letter on foreign translations of The Hobbit. He mentions that GA&U are working to arrange German, Scand...
22 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#1374
Carpenter #18a
Writing to his friend and colleague E.V. Gordon, Tolkien says of Gordon that he has been treated badly. He says that he cannot help enough on the Pearl ...
23 November 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2110
Salmon writes to Tolkien and asks if they can meet in Oxford on 29 November, a Monday.
26 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2111
Tolkien replies to Salmon. He can meet him any time on Monday 29 November. Hammond/Scull note that C.V. Salmon will visit Tolkien in Oxford on 29 Novemb...
28 November 1937
Geoffrey E. Selby to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2038
Selby writes to Tolkien on various matters related to The Hobbit. He asks about discrepancies between the text of The Hobbit and 'Thror's Map'. Tolkien ...
29 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#2112
Tolkien informs Gordon that he will be in Birmingham for his Aunt Mabel's (Mitton) funeral who had died the previous day.
30 November 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2113
Stanley Unwin returns the manuscript for The Lost Road to Tolkien and notes that he has organized a typescript of it for Tolkien which will be sent onto...
30 November 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2114
Salmon had visited Tolkien in Oxford the previous day and they had organised a date for their Beowulf broadcast but he writes to say that the date is no...
December 1937
Christopher Tolkien to Father Christmas
#1858
Young Christopher writes a letter to Father Christmas (likely in early December) where he describes how his father (JRR Tolkien) read The Hobbit to him ...
c. end of 1937 - early 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Florence Hadley
#1994
Tolkien sends a copy of The Hobbit to his Aunt Florence who had emigrated to British Columbia, Canada, possibly with a letter or note (not seen).
?1 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#2116
Tolkien writes to his friend, E.V. Gordon, and says that he is willing to help with the reduction of his volume on Pearl. He remarks however, that he is...
2 December 1937
E. V. Gordon to Kenneth Sisam
#2117
E.V. Gordon writes to Kenneth Sisam after receiving Tolkien's letter. Tolkien and he will attempt to reduce the Pearl manuscript for publication but he ...
3 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2118
Tolkien replies to C.V. Salmon of the BBC. He is available on 14 January for the broadcast of the Beowulf reading but objects to the loss of five minute...
7 December 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2119
Salmon replies to Tolkien's letter agreeing that it better to cut down the reading, retaining the introductory reading for their Beowulf broadcast.
13 December 1937
Arthur Ransome to J.R.R. Tolkien
#106
Arthur Ransome, best known for his Swallows and Amazons series of childrens books wrote to Tolkien in 1937 after The Hobbit had been published, firstly ...
14 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Geoffrey E. Selby
#84
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in replying to Selby's November letter due to his poor health. He remarks that he prefers his own mythology which The H...
14 December 1937
R. W. Chambers to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1161
Further to his earlier letters to Tolkien Chambers had recently finished writing a review (see reference below) of Tolkien's Beowulf: The Monsters and t...
15 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Arthur Ransome
#105
Replying to Arthur Ransome's letter of 13th December Tolkien opens with exclamations of honour at receiving a letter from Ransome. Tolkien apologizes fo...
15 December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1109
Stanley writes to Tolkien with news that the first edition of The Hobbit has sold and a new printing will be issued almost immediately. He notes that To...
15 December 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2120
C.V. Salmon writes asking Tolkien if he is free after 3 January (1938) to rehearse the reading of their Beowulf broadcast.
16 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#22
Carpenter #19
Tolkien has received a letter from Arthur Ransome, who wonders about the use of the word "man" in The Hobbit, as well as a few other letters from reader...
16 December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2020
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in connection to a competition ran by W.G. Le Tall of Geoffrey Tyndale’s Bookshop in Bath. They are offering prizes to...
17 December 1937
Arthur Ransome to J.R.R. Tolkien
#890
Arthur Ransome writes to Tolkien with further thoughts about The Hobbit. He says that he had recently had an operation and the book had turned that time...
17 December 1937
W.G. Le Tall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2021
Following a letter the previous day from Stanley Unwin, Le Fall of Geoffrey Tyndale’s Bookshop in Bath writes to Tolkien with details on the competiti...
17 December 1937
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2121
C.A. Furth writes to update Tolkien on their efforts to get the reprint of The Hobbit out for the Christmas rush. The demand for it is high, GA&U had to...
17 December 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2122
Salmon writes to ask Tolkien how he would like to be described in the Radio Times for their Beowulf broadcast.
18 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2123
Tolkien writes to C.V. Salmon explaining that he has been ill and has not yet written the broadcast for 14 January on Beowulf. he will get it to him as ...
19 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#23
Carpenter #20
"I have written the first chapter of a new story about Hobbits – 'A long expected party'" remarks Tolkien in this letter to C.A. Furth of GA&U. This i...
20 December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2124
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien and includes colour plates of illustrations for The Hobbit along with a report from Rayner on The Adventures of Tom Bomb...
20 December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2125
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien a typescript of Tolkien's story, The Lost Road to him, as promised. He says that its possible publishing success is hard to ...
22 December 1937
K. M. (Katherine Mary) Kilbride to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2126
When The Hobbit was published back in September, 1937, Tolkien had sent a signed first edition to his family friend, Katherine Mary. She had lent the bo...
24 December 1937
Gladys Lillian Tilly (Faulconbridge) [Aunt Lily] to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2039
Tolkien's Aunt Lily congratulates him on the publication of a second printing of The Hobbit. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library among their Tol...
24 December 1937
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2127
C.V. Salmon writes to Tolkien to suggest that they set 12 January 1938 for their rehearsal of the Beowulf broadcast on BBC Radio.
Christmas 1937
Father Christmas to John, Michael, Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#1959
Father Christmas writes to Christopher and Priscilla, "and other old friends at 20 Northmoor Road" for Christmas 1937. He remarks that is is 17 years si...
27 December 1937
R.A. [Ruth] Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2040
G.B. Smith's mother, Ruth Smith, writes to Tolkien with thanks for the copy of The Hobbit he sent her. She also touches on Christopher Tolkien. This let...
27 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2128
Tolkien replies to C.V. Salmon. He says that he is in London on 10 January, which would work better for him. He explains that he is still unwell but tha...
29 December 1937
W.G. Le Tall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2022
W.G. Le Tall again writes to Tolkien about the competition his bookshop is running on The Hobbit. The letter is held with the Tolkien Papers at the Bodl...
1938
3 January 1938
C.V. Salmon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2130
C.V. Salmon writes to Tolkien to confirm that he has secured a studio for their rehearsal of the Beowulf broadcast which will take place on 14 January. ...
?6 January 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2131
Tolkien writes to C.V. Salmon to confirm that he should be at the BBC studio by 11am on January 10th, if the 9.12am train to London is on time. He remar...
?7 January 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2132
Tolkien sends his script to C.V. Salmon for their BBC Radio Beowulf broadcast. He hopes that he has managed to time it correctly for the fifteen minute ...
13 January 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.V. Salmon
#2133
Tolkien sends a revised script for the Beowulf broadcast. He mentions that one of his children has "suddenly developed a bad heart" and he has been deal...
18 January 1938
G.H. White to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2024
A reader had written to the Observer newspaper asking various questions on The Hobbit and Beowulf. White sends a clipping of that letter to Tolkien and ...
1 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth (Allen & Unwin Ltd.)
#24
Carpenter #21
Originally published as just a fragment of a letter, asking if Rayner Unwin was interested to read the "sequel to The Hobbit". In the revised 2023 editi...
4 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#25
Carpenter #22
Tolkien sends to his publisher, the first chapter of a new book, the sequel to The Hobbit. ‘A Long-expected Party’, the first chapter of this book, ...
8 February 1938
W.G. Le Tall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2023
Le Tall sends his personal copy of The Hobbit for Tolkien to sign for him. He updates Tolkien on the competition, noting that it has not gone as well as...
11th February 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1988
Stanley Unwin writes that his son Rayner is delighted with the sample chapter from the new book about hobbits. Rayner does wonder if a child who hasn't ...
13 February 1938
Florence Hadley to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2001
Tolkien's Aunt Florence (Hadley) writes to thank him the copy of The Hobbit which he sent to her in British Columbia, Canada. She notes that had her sis...
15 February 1938
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2134
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien, enclosing his manuscript of Mr. Bliss. He includes some instructions explaining how best to reproduce the illustrations an...
17 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#26
Carpenter #23
Tolkien replies to C.A. Furth regarding the return of Mr. Bliss. Tolkien expresses regret for any trouble caused and wishes someone could redraw the pic...
17 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#589
Tolkien informs his publisher that Houghton Mifflin are yet to return to him the five orginal watercolour paintings for The Hobbit.
18 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#27
Carpenter #24
In this two page handwritten letter, Tolkien thanks Unwin's son Rayner for his positive feedback on the first chapter of the new book, "A Long-Expected ...
19 February 1938
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2135
Further to their letters on Mr. Bliss, C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien remarking that Mr. Bliss could be reproduced in the same manner as the Beatrix Potte...
20 February 1938*
J.R.R. Tolkien to Editor of the Observer
#28
Carpenter #25
Tolkien responds to a request, likely from a researcher or enthusiast, regarding the origins and inspirations behind his work, particularly The Hobbit. ...
Late February - early March, no later than 5 March
Houghton Mifflin Co. to George Allen & Unwin
#2138
Houghton Mifflin Co. send the five colour illustrations to GA&U discussed late in 1937.
26 February 1938
Mabel Day (Early English Text Society) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2136
Mabel Day writes to Tolkien, reminding him that 6 months have past since he was asked to provide specimens for the Ancrene Riwle.
2 March 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2137
Stanley Unwin sends Tolkien a reader's report on Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. The report does not favour the story, to which Tolkien will write a co...
4 March 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#30
Carpenter #26
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin about C.S. Lewis's Out of the Silent Planet and gives him an update on progress with the sequel to The Hobbit. He also m...
5 March 1938
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2139
GA&U send the five colour illustrations (sent from Houghton Mifflin Co.) to Tolkien. In their Companion and Guide, Chronology, p. 223, Wayne Hammond and...
5 March 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ferris Greenslet
#2144
Wayne Hammond and Christina Scull note on their 'Addenda and Corrigenda to The J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide Revised and Enlarged Edition (2017) Vo...
12 March 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Houghton Mifflin Co.
#31
Carpenter #27
Tolkien expresses reluctance to create drawings of hobbits and suggests leaving such tasks to someone with artistic skills. He provides a description of...
16 March 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2145
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of Lewis' Out of the Silent Planet. He has now received three readers reports on the novel and is awaiting...
22 March 1938
B.S. Harvey to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2041
B.S. Harvey of the National Provincial Bank writes to Tolkien acknowledging payment of some cheques and as a post script asks Tolkien if he would mind s...
1 April 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2146
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien again on the matter of Out of the Silent Planet. Having now received five reports and only one is positive. He has decid...
25 April 1938
Houghton Mifflin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1860
Houghton Mifflin, the American publisher of The Hobbit, notified Tolkien that he has won a $250 award for the best children's book published that Spring.
?26 April 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2147
Tolkien forwards the cablegram he received from Houghton Mifflin notifying him of The Hobbit's win as best Children's Book for Spring.
29 April 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2148
Tolkien had sent a Cablegram from Houghton Mifflin to him onto GA&U and Stanley Unwin replies that they will that for publicity purposes. He also asks T...
3rd May, 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1989
Stanley writes a short cover letter to Tolkien explaining that Rayner has had little time (going to boarding school on this day), but has scribbled down...
3 May 1938
Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1990
Rayner "scribbles" a book report on the first three chapters of the Hobbit sequel. His father Stanley sends this review to Tolkien along with a cover le...
3 May 1938
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2151
Kenneth Sisam writes to Tolkien on E.O.G. Turville-Petre's Viga-Glúms Saga. He notes that it will be published in their Oxford English Monographs serie...
13 May 1938
M. Williams to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2042
M. Williams, a former student at Oxford, now of the Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart, New York, writes to Tolkien offering memories of her tim...
