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Guide to Tolkien's Letters
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Letters Letter Tags Stats

Guide to Tolkien's Letters


X

Not to or from J. R. R. Tolkien

(385 letters match)

1914

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.
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".
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.
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
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...
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.
4 March 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2329


Rob writes about a training exercise involving a Witch-Doctor / wizard.
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 and 22 June 1915
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2330


Robert has moved to Lindrick Camp.
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...
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...
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.
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
Robert Quilter Gilson to Marianne Cary Gilson
#2343


Robert describes to his stepmother a frosty week that Tolkien and Edith spent in Warwick.
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
Robert Quilter Gilson to Estelle King
#2342


Gilson mention's Tolkien's poem 'Kortirion' in this letter to his love interest.

1916

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...
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...
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...
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...
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.
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....
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...

1923

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...
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...
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.

1924

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".
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...
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.
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...

1937

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...
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.
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...
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...
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 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...
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. 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...
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...
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...
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...
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 ...
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 ...

1962

10 April 1962
Attilio Landi (Headquarters at Arnoldo Mondadori Editore) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1777


A reading committee report to the Mondadori headquarters speaks negatively of the Lord of the Rings. The reader described the book as "banal... and cumb...
9 May 1962
Rayner Unwin (George Allen & Unwin) to Pauline Baynes
#1229


Rayner Unwin writes offering Pauline Baynes the job of illustrating The Adventures of Tom Bombadil and Other Verses from the Red Book. This will include...
9 May 1962
George Allen & Unwin to Miss Calabi (Arnoldo Mondadori Editore)
#1778


GA&U write to the Italian publisher Arnoldo Mondadori Editore on the subject of publishing the Italian translation of The Lord of the Rings. Given are d...
15 June 1962
Arnoldo Mondadori Editore to Alina Dadlez (of GAU)
#1779


Mondadori write to Alina Dedlez at GA&U thanking her for the copies sent of the Lord of the Rings and asks for details of what option they intend to gra...
21 June 1962
George Allen & Unwin to Miss Calabi (Arnoldo Mondadori Editore)
#1780


In reply to a letter to GA&U, they reply that holding onto the books is fine. They ask that a decision be made within two months but that if more time i...
1 August 1962
Allen & Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#870


Ronald Eames of George Allen & Unwin writes to Pauline Baynes. They are delighted with the first instalment for The Adventures of Tom Bombadil and Other...
7 August 1962
Allen & Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#872


Allen & Unwin write to Pauline Baynes regarding a mock-up for the new book.
13 August 1962
Miss Calabi (ARNOLDO MONDADORI EDITORE) to Alina Dadlez (George Allen & Unwin)
#1781


Cin Calabi of Arnoldo Mondadori writes to George Allen & Unwin asking if they could have more time to consider The Lord of the Rings as holidays, etc ha...
17 August 1962
Alina Dadlez (for GA&U) to Miss Calabi (Arnoldo Mondadori Editore)
#1782


In reply to a request for more time to consider the Lord of the Rings, Alina Dadlez replies that the end of September will be fine and asks if they may ...
28 September 1962
Arnoldo Mondadori Editors (internal memo) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editors
#1764


An internal memo noting that they are considering once again the Lord of the Rings after having turned it down in 1955. Various translations are noted, ...
28 September 1962
Mario Mattolini (Arnoldo Mondadori Editore) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore (internal memo)
#1784


This internal letter forms the basis of the letter which will be sent to Stanley Unwin declining the invitation to translate and publish the Lord of the...
c. October 1962
Jane Neave to Hilary Tolkien, Magdalen Tolkien
#1901


Jane Neave writes to Hilary and Madgalen Tolkien. She enjoyed a visit with them. She felt very much at home. Jane wants to transfer some shares to them ...
8 October 1962
Elio Vittorini (Headquarters at Arnoldo Mondadori Editors) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1765


An internal note about the possibility of publishing the Lord of the Rings. Details various mentions from other letters about the success of the book, t...
10 October 1962
Elio Vittorini (Headquarters at Arnolda Monadori Editors) to Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
#1785


Mario Mattolini sends this internal letter making the decision to not move forward with the Lord of the Rings.
11 October 1962
Cin Calabi (Arnoldo Mondadori Editore) to Stanley Unwin
#1783


Writing to Stanley Unwin, Cin Calabi of the Italian publisher Arnoldo Mondadori Editore, gives Stanley Unwin the news that the publisher is declining th...
21 December 1962
Jane Neave to Hilary Tolkien
#1902


Aunt Jane writes further on the shares she wishes to have transferred to Hilary. A new certificate will be issued, and she mentions various matters on i...

1965

19 January 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Unknown
#573


An example of brief stock letters that would be sent with Tolkien's written signature to readers who had sent letters to Tolkien. It reads "Thank you ve...
11 February 1965
Edith Tolkien to Sterling Lanier
#587


Edith thanks Sterling Lanier, who had mailed five of his figurines to Professor Tolkien. Tolkien likes some of them, especially the Dwarf.
22 February 1965
Rayner Unwin's Secretary to Ed Meskys
#782


Rayner Unwin replies to a letter from Ed Meskys saying the Silmarillion will not be published for many years but that Sir Gawain and Pearl could be publ...
11 May 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Agatha Carew Hunt
#588


This letter is dated 11 May 1965 and was originally a stock reply to a letter of appreciation. Tolkien discovers the letter on 4 October, when he adds a...
20 May 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Sue Parman
#549


From 'A Song For J.R.R. Tolkien' from The Antioch Review p. 42: "I received a reply dated 20 May 1965, addressed to St. Leonard’s Hall, Park Road, Edi...
20 May 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr Eder
#914


Tolkien's secretary replies to fan letter thanking Mr. Eder for his letters and pictures of stained glass windows. He enjoyed seeing them. He also alert...
20 May 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Nan C. Scott
#943


This is a stock reply letter but Tolkien adds that he is hindered in writing the Silmarillion because of having to revise The Lord of the Rings to fight...
28 May 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Unknown young lady from New Zealand
#688


Tolkien's secretary replies to a fan letter, and then Tolkien adds some details in pen. The reader had asked if another book would be published and mino...
2 July 1965
Donald A. Wollheim to Nan C. Scott
#944


Wollheim tells Scott that he had offered Tolkien a settlement previously, this appears to be an outright lie, one which Tolkien figured out a few weeks ...