17 May 1938
Houghton Mifflin Co. to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2152
Houghton Mifflin Co. send Tolkien a cheque for $250 for being awarded first prize in the New York Herald Tribune book awards. The Hobbit had won first p...
28 May 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#107
Writing to Sisam, Tolkien opens by noting that he received a card from Turville-Petre, who would be leaving for Iceland, most likely on 5 June. He sugge...
1 June 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1991
Stanley Unwin writes that Houghton Mifflin (the American publisher) reports having sold approximately 3000 copies of The Hobbit, and will re-announce it...
June 4th 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#32
Carpenter #28
Tolkien thanks Stanley Unwin for the excellent news from America, where The Hobbit is selling well and it has won a prize of $250. Rayner's review of th...
6 June 1938
Francis P. Magoun to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2043
Francis P. Magoun of Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA writes to Tolkien in praise of The Hobbit. He notes his growing interest in Gothic. Magoun had visite...
10 June 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2153
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien and notes his regret that Tolkien does not have much time to write. He will write directly to Elaine Griffiths on matter...
29 June 1938
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2154
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien informing him that Elaine Griffiths has asked to be released from her contract to deliver the revised edition of the Clark ...
21 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.F. Colborn
#108
Tolkien provides a letter of recommendation for his B.Litt student A.F. Colborn.
22 July 1938
Rütten & Loening Verlag, Potsdam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1981
A German publisher is interested in The Hobbit but needs Tolkien to confirm his Aryan descent before proceeding.
24 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#35
Carpenter #31
Tolkien bemoans The Hobbit being published in 1937 over 1938. His work pressure has left him hard-pressed to get into actions on the sequel. Tolkien has...
24 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#2155
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth. He is struggling to suggest anyone who can fulfill the work for GA&U's Clark Hall Beowulf. He in fact now believes that it...
25 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#33
Carpenter #29
Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin in response to a letter from a German publisher, Rütten & Loening Verlag. They wanted to publish a German translation of...
25 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rütten & Loening Verlag
#34
Carpenter #30
Rütten & Loening Verlag, the German publisher enquired about publishing a German translation of The Hobbit. As part of their conditions they wanted to ...
27 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Masefield
#36
Carpenter #32
Tolkien responds to Mr. Masefield regarding the lines provided for a performance. Tolkien expresses no objection to being preceded by the lines and defe...
28 July 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2156
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. he remarks that his letters of 25 July "have been a source of much merriment and satisfaction at this office". He tells...
31 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ida Gordon
#1125
Tolkien sends his condolences to the wife of E.V. Gordon, who had recently died due to complications from an operation. Wayne Hammond and Christina Scul...
31 Jul 1938
Edith Tolkien to Ida Gordon
#1128
Edith sends her condolences for the death of Ida's husband, E. V. Gordon.
3 August 1938
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2157
C.A. Furth replies to Tolkien remarking that he would be happy for Tolkien to work on the Clark Hall Beowulf volume. He suggests a fee payable to Tolkie...
8 August 1938
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2158
C.A. Furth writes to Tolkien on matters of publishing. He says that the next book they will have to publish is Mr. Bliss, but they have missed the windo...
9 August 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#2159
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien says that he is required to visit London, to the Connaught Hospital in Walthamstow but had only a few hours notice but co...
11 Aug 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ida Gordon
#1126
Tolkien pays tribute to E. V. Gordon, and offers any help he can, talking about finances, the publication of 'The Wanderer' and 'The Seafarer', and the ...
11 August 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Masefield
#1169
Tolkien writes to John Masefield relating to the 'Summer Division' and praises the recitation of his Letters from Pontus (Epistulae ex Ponto) along with...
12 August 1938
John Johnson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2160
As requested by Mabel Day, John Johnson sends Tolkien specimen pages of the Early English Text Societies edition of the Corpus Christi College MS of Anc...
14 August 1938
Simonne d'Ardenne to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2161
Simonne d'Ardenne writes to Tolkien on matters of St. Katherine after she had visited the British Museum and seen some of their items.
19 Aug 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ida Gordon
#1127
Tolkien has been ill. He offers advice on Ida's financial situation after the death of her husband, E.V. Gordon.
31 August 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#37
Carpenter #33
Tolkien writes to Mr. Furth, expressing his current state of being oppressed and unwell due to recent troubles. He submits Farmer Giles for consideratio...
3 September 1938
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2162
In reply to Tolkien's letter, Furth sends an update on the matter of translations of The Hobbit. GA&U have not progressed with translations into French ...
4 September 1938
Catherine Lambert to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2045
Catherine Lambert, a writer from London writes to Tolkien on The Hobbit and mentions her own publications. This letter is held at the Bodleian Library a...
26 Sep 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ida Gordon
#1129
Tolkien offers more condolences about the Gordon family's loss, and talks more about his childhood. He acknowledges receipt of papers relating to Pearl ...
8 October 1938
Andrew Bennet to J.R.R. Tolkien
#111
The secretary of St. Andrews University wrote a letter to Tolkien confirming their wish for him to deliver the Andrew Lang Lecture, they hope that Tolki...
c. 8-9 October 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Andrew Bennett
#2163
Andrew Bennett, Secretary of University Court at St. Andrews had written to Tolkien asking if he would deliver the Andrew Lang Lecture at the university...
c. 11-25 October 1938*
J.R.R. Tolkien to Simonne d'Ardenne
#109
Tolkien replies to Simonne d'Ardenne's letter of 10 October. In it he offers various corrections and suggestions for Sweet's Anglo-Saxon Primer and says...
10 October 1938
Simonne d'Ardenne to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2165
Writing to Tolkien, Simonne d'Ardenne complains about Hitler and the situation in Europe but she hopes that world events will work out for the best. On ...
13 October 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#38
Carpenter #34
In this letter to Stanley Unwin, J.R.R. Tolkien discusses his recent intense work on a sequel to The Hobbit, which has reached Chapter XI. He expresses ...
14 October 1938
Andrew Bennett to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2164
Andrew Bennett writes to acknowledge Tolkien letter on the matter of the Andrew Lang Lecture at St. Andrews University.
15 October 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to University of Malta (Richard Hope letter of recommendation)
#2166
Tolkien writes a letter of recommendation for Oratory School Headmaster, Richard Hope who has applied for a post at the University of Malta.
18 October 1938
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2167
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien offering his sympathies for his current problems with health and various matters of work. He says that GA&U have written...
22 November 1938
F.E. Harmer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2168
F.E. Harmer from the University of Manchester writes to Tolkien and encloses her article ‘Anglo Saxon Charters and the Historian’. She remarks that ...
24 December 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Kilbride
#110
Tolkien opens with news of the terrible year the family have had. Christopher has had a bad heart and in bad health the entire year. More than a dozen f...
Christmas 1938
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1960
Father Christmas writes to Priscilla, wishing her and everyone in the house a Merry Christmas. FC says that neither he nor Ilbereth have had time to dra...
Boxing Day 1938
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#2220
On Boxing Day, Father Christmas sends Priscilla a second letter including a copy of a Beatrix Potter book of paintings, remarking that it is the last. P...
1939
c. 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams to Warren H. Lewis (Last will and testament signatories)
#1691
Tolkien and Charles Williams signing of the will of Warren H. Lewis. 2pp received by Clyde S. Kilby, August 1966.
4 January 1939
C.L. Wrenn to George Allen & Unwin
#2169
Writing to GA&U, Wrenn notes the chaotic nature of the Clark Hall Beowulf volume and asks for more time to complete the work. He includes the introducti...
6 January 1939
C.A. Furth to C.L. Wrenn
#2170
Replying to Wrenn's letter, C.A. Furth agrees to Wrenn having more time to sort and edit the Clark Hall Beowulf. He asks if it would be cheaper to reset...
7 January 1939
C.L. Wrenn to C.A. Furth
#2171
In reply to Furth's letter questioning whether Tolkien has made progress with the preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf, Wrenn says he will mention this to...
11 January 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Simonne d'Ardenne
#1044
This letter is quoted in D'Ardenne's article 'Two Words in Ancrene Wisse and the Katherine Group' in Notes and Queries 227 (1982), p. 3 where Tolkien di...
18 January 1939
Andrew Bennett to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2172
Andrew Bennett from University of St Andrews, had not heard from Tolkien since October regarding the 1939 Andrew Lang Lecture and writes to him again on...
24 January 1939
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2174
Writing to Tolkien, C.A. Furth suggests to Tolkien that if he has not made progress on The Lord of the Rings that they should revisit the subject of Mr....
1 February 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Andrew Bennett
#2173
Tolkien replies to Andrew Bennett's letter, suggesting 8 March to deliver his lecture at St. Andrews.
2 February 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#39
Carpenter #35
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien offers an update with his work on The Lord of the Rings. He has not worked on since December but feels it is a better wor...
8 February 1939
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2175
In reply to Tolkien's letter of 2 February, Furth tells Tolkien that the middle of June will be the latest date that GA&U can receive and have ready a w...
10 February 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
#51
Carpenter #36
Writing to C.A. Furth, Tolkien expresses gratitude for the enclosed cheque for royalities for 1938 and an advance of the royalties from Houghton Mifflin...
11 February 1939
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2176
Furth informs Tolkien that he has told the German publisher that he (Tolkien) wishes to see a proof of the translation of The Hobbit before going to pri...
13 February 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dr. John P. Harrington
#2241
A letter was sent to Oxford University about the derivation of the name Washington in relation to the first President of the United States of America, G...
18 February 1939
C.A. Furth to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2177
Furth writes to Tolkien again on the German publishers edition of The Hobbit. They will not publish until the autumn, and have agreed that they will pro...
1 March 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1375
Carpenter #36a
Tolkien offers his sympathies to his son Michael as he has been bedridden with a bad cold. He has been very busy and feels he has neglected his son with...
6 May 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to R. W. Chambers
#1031
Writing to R.W. Chambers, Tolkien expresses his fears of the propaganda circling around the developing world situation. Chambers had sent Tolkien a copy...
6 May 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Alan Rook
#1758
Tolkien writes to Alan Rock apologising that he is not available to see him. He and Edith are busy in the day and Edith is currently unwell. Alan Rook (...
16 May 1939
Edith Tolkien to Alan Rook
#1759
Edith writes to Alan Rook to invite him and Mr. St. John to visit the Tolkien's next Sunday. Alan Rook (1909-1990) a student at Oxford in the 1930s, had...
21 June 1939
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2178
Stanley Unwin writing to Tolkien, asks for an update on his progress with The Lord of the Rings.
4 July 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Segar
#113
Tolkien pens a letter to Miss Segar regarding hours for the upcoming examinations. He also asks her for the address of a Miss Ridgeway to the same ends....
7 July 1939
John Masefield to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2179
John Masefield writes to Tolkien asking if he would again like to take part in the 'Summer Diversions'.
14 July 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Masefield
#1786
Tolkien writes apologetically because he has missed the deadline for the program (of the year's Oxford Summer Diversions); he had looked through The Can...
8 September 1939
Phillip Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2181
Writing to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark Hall Beowulf, Philip Unwin asks Tolkien's opinion on the likely demand for the volume in current times (th...
15 September 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Phillip Unwin
#1376
Carpenter #36b
Tolkien updates Phillip Unwin on the current situation at universities given the news of war with Germany. He says there will be a reduced demand, but s...
October 1939
War Office to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2182
Tolkien is informed by the War Office that for the present he will not be called to work as a cryptographer. Hammond/Scull note that he will in fact not...
6 October 1939
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2183
W.N. Beard from GA&U's production department writes to Tolkien informing him that C.L. Wrenn has completed his revisions of the Clark Hall Beowulf. Bear...
12 October 1939
Charles Williams to Florence "Michal" Williams
#1787
Writing to his wife, Charles Willians notes that Tolkien and Lewis have asked him to lecture at Magdalen next term if he's still around at that time.
5 November 1939
C.S. Lewis to W.H. Lewis
#2184
Writing to his brother, W.H. Lewis, C.S. Lewis tells of an evening spent with Tolkien, Charles Williams, and C.L.Wrenn discussing matters of the bible. ...
11 November 1939
C.S. Lewis to W.H. Lewis
#2185
Tolkien and other members of the Inklings meet at the Eastgate Hotel on 9 November. Lewis gives details on the night to his brother Warren. Among readin...
14 November 1939
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2186
Tolkien has not replied to Beard on the matter of his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf and Beard reminds Tolkien that a reply is still required.
21 November 1939
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2188
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin says that he would like Tolkien to meet his eldest son, David, who works at Blackwell's Bookshop in Oxford.
11 December 1939
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2187
Having still not heard from Tolkien, a month after his last reminder, Beard again writes to Tolkien. He now tells Tolkien that the Clark Hall Beowulf is...
18 December 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to W.N. Beard
#2189
Tolkien finally replies to W.N. Beard's letters reminding him that his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf is due. He says that he hopes to have time ove...
18 December 1939
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2190
After Stanley Unwin's letter mentioned that he would like Tolkien to meet his son, David, Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien in the evening after speaking ...
19 December 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#52
Carpenter #37
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, expresses gratitude for the kind note and apologizes for his neglectful correspondence due to personal and health iss...
Christmas Eve 1939
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1961
Father Christmas writing to Priscilla is glad she sent him two letters. He hopes that her "Bingo family" have a "jolly Christmas". He remarks that he is...
28 December 1939
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2191
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter of 19 December. He says that it would be a relief to receive Tolkien's work on the Clark Hall Beowulf, remarki...
1940
3 January 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to The Society (R.W. Chapman)
#1170
Tolkien in a letter to The Society (addressed to Chapman) says he is not able to host The Society meeting and dinner as Exeter and Pembroke are not avai...
28 January 1940
Charles Williams to Florence "Michal" Williams
#1788
Charles Williams, writing to his wife, says that Tolkien and Lewis are taking him to the Divinity School at Oxford tomorrow. Note that Wayne Hammond and...
3 February 1940
C.S. Lewis to W.H. Lewis
#2192
C.S. Lewis writing to his brother Warren gives him updates on happenings, and among them a meeting of the Inklings.
5 February 1940
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2193
GA&U write to Tolkien, reminding him that the Clark Hall Beowulf is awaiting his preface before going to print.
5 March 1940
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2194
Writing again to Tolkien, Beard reminds him that GA&U are still waiting for his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf.
27 March 1940
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2195
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien. GA&U are still waiting for Tolkien's preface to the Clark Hall Beowulf and Stanley Unwin asks when it will be finished....
30 March 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#53
Carpenter #38
Tolkien apologizes for his previous behavior and explains that he misunderstood the nature of the requested contribution for the book Beowulf. He expres...
2 April 1940
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2196
Stanley Unwin writes again to Tolkien on the matter of the Clark Hall Beowulf. They intend to include the whole of Tolkien's preface as they feel his na...
5 April 1940
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2197
Stanley Unwin writes again on the Clark Hall Beowulf. He says that Tolkien's preface will require 36 pages and if Tolkien agrees, GA&U will begin typese...
6 April 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Allen & Unwin
#2198
Tolkien returns the telegram (provided by Stanley Unwin) confirming his agreement for his preface to the Clark Hall Beowulf to be used, and the renumera...
8 April 1940
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2199
George Allen & Unwin send Tolkien a cheque for his preface for the Clark Hall Beowulf. They remark that he will receive proofs once they are sent from t...
19 April 1940
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2200
W.N. Beard sends the proofs for the Clark Hall Beowulf for his approval and asks that Tolkien returns them as soon as he can.
24 April 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2202
Writing to Stanley Unwin on the Clark Hall Beowulf, Tolkien returns the proofs, marked with corrections, noting many errors, most notably with the Old E...
25 April 1940
W.N. Beard to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2203
W. N. Beard of GA&U writes to Tolkien assuring him that any corrections to the Clark Hall Beowulf will be handled carefully.
25 April 1940
W.N. Beard to C.L. Wrenn
#2204
W.N. Beard writes to Wrenn. Tolkien has suggested that 'Finnsburg', be changed to 'Finnesburg' in the title of the book, Beowulf and the Finnesburg Frag...
15 May 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2205
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien asks for money due to him be made available as he is "in certain difficulties" at present.
12 July 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1377
Carpenter #38a
Tolkien replies to a letter from his son Michael where he had evidently spoken about his feelings about events of the world, studies, etc. Tolkien is re...
20 July 1940
Mary Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1890
Mary Incledon replies to Hilary. She has been unwell and cannot see people for long. If he wishes to visit her next Friday she would be delighted but if...
20 July 1940
C.S. Lewis to W.H. Lewis
#2206
Hammond and Scull note that there is a meeting of the English Final Honour School examiners on 13-14 July 1940, on which Warnie writes on the 20 July, g...
25 July 1940
Walter Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1891
Walter Incledon, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald writes upon the death of Mary a couple of days previous. He is concerned about the mortgage in Mary's name a...
5 August 1940
Douglas Veale to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2209
Douglas Veale, Registrar of Oxford University, writes to Tolkien, with papers included for him to examine from a student in America. Hammond and Scull n...
29 September 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#54
Carpenter #39
Tolkien describes the departure of evacuees, railway workers and their families, who had sought refuge during wartime. Tolkien observes the scenes with ...
6 October 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#55
Carpenter #40
Tolkien's son Michael had volunteered in the army, and Tolkien expresses his deep regret about the disruption to his university education due to militar...
20 October 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1378
Carpenter #40a
Tolkien hopes that Christopher has not had air raids recently. He notes that he is very lonely without him close to home. Tolkien has been busy with ter...
(undated) November 1940
Winifred Husbands to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2214
Winifred Husbands from University College, London writes to to Tolkien, apparently informing him that an unauthorized edition of Songs for the Philologi...
17 November 1940
Florence Hadley to Hilary Tolkien
#1894
Hilary's Aunt Florence, who lives in Victoria BC, Canada, writes offering sympathies for the current situation in Europe. Letters are taking between thr...
13 December 1940
Polar Bear (with Father Christmas) to Christopher and Priscilla Tolkien
#2221
Very brief note from Polar Bear telling the children that Father Christmas says "O.K." with a correction by Father Christmas who actually said "all righ...
23 December 1940
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#2218
Polar Bear writes a short note to Priscilla. He is glad she is back, and says that messages arrived to him on Saturday that the Tolkien house was empty....
Christmas Eve 1940
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1962
Father Christmas writes wishing Priscilla a Merry Christmas. He asks her to send his love to Christopher. He says that thye are having a hard time, and ...
1941
2 January 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#56
Carpenter #41
After addressing overdue correspondence, Tolkien mentions resuming work on his sequel to The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, but anticipates the impendin...
12 January 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#57
Carpenter #42
To son Michael, Tolkien describes the dreary and busy time with foul weather, shares a humorous incident involving snuff at a pub, mentions committee wo...
26 January 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1379
Carpenter #42a
Tolkien sends Christopher some money, and reminds him that it is important to remember birthdays, especially his mother’s. Tolkien then goes on to rem...
1 February 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1380
Carpenter #42b
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up "Hobbit" and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
23 February 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1381
Carpenter #42c
Tolkien says that he has neglected Christopher of late. He briefly mentions a trip out with Warnie Lewis and ‘Honest Humphrey’ Harvard. He and Micha...
6-8 March 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#58
Carpenter #43
In a comprehensive letter, J.R.R. Tolkien reflects on relationships between men and women, addressing physical, friendly, and romantic dimensions. He de...
12 March 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#114
Carpenter #43a
Tolkien’s second son Michael evidently has informed his parents of his attachment to Joan Griffiths, a nurse at the Worcester Royal Infirmary, and Tol...
16 March 1941
Betty Bond to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2270
Bond informs Tolkien that some of his students enjoyed his lectures on Beowulf during the last term.
18 March 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#59
Carpenter #44
Identifying more with his Suffield heritage than his Tolkien name, Tolkien expresses a deep connection to Worcestershire, considering it "home" due to h...
21 March 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Waller
#2358
Tolkien writes in reply to John Waller, editor of the publication Kingdom Come, a literary magazine in Oxford. Waller had written asking Tolkien if he h...
9 June 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#60
Carpenter #45
In a letter to his son Michael, Tolkien expresses his struggles with writing due to constant rain and increased responsibilities. He sympathizes with go...
18 June 1941
B.E.C. Davis to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2359
B.E.C. Davis of Westfield College, University of London writes to Tolkien to thank him for organizing for his students to use the English Faculty Librar...
Autumn 1941
W.J.B. Owen to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2360
Sometime during Autumn 1941, Tolkien replies to questions from W.J.B. Owen of Bangor University, North Wales, on queries of the Old English poem the 'Wa...
26 November 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Chapman
#61
Carpenter #46
Tolkien reflects on his time in Leeds from 1920 to 1925, associating it with Gordon and expressing gratitude for his kindness and encouragement. The aut...
22 December 1941
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1963
Father Christmas is pleased that Priscilla wrote to him this year. He describes events at the North Pole and a great battle between Goblins, snowboys, P...
1942
1942-03-13 (noted)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Gordon
#2362
Tolkien is asked at a English Faculty Board on 13 March 1942 to write to Mrs. George S. Gordon to offer their condolences on the death of her husband.
15 March 1942
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Kettle
#116
Tolkien notes his pleasure at receiveing letters from readers. He mentions his mythology and remarks that he has nearly finished a second book on hobbit...
7 June 1942
G. Braunholtz to C. T. Onions
#1970
A letter to Onions thanking him for his criticisms and how they were useful in making changes, hoping that Onions finds 'improvement in the papers'. The...
31 July 1942
Unknown to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2361
Noted in The War of the Ring, p. 40, and in Chronology, p. 849 is mention to a letter sent to Tolkien on which he wrote on the rear a "draft of a passag...
27 August 1942
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2363
Basil Blackwell writes to Tolkien, offering his delight at the translation on Pearl which Tolkien had loaned him. He asks if Tolkien would be willing to...
4 December 1942
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2364
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien remarking that the London bookseller, Foyles, will publish The Hobbit as part of its Children's Book Club. He notes furt...
7 December 1942
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#62
Carpenter #47
Tolkien expresses gratitude for the note from Stanley Unwin and discusses the progress of the sequel to The Hobbit that he has been working on since 193...
16 December 1942
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2365
Stanley Unwin replies to Tolkien's letter of 7 December remarking that he is looking to see what corrections have been included in the reprint of The Ho...
Christmas Eve 1942
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1964
Writing to Priscilla, Father Christmas mentions that Polar Bear could not find a letter from her this year. He also says that has been no trouble with t...
1943
[1943*]
Allan Formhals (forgery) to N/A
#18
Forged letter purporting to be from 1943 (dated by an internal reference to Priscilla being fourteen) describing how Tolkien wrote the Lord of the Rings...
29 January 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.L.N. O'Loughlin
#117
Tolkien writes a letter to J.L.N. O’Loughlin. He is currently organising courses for the Navy and Air Force cadets. At a board meeting which Tolkien d...
Mid March 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Various directors and tutors
#2390
Tolkien sends letters in mid March to various people who will be directors and tutors to cadets at Oxford to find out what date (25, 26, or 27 March) wo...
25 March 1943
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2391
Basil Blackwell sends Tolkien some proof copies of Pearl to be corrected as Tolkien has time. He remarks that he is still hopeful that Tolkien will writ...
20 April 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.S. Lewis
#63
Carpenter #48
Tolkien expresses sympathy for Lewis' illness and suggests the possibility of meeting on Wednesdays while discussing the challenges hindering their meet...
April 1943*
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.S. Lewis
#64
Carpenter #49
Writing to C.S. Lewis, Tolkien critiques views on Christian marriage and divorce, pointing out what he sees as a confusion in the argument presented in ...
21 April 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Alan Rook
#118
A wartime postcard from Tolkien to the Cairo poet Alan Rook, contrasting his own literary inactivity – necessitated by the war effort – with the wor...
13 May 1943
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2392
George Allen & Unwin send Tolkien a royalty statement for 1942 and remark that binding issues have delayed the latest printing of The Hobbit.
7 July 1943
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2393
After sending Tolkien proofs of Pearl Basil Blackwell writes again reminding Tolkien that he is yet to send the corrected proofs back to him. He asks To...
12 July 1943
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2394
George Allen & Unwin send to Tolkien two copies of the Foyles' Children's Book Club edition of The Hobbit.
28 July 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1383
Carpenter #49a
Tolkien was glad to get Christopher's letter, he had been waiting to write, needing his new address. He mentions the weather, and fruits which are growi...
3 August 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Leila Keene and Pat Kirke
#119
Tolkien wrote this long letter to two schoolgirls, Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke who were both very enthusiastic about hobbits, in reply to their quest...
1 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1384
Carpenter #49b
Tolkien details a visit to Collegiate Church and describes the building. He then remarks on the people buried there and gives some historical context.
8 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1385
Carpenter #49c
Christopher had apparently been having a bad week, and Tolkien writes with his sympathies. He says to not spend “precious time” on letter writing, t...
13 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1386
Carpenter #49d
Tolkien has organized the next R.N.-R.A.F. course, he will have around 40 cadets and has to attend the Passing Out Parade of the R.N. tomorrow. He is al...
17 September 1943
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2395
Basil Blackwell again writes to Tolkien to remind him that he needs the manuscripts returned for Pearl. He remarks that he needs to sort Tolkien's accou...
c. 18 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Basil Blackwell
#2396
Tolkien finally replies to Basil Blackwell about Pearl. He offers excuses to why he has not yet completed the work. He also includes a cheque to cover h...
19 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1387
Carpenter #49e
Tolkien asks how Christopher has been getting on with flight training, he says that he has been very busy with letters and chores, but did manage to hea...
22 September 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2397
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks that has heard C.S. Lewis reading from his new translation of Aeneid, in rhymed alexandrines.
24 September 1943
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2398
Basil Blackwell writes, thanking Tolkien for his cheque. He also reiterates his hope that Tolkien can turn to and complete the work on Pearl.
19 October 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Elizabeth J. Jennings
#147
Tolkien writes a personal testimony for the daughter of his friend Henry Cecil Jennings.
19 October 1943
Florence Hadley to Hilary Tolkien
#1895
Hilary's Aunt Florence writes from Victoria BC, Canada to wish them all well for the Christmas period. She talks on world events, and notes her regret t...
25 October 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#65
Carpenter #50
Tolkien describes how trees look at this time of year, and mentions that he will be meeting C.E.B. Joad the next night for dinner, hosted by C.S. Lewis.
27 October 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#85
Carpenter #51
Tolkien describes meeting C.E.B. Joad the night before at dinner with C.S. Lewis, and talks a bit about Joad's visit to Russia. The dinner is described ...
C. November 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles Williams
#961
This three page letter is held at the Wade but no details of it are known. The Charles Williams collection at the Wade states this is "A "Closed Letter"...
3 November 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1388
Carpenter #51a
Tolkien had not managed to send Christopher his pipe yesterday, and sends it on to him with this letter. He and Edith received a long letter and were ha...
10 November 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1389
Carpenter #51b
Tolkien reports that he is tired, but has managed to get things done in his usual “programme”. He notes that he has heard two chapters from Charles ...
29 November 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#86
Carpenter #52
Tolkien reflects on the challenging and disheartening circumstances of the time, including the impact of war, propaganda, and the bleak conditions of li...
9 December 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#87
Carpenter #53
Writing to son Christopher, Tolkien reflects on the challenges and monotony of daily life during a turbulent period, expressing a sense of isolation due...
15 December 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1390
Carpenter #53a
Tolkien writes to Christopher after hearing from his brother Michael that Christopher had been unwell again. Tolkien updates him on home life, with Edit...
Late December 1943
Simonne d'Ardenne (via the International Red Cross) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2399
Tolkien receives a message via the International Red Cross from Simonne d'Erdenne. At that time, beginning in April 1942, Nazi Germany refused to relay ...
Christmas 1943
Father Christmas to Priscilla Tolkien
#1965
Tolkien sends the last of his Father Christmas Letters to Priscilla. He offers some comfort on the War situation and offers his love to all his children...
Sometime after 1943
Father Christmas (J.R.R. Tolkien) to Unknown
#2230
Tolkien writes about creating The Father Christmas Letters. This handwritten document is not dated or addressed to anyone. It is reproduced in the 2019 ...
1944
6 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1391
Carpenter #53b
Tolkien replies to a letter from Christopher, he is glad to hear from him and notes his instructions for his tobacco. He has prayed constantly for his s...
6 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Various parties
#2400
Tolkien sends notices out to people involved with the Oxford cadets courses. He includes details on lectures and classes and various other details relat...
8 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#88
Carpenter #54
Tolkien offers Christopher advice on prayer and to remember his guardian angel. He reminds him to use "praises", and says of them "if you have these by ...
18 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#89
Carpenter #55
Tolkien apologizes to Christopher for the delay in writing and shares details of recent activities, including giving lectures, discussing Cardiff with G...
25 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1392
Carpenter #55a
Tolkien has not written for a week and speaks of his “shame of letting a whole week go”. He has been praying for Christopher constantly though. Tolk...
Before March 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1523
No details of this letter are known except for the note in #TCGLetter1033 that says Tolkien now knows that Christopher had received the "fotobriefs" in ...
1 March 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#90
Carpenter #56
Tolkien notes the lack of humorous anecdotes due to limited social interactions in recent weeks. He also mentions an encounter with Lewis, who is energe...
24 March 1944 (posted)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1521
No details from this letter are currently known and it is only noted in Tolkien's letter of 27 March, 1944 as "airgraph FS 10".
27 March 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1393
Carpenter #56a
Tolkien says they have received many letters from Christopher, he will feel much better when he knows that he has received theirs. Tolkien notes that he...
30 March 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#91
Carpenter #57
Tolkien had an outing, seeing the two Lewis brothers and having lunch with C.S. Lewis. During the meeting, Lewis read part of a new story.
3 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#92
Carpenter #58
Tolkien recounts recent events, including a cycle ride to Pembroke, a train journey to Birmingham, and a visit to his hometown. During the train journey...
5 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#93
Carpenter #59
Tolkien shares his commitment to completing The Lord of the Rings, expressing the challenges of re-reading and researching while working on the adventur...
8 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1033
Carpenter #59a
Tolkien writes to Christopher and mentions him sitting in his garden on a beautiful night around 2 a.m. Tolkien had struggled that day with a chapter an...
13 April 1944 (continued on 15 April)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#94
Carpenter #60
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a recently received airletter, shares updates about writing progress on The Lord of the Rings and mentions spending time...
16 or 17 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2401
Tolkien writes to Christopher. No details are currently known. This letter falls between two of Tolkien's 'FS' letters. FS16 (wrongly given by Tolkien a...
18 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#95
Carpenter #61
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving a batch of letters and, discusses the distressing but unsurprising uncensored accounts of Christopher's experiences, ...
23 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#96
Carpenter #62
Tolkien gives Christopher an update on his progess on The Two Towers, the second book of The Lord of the Rings. He has read the second chapter, "Passage...
24 April 1944 (continued 25 and 26 April)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#97
Carpenter #63
Tolkien had received an airletter from Christopher that morning and he read it while enjoying breakfast in bed. He describes the events of St. George's ...
30 April 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#98
Carpenter #64
Tolkien writes of his longing and concern for Christopher in the midst of war, reflecting on human suffering and the senselessness of conflict. Despite ...
4 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#99
Carpenter #65
Having read another chapter to C.S. Lewis, Tolkien is now writing the next, and will send Christopher copies as soon as possible.
6 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#100
Carpenter #66
Tolkien responds to Christopher's letters and acknowledges the challenges and frustrations of life in the military camp during the war. He empathizes wi...
11 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#101
Carpenter #67
Tolkien completed a fourth new chapter titled 'Faramir,' which received approval from C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams. He notes that he attended church ...
12 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#102
Carpenter #68
Tolkien spent a morning writing The Lord of the Rings and is now in sight of Minas Morghul. He has been gardening in the midday heat. he expresses his r...
14 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#103
Carpenter #69
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien updates him on his progress writing The Lord of the Rings. He had needed to sort the study, and "attend to business". He...
21 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#104
Carpenter #70
Tolkien apologizes for the lapse in correspondence. He gives an update on writing of The Lord of the Rings. He reads for Lewis and Williams and both men...
25 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#142
Carpenter #71
Tolkien expresses gratitude for the letters he has received from Christopher and briefly mentions an inclination to envy his time in the hills. Tolkien ...
31 May 1944 (continued 3 June)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#143
Carpenter #72
Writing to Christopher with an update on recent happenings. He had dinner in college and notes that "the three old gents" were very easy to talk to. Lew...
6 June 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2402
Tolkien writes to Christopher. FS29 in his series of FS letters. No details of this letter are currently known.
10 June 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#144
Carpenter #73
Tolkien acknowledges receiving Christopher's air letter and briefly mentions the weather. He provide updates on recent activities, including efforts in ...
Between 12 and 26 June 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2403
This entry is a placeholder for two of Tolkien's FS letters to his son Christopher. Mentioned in Chronology, "12–26 June 1944 During this period Tolki...
22 June 1944
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1342
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien asking of he could meet his son Rayner who is serving as a Cadet in the Navy at Oxford. He also encloses a cheque for £...
27 June 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1395
Carpenter #73a
Tolkien had gone to bed early, and stayed there for nearly 10 hours, which he says has made him feel “worn out”. He mentions that he had received a ...
29 June 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#145
Carpenter #74
Stanley Unwin had sent Tolkien a large cheque as payment of royalties on The Hobbit, and mentions that Rayner is now at Oxford reading English. Tolkien ...
3 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2404
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS34. No details are currently known about the letter.
4-6 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2405
Tolkien writes to Christopher at some point during this timeframe. No details are currently known. This letter would fall between Tolkien's FS34 and FS35.
7 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#146
Carpenter #75
Tolkien opens this letter by mentioning that he is writing this letter using his new "midget type" typewriter cartridges. These could be interchanged an...
7 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1396
Carpenter #74a
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien gives news of C.S. Lewis and his need for an operation to remove some shrapnel, which he says must have been in his arm ...
7 July 1944
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2245
Stanley writes to tell Tolkien that if paper were available they would immediately reprint The Hobbit as it would sell well. Stanley apologizes for not ...
10 July 1944
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2406
Stanley Unwin informs Tolkien that they have found a copy of the reprinted Hobbit and it has been sent to him.
Mid-July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2407
Tolkien sends Christopher the typescripts of the first three chapters of Book IV of The Lord of the Rings.
17 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2408
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS 37. No details of the letter are known.
~17-27 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2409
Tolkien writes to Christopher. Assumed to be FS 38 but no details of the letter are currently known.
28 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#165
Carpenter #76
Tolkien discusses the name Sam Gamgee, agreeing with Christopher's opinion and explaining the choice to emphasize the character's comic, peasantry, and ...
29 or 30 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2410
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 40 but no further details are known.
31 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#166
Carpenter #77
Tolkien reports in a newly published portion that he had received Christopher's airletter of 24 July. He says that his day on Friday was “grim”, as ...
1 August 1944
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2411
An unknown member of the George Allen & Unwin staff writes to Tolkien. Two more copies of The Hobbit have been found.
8 August 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2412
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 42 but no further details are known.
12 August 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#167
Carpenter #78
Tolkien responds to Christopher's letters, encouraging openness about details of his life. He offers support for navigating challenges and express the n...
~13-21 August 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#2413
Tolkien writes to Christopher. It is assumed to be FS 44 but no further details are known.
22 August 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#168
Carpenter #79
Tolkien reflects on the cultural landscape, comparing Kroonstad, seen as a genuine product of their culture, with Jo'burg's aspirations. He expresses co...
1 September 1944
Basil Blackwell to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2414
Basil Blackwell writes yet again to Tolkien on the matter of his translation of Pearl, which Tolkien has still not returned. Blackwell had asked about b...
1 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Basil Blackwell
#2415
Tolkien replies immediately to #TCGLetter2414 in relation to his translation of Pearl. He does not feel taken advantage of and remarks on the introduction.
3 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#169
Carpenter #80
Priscilla has been struggling with The Ballad of the White Horse and trying to parts of it to her has made Tolkien realize it isn't as good as he rememb...
19 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.E. Selby
#120
Tolkien sends a postcard with greetings to Selby. He also notes that Priscilla, his daughter, is typing early chapters of The Lord of the Rings, which h...
19 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.E. Selby
#1397
Carpenter #80a
Tolkien writes to G.E. Selby, a family friend agreeing to act as a referee for his application to a post. In a newly published extract, of this previous...
20 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1398
Carpenter #80b
Tolkien says that he has now seen Rayner twice. He regrets that he has not been able to help him but remarks on what a fine young man he is. He hopes th...
23-25 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#170
Carpenter #81
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving an airgraph before Christopher's departure to Standerton. He discusses the progress of the chapters and promises to s...
24 September 1944
C.S. Lewis to C.A. Brady
#2355
Lewis thanks Brady for a review of his works, and talks about Tolkien, who he describes as "a very great man". "His published works (both imaginative & ...
30 September 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#171
Carpenter #82
Engaged in revision, Tolkien reflects on the chapter "King of the Golden Hall" and finds it to be rather good with the perspective of time.
30 September - 6 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1524
Tolkien noted this airgraph (FS 53) in his letter of 6 October but no other details are currently known.
6 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#172
Carpenter #83
In a newly published portion of this letter Tolkien remarks on what a wonderful week it has been for letters from Christopher. He hopes that letters fro...
12 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#173
Carpenter #84
Tolkien has discovered a severe problem in timing for events in The Lord of the Rings, and will require much work to fix. He has sent a copy of Leaf by ...
14 October 1944
Michael H.R. Tolkien to The Evening Despatch
#122
In this letter to the Evening Despatch of Birmingham, Michael specifies that he does not belong to any particular political party and that his is an int...
16 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#174
Carpenter #85
The timeline for The Lord of the Rings is giving Tolkien trouble, but with some small changes to the map and a few extra days here and there seem to hav...
23 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#175
Carpenter #86
Tolkien has just seen a "skywide armada" fly overhead, but thinks he can mention it in his letter because it will be long gone before any risk of the ne...
24 October 1944 (received)
John Barrow to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2315
Tolkien quotes part of this letter from John Barrow in #TCGLetter176
25 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#176
Carpenter #87
Tolkien sends the last two chapters of the fourth book of The Lord of the Rings, and quotes from a letter he has received from a fan who has read The Ho...
28 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#177
Carpenter #88
A very short excerpt (three sentences) where Tolkien mentions the fading of the current year into "dull grey mournful darkness", and wonders what the ne...
29 October 1944
C.S. Lewis to Charles A. Brady
#1924
Writing to Charles Brady, C. S. Lewis makes mention of Tolkien and his Hobbit books. He mentions that a sequel to the Hobbit will soon be finished. He d...
1 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1399
Carpenter #88a
Tolkien was interested to hear that Christopher had run into “another of the Unwins”, Harold Unwin, a.k.a Chris. He says that Rayner was at Blackwel...
7-8 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#178
Carpenter #89
In regards to Christopher's mentioning of his guardian angel , Tolkien worried that Christopher's was very much needed. which reminded him of a vision h...
13 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1400
Carpenter #89a
Tolkien had seen C.S. Lewis and he notes how Lewis had been interested in the “angelic question” which Tolkien had mentioned to him in an earlier le...
24 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#179
Carpenter #90
Tolkien expresses joy at receiving several letters from Christopher and comments on the amusing account of the Wings ceremony. He appreciates the mentio...
29 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#216
Carpenter #91
Tolkien sends a small consignment of "The Ring," consisting of the last two chapters that have been written and the end of the Fourth Book. The hero is ...
29 November 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1401
Carpenter #91a
Tolkien says that he gave two lectures yesterday, which was an “appalling” day of weather but that he had an excellent morning “at the Bird” wit...
4 December 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1402
Carpenter #91b
Tolkien opens with the news that he has finished his Beowulf lectures . He has neglected academic matters in favour of working out the time-schemes and ...
10 December 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1403
Carpenter #91c
Tolkien has given himself an early Christmas gift in the form of a new pruner for the garden, and gives a humorous description of his cycling to the gar...
18 December 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#217
Carpenter #92
In a newly published portion, Tolkien says that today is the last day for Christmas post arriving in time for Christmas and laments the way the holiday ...
24 December 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#218
Carpenter #93
Tolkien expresses joy that Christopher enjoyed the next three chapters of "The Ring" and provides information about the schedule for sending the remaini...
28 December 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#219
Carpenter #94
Tolkien is happy to get so many letters from Christopher, and is very pleased that the third batch of Ring material has gotten to Christopher and that h...
1945
7 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1404
Carpenter #94a
Tolkien says he is struggling with letters, many of which he should have written at Christmas. He complains that the weather is bitterly cold and he can...
9 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke
#572
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
9 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1405
Carpenter #94b
Tolkien continues to talk about the movie he and Edith saw remarking that his “mind and heart” are still thinking of it. He says that it has the qua...
15 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1406
Carpenter #94c
Tolkien says that he is still “under the influence” of the movie he and Edith saw a week ago and continues to talk about religion, God, and other as...
18 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#220
Carpenter #95
Tolkien has been enjoying reading Stenton's Anglo-Saxon England, and wishes he had a time-machine. Tolkien tells Christopher that this is the history "o...
30 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#221
Carpenter #96
Tolkien describes some domestic plumbing troubles that prevented him from meeting up with Lewis in the morning, but the eventually managed to make it to...
10-11 February 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to The Catholic Herald
#121
In this long letter, Tolkien mentions derivations of "convent" and "Coventry". Published in The Catholic Herald, 23 February 1945, and extracts from it ...
11 February 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#222
Carpenter #97
Tolkien describes a letter he has written to the Catholic Herald, in rebuttal to someone who thinks Coventry is derived from Convent.
17 February 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1407
Carpenter #97a
Tolkien says that he is finding lectures hard work, and that he is tired. He is surprised that he does not have written notes for Beowulf beyond approx....
23 February 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.H. Connor
#1408
Carpenter #97b
Tolkien discusses Chaucer, saying he had “little learning”, some Latin skill but lacked the talent for prose. Also on this day Tolkien's letter to t...
12 March 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1409
Carpenter #97c
Tolkien writes to Christopher while in working with Cadets at the Taylorian . He is missing his son and wishes he could see him. He gives an update on t...
Undated (circa 18 March 1945)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#223
Carpenter #98
Tolkien expresses deep concern about Rayner, who is off to war, and mentions that his son Christopher has become great friends with Chris Unwin. One of ...
29 April 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1410
Carpenter #98a
A short excerpt from Tolkien to Christopher after he had been on leave. He describes seeing him again as like having an old tooth with a "dulled ache". ...
15 May 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Florence (Michal) Williams
#224
Carpenter #99
Tolkien expresses sympathy to Ms. Williams and her son, and his grief over the loss of her husband Charles Williams. The transcript in Carpenter's Lette...
22 May 1945
Stephen Bone to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2046
Stephen Bone, the writer and painter, writes to Tolkien. He remarks on his children's enjoyment of The Hobbit and asks Tolkien if he would send him a ma...
29 May 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#225
Carpenter #100
Tolkien remarks that he would be comforted if Christopher could be re-commissioned out of the R.A.F. Christopher had recently returned from service. He ...
2 June 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to C. Maegraith
#123
Maegraith had sent Tolkien a packet, which he had not acknowledged, he explains he had waited in the hope to have something to say about it but May had ...
3 June 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#247
Carpenter #101
The Civil Defense was staging a stand-down parade Tolkien felt was mockery, because "Wars are always lost".
9 August 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#248
Carpenter #102
Tolkien expresses profound horror and disbelief at the news of atomic bombs, describing the scientists involved as "lunatic physicists" and condemning t...
24 August 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to The Secretary, Students Department, British Council
#1034
This letter was found in the National Archives. Tolkien is applying to the British Council for Simonne d'Ardenne to be allowed to return to Oxford for a...
9 October 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#124
Carpenter #102a
Tolkien writes to his son Christopher, informing him that the Inklings propose to consider him a permanent member. An extract from the letter appears in...
11 October 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#249
Carpenter #103
Tolkien took a new position, the Merton Professorship of English Language and Literature, and remarks on the occasion.
11 October 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to The Director, Students Department, British Council
#1035
In a follow-up to Tolkien's letter, #TCGLetter1034, Tolkien mentions that "it would be of great satisfaction" if Professor d'Ardenne could be granted a ...
22 October 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#250
Carpenter #104
Tolkien and the dons met, chatted and had dinner among other activities.
17 November 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Roger Sharrock
#1068
Tolkien discusses his support for Sharrock's application for academic posts, and mentions C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams.
1946
29 May 1946
Kenneth Sisam to A.L.P. Norrington
#2297
The name of J.A.W. Bennett had come up in relation to the still unfinished Clarendon Chaucer. Sisam is inclined to leave it though as Tolkien is still a...
7 July 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to G.E. Selby
#126
Tolkien sends Selby a postcard, discussing the erroneous reports that he has retired. He and Edith had recently been on vacation. Tolkien expresses the ...
21 July 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#251
Carpenter #105
Tolkien writes to Sir Stanley Unwin, who had just been knighted. He asked about Farmer Giles. And remarks on his progress to The Hobbit sequel among oth...
2 August 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Przemyslaw Mroczkowski
#125
Tolkien writes to his friend, Przemyslaw Mroczkowski, about C.S. Lewis and a potential move to Oxford. He mentions the cost of living in Oxford, and rem...
30 September 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#252
Carpenter #106
Tolkien expresses delight at the prospect of publishing "Farmer Giles of Ham" but cites academic commitments as a hindrance to providing more material p...
1 November 1946
Horus Engels to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1863
Horus Engels wanted to produce a German translation of The Hobbit and sent letters to Tolkien on the matter. In this response to something Tolkien had s...
7 December 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#253
Carpenter #107
Tolkien mentions receiving letters from Horus Engels regarding a German translation, and while Engels doesn't explicitly propose himself as a translator...
1947
undated but likely 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Adrian
#899
Tolkien writes to Adrian after he had visited Cambridge. Nothing else is known and the letter is undated but he visited Cambs in 1947. The original lett...
10 January 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.W. Riddle
#127
Tolkien writes an eight page letter to A.W. Riddle, discussing in very deep detail split infinitives and the evolution of written and colloquially spoke...
13 January 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Gilbert Murray
#1177
Writing to Gilbert Murray, Tolkien with regret notes that he is powerless to help with the task of securing employment of one J.C. Ghosh, an Indian stud...
5 May 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1412
Carpenter #107a
Tolkien notes to Stanley Unwin that he has received the agreement for Farmer Giles of Ham, he would also send revised manuscripts for it in July and he ...
5 July 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#254
Carpenter #108
Tolkien sends back the revised manuscript of Farmer Giles of Ham for publication. He has carefully gone through it, making alterations to improve both s...
31 July 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#255
Carpenter #109
Tolkien responded to Rayner Unwin's comments about The Fellowship of the Ring. He talks about allegory as well as other literary illusions. Tolkien ment...
20 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#256
Carpenter #110
Tolkien provides information about the origin and authorship of the riddles included in their work. He clarifies that most of the riddles are their orig...
21 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#257
Carpenter #111
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in responding to a letter sent in July and explains that he has been preoccupied with philology due to academic commitm...
26 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jennifer Paxman
#128
Tolkien writes to Jennifer with some advice on an Oxford College, and errors in The Hobbit. A description of the letter appeared in The J.R.R. Tolkien C...
27 September 1947
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2246
In response to Tolkien's letter from the prior week Unwin lets Tolkien know that the Hobbit corrections have been passed on to the production department...
30 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rosemary
#129
Writing to a young fan, Rosemary, Tolkien says he is yet to finish his new book about Bilbo and his nephew. . He worries that it is so long that the pub...
30 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#1036
Carpenter #111a
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin with regard to his visit of Merton College's estates in Cambridge, Leicestershire, and Lincolnshire between 22 and 25 Se...
2 October 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.W. Riddle
#130
Tolkien writes to Mr Riddle about languages word changes over time (including the S.I. or Split Infinitive), his father (Arthur Tolkien), Varsity, footb...
23 November 1947
Stephen Bone to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2047
Following on from his letter in 1945, Bone returns a speciman page from The Lord of the Rings and discusses it. We currently have no record of Tolkien's...
30 November 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#140
Carpenter #112
Katharine Farrer had written to Tolkien, in runes, asking if he would sign her copy of The Hobbit. Tolkien replies to her letter in runes. He says that ...
15 December 1947
Katherine Farrer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2048
Farrer replies to Tolkien, again in runes and says that she would welcome a key to the Dwarvish alphabet. This was written on a postcard that accompanie...
17 December 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Malcolm Knox
#131
Tolkien sends thanks for his time with Knox in Scotland. Tolkien had given his lecture 'On Fairy-Stories' to the University of St Andrews in 1939. Notin...
1948
5 January 1948
Mother M. Agnes to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2049
Mother M. Agnes, a former pupil from Leeds and now at Maryfield College, Dublin, writes to Tolkien asking if he recalls her from that time at Leeds. She...
18 January 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.L.N. O'Loughlin
#132
Tolkien had received a parcel, he thanks O'Loughlin and confirms it arrived safely. Tolkien has been very busy and had flu recently, hence his delayed r...
18 January 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rosemary
#149
Tolkien writes a two page letter to Rosemary, telling her about him, being busy and unwell, hence the delay in reply. Wishes her the best for 1948 and m...
25 January 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.S. Lewis
#265
Carpenter #113
Tolkien and Lewis corresponded about what was being read aloud at an Inklings meeting. This was part of a larger conversation surrounding what they were...
31 March 1948
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2050
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
7 April 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#266
Carpenter #114
Tolkien expresses pleasure that Brogan enjoyed "The Hobbit" and mentions his ongoing work on a longer piece set in the same world, providing details abo...
8 April 1948
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2051
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
12 May 1948
Christopher Tolkien to Edward A. Allen
#1167
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade Center. Noted as "(collection) L-Allen (date) May 12, 1948 (sender) Christopher Tolkien (rec...
15 June [?1948]
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#267
Carpenter #115
Tolkien opens this letter with apologies for his delayed reply. He says that he must have appeared ungrateful, but not only was he grateful, he was exci...
5 August 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#268
Carpenter #116
GA&U had decided that Milein Cosman would illustrate Farmer Giles of Ham, a point that Tolkien did not approve of. He likened her artwork to that of Top...
10 August 1948
George Allen & Unwin (Ronald Eames) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1236
In reply to Tolkien's letter of 5 August (see #TCGLetter268) Ronald Eames says that George Allen & Unwin have decided to not use the illustrations of Mi...
10 August 1948
George Allen & Unwin (Ronald Eames) to Pauline Baynes
#1237
Ronald Eames writes various artists, among them is Pauline Baynes, a young artist who will go on to illustrate many Tolkien books and become a life-long...
20 August 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.G. Riewald
#1915
A two page letter written in response to a Max Beerbohm scholar who asked what Tolkien thought of Beerbohm. Tolkien writes that his cartoons amuse him, ...
31 October 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#269
Carpenter #117
Success! declares Tolkien. He has completed The Lord of the Rings and having been read by Rayner Unwin is approved. He does not think it will make any m...
c. early November 1948
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2052
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
11 December 1948
Roland Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1896
Roland Suffield, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald, writes to Hilary wishing them all the best for Christmas. He encloses some postal orders for the children. ...
11 December 1948
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2053
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
25 December 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#270
Carpenter #118
Tolkien writes to Hugh Brogan using runes to wish him a happy Christmas. Hammond/Scull also note that Tolkien also sent Brogan another letter with menti...
c. Christmas 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#2057
Hammond/Scull note in their entry for Christmas 1948 mention a second letter from Tolkien to Brogan with mention of a visit planned for March the follow...
31 December 1948
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2054
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
1949
7 January 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.L.N O'Loughlin
#150
Tolkien sends a rushed note saying that he will act immediately. On behalf of what it is not known.
28 January 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to The Times
#984
This letter, co-signed by Tolkien and other members of the Newman Society to the Times, was in support of Cardinal Mindszenty who had been arrested in H...
28 February 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#271
Carpenter #119
Tolkien declares to GA&U that he does not have the time to retype Farmer Giles of Ham, nor does he feel that it is required. He remarks that the typing ...
11 March 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Turnbull
#133
Tolkien notes that he has a shory story to be published shortly, Farmer Giles of Ham and says that he has completed The Lord of the Rings.
16 March 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#272
Carpenter #120
It has been decided that Pauline Baynes will now illustrate Farmer Giles of Ham. Tolkien is delighted with this news.
18 March 1949
Olwen Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2058
Hugh Brogan's mother, Olwen, writes to Tolkien on the matter of him visiting them in Cambridge. She says he is very welcome and suggests the 20th (Sunda...
4 April 1949 (postmark)
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2055
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
18 May 1949
Henry Willink to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2065
Henry Willink, a colleague from Magdalene College, Cambridge, writes to Tolkien giving him an update on his wife's ill-health and to offer his admiratio...
4 June 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Pauline Baynes
#134
Tolkien replies stating he is very pleased at the illustrations for Farmer Giles of Ham. He says that after seeing the images, his friends, "very justly...
12 July 1949
Magdalen Tolkien to Gabriel Tolkien
#1897
Magdalen Tolkien writes to her son, Gabriel. She reports that Paul, his younger brother, has won three prizes at school in the sports day. She reports o...
13 July 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#273
Carpenter #121
Tolkien discusses the progress of Farmer Giles and hints that the final draft of Lord of the Rings could be done something with.
15 July 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Flint
#1091
Tolkien writing to Miss Flint apologizes for his delay in replying. He had been away but upon his return had much delayed business to attend to which in...
13 August 1949
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2056
In a series of seven letters, a young reader, Hugh Brogan, writes to Tolkien on the matter of his "thirst for more information about Middle-earth" and r...
19 August 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Flint
#1090
Following on from his previous letter (#TCGLetter1091), Tolkien apologises for being unhelpful to Miss Flint for so long. He believes that her revised t...
19 August 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to A. H. Smith
#1820
Two page handwritten letter in which JRRT congratulates Smith on the Quain election and writes on behalf of a student named Mrs. Pietrkiewicz, maiden na...
27 October 1949
C.S. Lewis to J.R.R. Tolkien
#908
Lewis writes to Tolkien after reading The Lord of the Rings, giving Tolkien high praise and feedback. The entire letter is published in volume two of Le...
30 October 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Cyril Hackett Wilkinson
#2213
Tolkien writes to Mr Wilkinson and sends an inscribed copy of Farmer Giles of Ham. The book is dedicated to Mr Wilkinson who urged Tolkien to publish it.
12 November 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss R.W. How
#135
Tolkien notes the progress with having two large books, one being The Lord of the Rings, published. It has been accepted and is almost finished. Hammond...
28 November 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Robert Havard
#930
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.
18 December 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Naomi Mitchison
#136
Carpenter #122
A two page letter (single 5.5 x 7 inch sheet, both sides) in response to Mrs. Mitchison's praise of Farmer Giles of Ham. Tolkien mentions that FG was re...
20 December 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Pauline Baynes
#1162
Carpenter #122a
Tolkien writes to Baynes making mention that Lewis had been in touch and wishes her a Happy Christmas. She (Baynes) is illustrating Lewis's Lion, Witch ...
25 December 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Pauline Baynes
#916
Pauline Baynes had written to say she was meeting with C.S. Lewis on the 31st. Tolkien replies that he and his family would also like to meet her if pos...
31 December 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Pauline Baynes
#917
Baynes replied to Tolkien's letter that she might not have time to see him. He left a letter with Lewis as they were meeting on New Year's Eve. He would...
1950
1950s
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jeremiah Hogan (and family)
#1180
Tolkien spent some time in the 1950s in Ireland and while there he stayed with the Hogan family. The father, Jeremiah worked with Tolkien during his vis...
1950
Sir Lionel Whitby to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1358
No details of this letter are known beyond the auction details. Phillips, Oxford, from 20 October 1988: ALS from Sir Lionel Whitby, Master of Downing Co...
5 February 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#275
Carpenter #123
Tolkien had "dumped" the manuscript of The Lord of the Rings on Milton Waldman just as he was going on holiday, and Tolkien felt bad burdoning him with ...
24 February 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#276
Carpenter #124
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, mentioning various topics but chief among them is The Lord of the Rings. Stranded without a publisher, and the work now...
10 March 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#277
Carpenter #125
Tolkien compares his two great stories the War of the Ring and the War of the Jewels and remarks on the Farmer Giles sales figures.
10 March 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#293
Carpenter #126
Unwin wants to break up Tolkien's "monstrous Saga", and Tolkien hopes Unwin will let the project go so Tolkien can publish The Lord of the Rings and The...
3 April 1950
Sir Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1525
Sir Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of how to publish the Lord of the Rings. He does not see a possibility of one volume and gives some fi...
14 April 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#294
Carpenter #127
Relations between Tolkien and Allen & Unwin had begun to become strained as Tolkien felt that A&U were not open to publishing his work as he would have ...
1 August 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#295
Carpenter #128
Tolkien was sent proofs for a new edition of The Hobbit and remarks on how The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are interlinked. He was not expecting hi...
3 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Guy Milner
#941
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade and consists of two pages.
4 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#1415
Carpenter #128a
Writing to Hugh Brogan, Tolkien notes that he does not know what is happening with The Lord of the Rings which he had hoped would be published this year...
10 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#296
Carpenter #129
Tolkien writes about the new revised edition of The Hobbit.
14 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#297
Carpenter #130
Tolkien sends in a new version of CH 5 of the Hobbit.
9 October 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#1416
Carpenter #130a
Tolkien in a letter to Hugh Brogan gives him some updates on his health. He also says that “Drama” is a “bore”.
27 October 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Helge Kökeritz
#2289
Tolkien writes to the Swedish scholar Helge Kökeritz, at Yale, USA, to invite him to give two lectures at Oxford. Tolkien was concerned about the payme...
1951
12 March 1951
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2059
Hugh Brogan writes to Tolkien and remarks that it has been a couple of years since he joined Hugh and his family and that he is always welcome if he is ...
30 March 1951
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Tolkien
#151
Tolkien replies to a letter from a Mrs. Tolkien in the USA and tells her various information about his family history. They are likely third cousins as ...
9 May 1951
J.R.R. Tolkien to Henry Bosley Woolf
#40
Touching on poems about dragons, Beowulf, and fellow Inkling C. S. Lewis. This letter to Prof. Henry Bosley Woolf thanks him for sending a copy of a pap...
30 May 1951
Dan Davin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2352
Dan Davin, Kenneth Sisam's successor at the OUP writes to Tolkien about retrieving his material on the Clarendon Chaucer. When the two had met a week pr...
31 May 1951
Julian S. Huxley to J.R.R. Tolkien
#396
Julien S. Huxley sends a short note to Tolkien saying he will be in the country for the next meeting of the Ad Eundem Dinner, of which Tolkien attends o...
8 June 1951
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dan Davin
#154
Tolkien writes to Dan Davin of the Oxford University Press (OUP) saying that he has returned any material that be useful. The material related to the fa...
After 8 June 1951
Dan Davin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2353
Dan Davin replies to Tolkien with thanks for returning the material he had from the Clarendon Chaucer. he remarks that Tolkien is welcome to revisit any...
1951 (late)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#152
Carpenter #131
Tolkien wrote this letter to Milton Waldman. Tolkien wanted his publisher, George Allen & Unwin, to publish both The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarill...
25 November 1951
J.R.R. Tolkien to Iona and Peter Opie
#155
This letter of which excerpts were published in The Lore and Language of Schoolchildren concerned the etymology of the word 'faynights'. After it was pu...
1952
c. January 1952 - July 1953
Derek Price to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1356
Interesting and lengthy letter to Prof. Tolkien on a possible Chaucer holograph. Nothing more on this 3 page letter is known but it has been sold a numb...
15th January 1952
Committee to Court of the University of Glasgow
#2233
At a Committee meeting for the W.P. Ker Lecture, it was decided to invite Professor Tolkien to give a talk at the 1952-1953 event.
31 January 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Secretary of the University Court
#2232
Tolkien had been asked to give a Lecture at the University of Glasgow, which he accepted. He gave the lecture on the 15th April 1953 for the W. P. Ker M...
10 February 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father John Tolkien
#314
Carpenter #132
Tolkien writes to his son John about a meal that he had with Lewis, which they called the 'ham-feast'.
23 March 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Tolkien
#1417
Carpenter #132a
Tolkien says that Edith is much happier but for the terrible noise in the street. He says that they will move into the room he currently uses as an offi...
15 May 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Arthur House
#2269
Tolkien writes to Arthur Humphry House (1908-1955), Senior Research Fellow at Wadham College about Merton College business and his difficulties in arran...
22 May 1952
C.S. Lewis to Dear Grittletonians
#1008
C.S. Lewis writes to the 'Grittletonians' recommending Tolkien's The Hobbit.
22 June 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#315
Carpenter #133
Rayner Unwin had written to Tolkien about 'Errantry' and this gave Tolkien an opportunity to see if he could get The Lord of the Rings published by Geor...
4 July 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Moore
#156
A short note from Tolkien to Miss Moore explaining that he has forgotten to enter the date to which her Viva Voce had been removed.
7 August 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#157
In 1937, at the urging of his publishers, Tolkien began writing "a new Hobbit." Due to his full-time academic position, progress was slow, and he abando...
10 August 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Moira Sayer
#158
Tolkien writes a letter to Moira Sayer concerning the second half of The Lord of the Rings. Quotes appear in Christie's 20th Century Books and Manuscrip...
29 August 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#350
Carpenter #134
Tolkien expresses his eagerness to publish The Lord of the Rings as soon as possible. Tolkien plans to spend some days correcting the manuscript at his ...
21 October 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1418
Carpenter #134a
Tolkien writes to wish Michael a happy birthday for tomorrow. He is busy with work but offers his prayers and love to his son. He also mentions the arri...
24 October 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#351
Carpenter #135
Tolkien expresses regret for producing a substantial work like The Lord of the Rings during challenging times. He expresses gratitude for the recipient'...
10 November 1952
Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1355
Rayner Unwin writing to Tolkien gives him the welcome news that they have decided to publish The Lord of the Rings. They will take the unusual approach ...
12 November 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1419
Carpenter #135a
Tolkien replies to Rayner's letter and mentions his pleasure at the news of Allen & Unwin's decision to publish The Lord of the Rings.
15 November 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Burns
#1062
Writing to a Mr. Burns. Tolkien refers to a Professor Kennedy's book of Anglo-Saxon verse and a Miss Kirchberger who had sought Tolkien's advice on her ...
25 November 1952
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Sanford
#2010
Tolkien belatedly thanks Sanford for sending him a copy of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A Prose Translation that had been published by Golden Cocker...
1953
1953
R.M. Wilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1357
No details of this letter are known beyond the auction details. From Phillips, Oxford, from 20 October 1988: 2pp. typed letter and typed article from R....
Not dated (1953)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Basil Blackwell
#1420
Carpenter #135b
Tolkien remarks to Basil Blackwell on the merits and shortcomings of a linguistic text being published in the near future. He points out that had he bee...
29 January 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael and Joan Tolkien
#1421
Carpenter #135c
Writing to his son Michael and daughter-in-law Joan, Tolkien gives an update on their move to a new house, to 76 Sandfield Road. He notes that the start...
8 March 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#159
Tolkien has not supplied Sayer with a copy of The Lord of the Rings as yet.
11 March 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Norman Davis
#1422
Carpenter #135d
Tolkien notes how it has been some time since he wrote, he has been meaning to but has been getting his affairs in order with his house move. He says th...
later in March 1953 (see letter dated 8 March)
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#160
An undated letter from later in March contains a new plea for help, this time in writing a publicity blurb for The Lord of the Rings.
24 March 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#352
Carpenter #136
Tolkien writes to Rayner Unwin about the challenges he's faced leading up to the contract day for The Lord of the Rings. He is also concerned about Edit...
11 April 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#353
Carpenter #137
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in sending the revised manuscript for The Lord of the Rings. His move was incredibly challenging. Tolkien has finally c...
14 April 1953
University of Glasgow to Glasgow Times
#2234
Advert from The Evening Times (later Glasgow times) for the W.P. Ker Lecture by J.R.R. Tolkien, to be given on the 15th April 1953.
21 April 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Norman and Lena Davis
#1423
Carpenter #137a
Tolkien writing to Norman and Lena Davis begins by saying that he does not know how to call Davis, now that he has spent time with him and ate his “br...
28 April 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#161
Tolkien writes to George Sayer apologising for not thanking Sayer for his letter. Tolkien had received books late, missing a contract deadline. Tolkien ...
27 May 1953
Simonne d'Ardenne to The Faculty, Liege University
#83
A letter from Simonne d'Ardenne addressed to the 'Faculty' dated May 27, 1953, proposing J.R.R. Tolkien's candidacy for an honorary doctorate with a bio...
5 June 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1424
Carpenter #137b
Tolkien asks Rayner Unwin for an update on galleys for The Lord of the Rings. He hopes that there will be little work as the copy was “pretty good”....
5 June 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1425
Carpenter #137c
Tolkien writes to Allen & Unwin asking if there will be opportunity for the book to be reviewed. He wants C.S. Lewis especially to be able to review the...
18 June 1953
Kenneth Sisam to Dan Davin
#2293
Writing to Dan Davin, Sisam describes Tolkien as "a rogue." He bemoans Tolkien's delays on a number of titles, remarking that Tolkien "has had Middle En...
22 June 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to P.H. Newby
#1426
Carpenter #137d
Tolkien writes to P.H. Newby of the BBC. Newby had been negotiating to broadcast some of Tolkien's translation of Sir Gawain but pressures meant that he...
24 June 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#162
Tolkien opens this letter by immediately apologising for using his typewriter. He is having trouble with his hand and is resting it. George had asked To...
8 July 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to P.H. Newby
#1427
Carpenter #137e
Tolkien writing to P.H. Newby of the BBC, apologies for his delay in sending the typescript of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, which he has enclosed wi...
11 July 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Robert Burchfield
#1080
Tolkien advises his student Burchfield about his thesis about Ormulum - the proposed thesis title is remarkably close to a recent German publication tha...
22 July 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to W.N. Beard
#163
Writing in reply to a letter from Beard (July 16th), Tolkien confirms he has received galleys that were wrongly delivered to his old address at 99 Holyw...
4 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#354
Carpenter #138
Tolkien expresses his frustration with the galleys of his work, The Lord of the Rings. He finds the process tedious and mentions that the printed versio...
8 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#355
Carpenter #139
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings and he suggests some titles if it is published in three volumes. He was also concerned about whether the publ...
15 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ronald Eames
#180
Eames had written to Tolkien the previous day regarding galleys for The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien replies saying he will return all copies, "if it is l...
17 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#356
Carpenter #140
Tolkien expresses gratitude for Rayner's visit. He proposes titles for the volumes of The Lord of the Rings and his rationale behind the titles.
31 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to George McDonald(?)
#1079
Letter discussing galleys of Lord of the Rings as well as Tolkien's translation of Sir Gawain. Although he complains about the lack of a tape recorder, ...
31 August 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1428
Carpenter #140a
Tolkien writes, reminding Rayner that he will be in London the following day, he hopes Rayner will have time to lunch with him. He will arrive at Museum...
3 September 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to P.H. Newby
#1429
Carpenter #140b
The BBC had expressed a desire to split Sir Gawain into six episodes but Tolkien does not think he can improve the divisions further. But after consider...
23 September 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to W.N. Beard
#1430
Carpenter #140c
Tolkien apologizes for his delay in providing comments on the drawings. He does not think them satisfactory. He says that he should have been more caref...
9 October 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#369
Carpenter #141
Tolkien expresses frustration and anxiety over the "maps", as he believed they were an essential part of The Lord of the Rings.
15 October 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to P.H. Newby
#1431
Carpenter #141a
Tolkien writes to P.H. Newby, giving details of his various health issues at present. He is suffering from laryngitis, lumbago, and sciatica. He still h...
19 November 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1432
Carpenter #141b
Tolkien writes to Rayner, he has been struggling with ill-health through the term and only recently has he been able to deal with “many strands” of ...
30 November 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1433
Carpenter #141c
Tolkien will bring his copy of the third volume for GA&U to use for costing but says it is yet to be revised and will need to be returned to him. He hop...
1 December 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1434
Carpenter #141d
Tolkien writing to Rayner says that Volume Two reads “rather well” and notes that the first book contains very few errors. He hopes to arrive at the...
2 December 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father Robert Murray
#370
Carpenter #142
Robert Murray had offered Tolkien some thought on The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien replied that The Lord of the Rings is a Catholic work, describing it as...
2 December 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#1088
Writing to Miss Perry, Tolkien discusses the Lord of the Rings, hoping it will be published in the coming year. He has had ill health and has been very ...
10 December 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#1435
Carpenter #142a
Tolkien thanks Katharine Farrer for her “charity” at a time he is suffering illness. He felt that the Sir Gawain broadcast on BBC Radio was not espe...
14 December 1953
George Allen & Unwin Publishers Ltd to Arthur Ransome
#868
GA&U sent Arthur Ransome a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring asking him to review it. Included was a short note: "I am sending you a set of uncorrected...
28 December 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#181
Tolkien arranges to visit Allen & Unwin in London with the manuscript for The Return of the King.
1954
Unknown but assumed after The Lord of the Rings is published.
J.R.R. Tolkien to Griffiths
#884
Tolkien writes to a Mr. Griffiths regarding Cecily Clark's Peterborough Chronicles.
22 January 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#371
Carpenter #143
Tolkien writes about corrections to Book III and Book IV.
29 January 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rector of the University of Liège
#186
Tolkien writes to offer his "greatest satisfaction" and "deepest gratitude" for the honour he had been accorded with an honorary doctorate at the Univer...
16 March 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1359
Tolkien sends by registered post two maps, the 'General Map', and 'Part of the Shire'. Both of these maps were drawn by Christopher Tolkien. Tolkien wil...
16 March 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1436
Carpenter #143a
Writing to Allen & Unwin, Tolkien says that he has today, sent by registered, the proof for the “General Map” with a second map for 'Part of the Shi...
23 March 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1437
Carpenter #143b
Tolkien, writing to Allen & Unwin, encloses possible jacket designs, one for The Fellowship of the Ring, and another for The Two Towers. Describing them...
24 March 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1438
Carpenter #143c
Tolkien sends Allen & Unwin proofs of various pages and notes that included rune for “33” are not good, also “59” which he has previous explaine...
26 March 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1439
Carpenter #143d
Tolkien has drawn a sketch for Volume III, but says he won't show it to Rayner as it is not constructive to point out the artificial divisions in the vo...
15 April 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1440
Carpenter #143e
Further to #TCGLetter1438, Tolkien says that p. 33 passes, p. 59 is improved. He has discovered “2 or 3” errors in the runic decoration on the title...
20 April 1954
P.H. Newby to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1360
Newby writes to Tolkien asking if an examination of the eighteenth-century Grammarians would make a suitable subject for a talk on the BBC's Third Progr...
25 April 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#372
Carpenter #144
Tolkien writes about his use of languages in the book and explains the challenges faced in creating maps for The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the dis...
30 April 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#187
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin regarding Richard Hughes's opinion of The Lord of the Rings. Excerpts appears in Sotheby's Catalogue of Nineteenth Centu...
3 May 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to P.H. Newby
#1441
Carpenter #144a
In reply to a letter from P.H. Newby, Tolkien says that a talk on the Third Programme would be a suitable subject but notes that it would be a controver...
13 May 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#390
Carpenter #145
Tolkien is pleased with positive early opinions about his work. He notes his dissatisfaction with the Houghton Mifflin effort, and gives some suggestion...
17 May 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Henry Willink
#188
Tolkien discusses C.S. Lewis and his invitation to Cambridge. Lewis had intitially refused the offer citing family obligations, namely his brothers heal...
17 May 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to H.S. Bennett
#920
Tolkien writes to H.S. Bennett who had written to Tolkien the previous day. He discusses the proposed move by C.S. Lewis to Cambridge. C.S. Lewis would ...
?18 or 20 May 1954
Bennett? to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1164
This letter is housed at the Wade Center but no details are currently known of its contents.
3 June 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd, [to Ronald Eames]
#391
Carpenter #146
Tolkien does not approve of the proofs for the jacket of The Lord of the Rings, which he finds very ugly. He suggests some changes to the design of the ...
10 June 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1442
Carpenter #146a
Tolkien addresses queries about The Two Towers by Allen and Unwin's head reader. Tolkien found the close reading extraordinary. A large publisher will h...
15 June 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#392
Carpenter #147
Tolkien expresses his delight in receiving an advance copy of The Fellowship of the Ring, he finds the jacket much improved and striking, particularly l...
6 August 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#1061
Tolkien remarks on the division of The Lord of the Rings into three volumes, and complains about the 'contemptuous' review of the first volume in the Su...
7 August 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#393
Carpenter #148
Tolkien expresses concerns about misprints in The Fellowship of the Ring. He highlights a disagreement over a botanical term, corrected by the printers....
17 August 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#189
Tolkien writes to his son Michael, telling of the welcome from certain people of his "major work". He suggests that Michael George, his grandson, may en...
18 August 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#1443
Carpenter #148a
Tolkien remarks on the morality of The Lord of the Rings and thanks the Farrer for paying close attention to such matters. He addresses the connections ...
21 August 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Neville Coghill
#190
Christina Scull and Wayne Hammond in a blogpost posted an extract of a letter to Nevill Coghill which can be read at
9 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rector of the University of Liège
#191
A continuation of a letter dated 29 January that same year about Tolkien's honorary doctorate. He also confirms he will gladly accept the invitation to ...
9 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#394
Carpenter #149
Tolkien expresses his relief that the critiques were better than feared. He acknowledges the disadvantage of issuing the work in three parts, with criti...
18 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#398
Carpenter #151
Tolkien shares thoughts on the fascination of The Lord of the Rings. The author hopes to include an upcoming note on translation. The letter ends with t...
18 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#395
Carpenter #150
Tolkien is unable to submit any of the Appendices. The delay is attributed to promises made in Volume I, which are proving very difficult to meet.
18 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#2060
Tolkien replies to Hugh Brogan who had written on the subject of The Fellowship of the Ring.
20 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#1087
Tolkien opens by saying he has been ill or else would have replied to Miss Perry's letter of 10 August. He mentions a Mr. Lambert and that authors shoul...
23 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Heppenstall
#399
Carpenter #152
Tolkien discusses the English dialogue in The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth, Beorhthelm's Son that should be used in the BBC Radio programme. In the 2023 rev...
25 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#402
Carpenter #154
Tolkien responds to Mrs. Mitchison's kind letter and her generous and perceptive review of The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the complexity of the wor...
25 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#403
Carpenter #155
Tolkien responds to Mrs Mitchison's about the concept of "magic" in his works, particularly in The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien acknowledges that it is a ...
late September 1954?
J.R.R. Tolkien to Peter Hastings
#401
Carpenter #153
Tolkien responds to a reader's extensive analysis and questions about The Lord of the Rings. Amongst many topics, Tolkien discusses the unique fate of H...
28 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Daphne Castell
#1046
Daphne Castell (later Cloke) interviewed Tolkien circa 1966. This letter, along with three others and an annotated transcript of her notes for the inter...
11 October 1954
Katharine Briggs to J. R. R. Tolkien
#1715
Briggs very much enjoyed reading The Fellowship of the Ring and asks if the next book will be published by Christmas. She had issues with the changes to...
13 October 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Staniforth
#193
Tolkien was delighted to receive a letter from Mr. John Staniforth referring to himself as a "sexagenarian". Tolkien cites his noticing of the songs in ...
13 October 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Cheesman
#921
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.
13 October 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Briggs
#1712
Tolkien was sent a letter on the 11th October and replied to some queries about Gollum and the publication date of The Two Towers.
18 October 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rector of the University of Liège
#192
This letter (written and sent from Dublin) again concerns the festivities of Tolkien's reception of an honorary doctorate at the University of Liège on...
21 October 1954
Katharine Briggs to J. R. R. Tolkien
#1716
Briggs thanks Tolkien for his reply (#TCGLetter1712) to her first letter (#TCGLetter1715). She looks forward to The Two Towers and The Return of the Kin...
4 November 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Father Robert Murray
#404
Carpenter #156
Tolkien addresses several topics related to The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien discusses the characters Smeagol and Gandalf (including the nature of the Ist...
6 November 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Robert Burchfield
#194
Tolkien remarks on the reception to The Fellowship of the Ring by his colleagues. A photograph of the first half of the first page was included in Chris...
17 November 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Heppenstall
#195
Tolkien writes to inform Heppenstall that he is unable to attend the rehearsal and the recording of the radio play for The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth whic...
22 November 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#1086
Tolkien replies to Miss Perry who had sent Tolkien a favourable review of The Lord of the Rings. He was very pleased and discusses it along with other p...
27 November 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#405
Carpenter #157
Tolkien expresses regret for not having written or offered help during the recipient's difficult times, and suggests the possibility of contributing fun...
1-2nd December 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Heppenstall
#196
Please see Hammond/Scull, Chronology, p. 469 (SUMMARY FORTHCOMING)
December 1954
Hugh Brogan to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2061
Hugh Brogan writes again to Tolkien and offers him some criticisms of the archaic style used in parts of The Lord of the Rings.
2 December 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#406
Carpenter #158
Tolkien briefly mentions having only had time to glance at the Houghton Mifflin 'jacket' information. He thinks it was written by someone who hasn't rea...
13 December 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Heppenstall
#197
Tolkien writes on the matter of the BBC's radio play of The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth.
15 December 1954
Allen & Unwin to Arnoldo Mondadori Editors
#1761
George Allen & Unwin offer a review copy of The Fellowship of the Ring for possible translation into Italian by Arnolda Monadori Editors. They mention t...
20 December 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1444
Carpenter #158a
Tolkien apologizes to Rayner for not having sent off the "main matter" earlier, and he details the hectic year he has had. "More than any one person cou...
21 December 1954
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore to Allen & Unwin
#1760
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore ask for a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers to decide if they wish to print an Italian translation.
30 December 1954
George Allen & Unwin to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1774
Writing to the Italian publisher, Arnoldo Mondadori Editore, the Foreign Rights Department of GA&U note their pleasure at the publishers consideration t...
1955
18 January 1955
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore to George Allen & Unwin
#1775
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore (Milan) writes thanking George Allen & Unwin for copies of the Fellowship of the Ring and the Two Towers. They have been sent ...
28 January 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Professor Dodds
#1078
This letters contents is currently unknown. It was noted in the Tolkien Societies journal, Amon Hen
3 February 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Terence Tiller
#198
Tolkien replies to Mr. Tiller regarding a BBC radio adaptation of The Lord of the Rings. He gives his approval and says he will contact Allen & Unwin to...
15 February 1955
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore (Reading committee report) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1762
This internal readers report offers various points on The Lord of the Rings while it is being considered for piblication in Italian. In conclusion, the ...
25 February 1955
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore (Reading committee report) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1776
An internal 'Readers report' on the Two Towers from Anoldo Mondadori Editore reading committee giving the book a glowing report.
2 March 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Derrick Parnum
#199
Among various subjects, Tolkien mentions his health, which has been good, and the oddness of suggestioning gifts. He remarks that he was gifted a pair o...
3 March 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dora Marshall
#407
Carpenter #159
Tolkien reflects on the challenges of getting their story published, expressing surprise and delight at the positive reception. Tolkien recalls a conver...
6 March 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#408
Carpenter #160
Tolkien regrets having promised the appendices to The Lord of the Rings. He acknowledges the demand for detailed information but is finding this very di...
15 March 1955
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore to Allen & Unwin
#1763
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore turn down publishing The Lord of the Rings as they don't think "that a work of this kind could appeal to a great number of Ita...
April 1955
W. H. Auden to J.R.R. Tolkien
#909
W.H. Auden had been sent a proof copy of the Return of the King during the period it was titled The War of the Ring. He offers feedback, some questionin...
14 April 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#409
Carpenter #161
Tolkien expresses frustration with creating a map for The Lord of the Rings.
18 April 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#410
Carpenter #162
Christopher Tolkien had re-drawn Tolkien's draft-map of the area of Gondor and Rohan.
2 May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Turnbull
#200
Writing to Miss Turnbull, Tolkien says that he has not had time to reply to her long letter as he is "en-meshed with business" and the final pieces of v...
12 May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#201
Tolkien replies to Rayner Unwin concerning his approval of Tolkien's map, which Christopher Tolkien reproduced.
14 May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs Frost
#2239
This letter was sent to Lucille Catherine Beckett, married Frost (1884–1979) in Ravello, Italy, who very much liked the first two volumes of The Lord ...
19 May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Turnbull
#202
Thanking Miss Turnbull for a gift and mention that he has sent off the last items (proofs) for The Return of the King.
19th May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to F.C. Banton
#2229
Tolkien responds to a letter from a fellow King Edward's School student, reminiscing a bit about his time there, his friends who were killed in WWI and ...
26 May 1955 (day of delivery)
Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1526
Rayner Unwin sends Tolkien a folder with reviews from the USA, forwarded from Houghton Mifflin.
26 May 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1445
Carpenter #162a
Tolkien is still not happy with the appendices going in with The Return of the King, but says that they will have to do. He remarks on the ability of th...
2 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Nathan C. Starr
#203
Tolkien writes that he has been involved with administrative duties as well as other distractions. He hopes that Nathan Starr has The Two Towers and is ...
2 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rosemary Summers
#1166
Replying to Rosemary Summers, believed to be a teacher, Tolkien says that some critics argued the Hobbit was too frightening for children. Her school ch...
5 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to The New York Times Book Review
#1016
Tolkien responded to a request as to what makes him 'tick'. Quotes from this letter were printed in the 5 June 1955 New York Times Book Review article '...
7 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to W. H. Auden
#476
Carpenter #163
Tolkien shares insights into the origins and inspirations behind his writing, particularly focusing on The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the evolution...
13 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Deirdre Levinson
#204
This short note sees Tolkien confirming a visit the following day at noon by Levinson. A description of the letter was included in Bonhams Books, Maps a...
22 or 23 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Patricia Kirke
#883
A letter written to P. Tolkien and Edith had been to Ireland where they stayed with a Bridget MacCarthy in Cork. Tolkien says he will be at Oxford aroun...
28 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#1089
Tolkien mentions his visit to London where he met Rayner Unwin. He met Mr. Wilson, who he described as "the small old Scot who seems to reign over that ...
29 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#477
Carpenter #164
Tolkien describes a challenging and overwhelming period with an excessive workload, emphasizing the strain it has taken. He mentions booksellers, includ...
29 June 1955
Jarrold & Sons of Norwich to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1527
This packet sent to Tolkien from the printers Jarrod & Sons' on 29 June is noted in Tolkien's reply to Allen & Unwin. They had sent Tolkien page proofs ...
30 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Houghton Mifflin Co.
#478
Carpenter #165
Tolkien discusses some questions from The New York Times. He talks about the name, TOLKIEN, his ancestors, and even though he was born in Africa, he con...
5 July 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1446
Carpenter #165a
Tolkien notes that the proofs sent to him arrived later than expected and notes that this will hurry matters, after his "days of leisure" have been cut ...
15 July 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
#1447
Carpenter #165b
Tolkien received some additional proofs of The Return of the King back from the printers, and is still not happy with the result. He chalks it up to his...
22 July 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#479
Carpenter #166
Tolkien expresses dissatisfaction with the current proofreading procedure and raises concerns about potential errors in the published volume.
27 July 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Richard L. Sturch
#960
No details of this letter are known. It is held at the Wade.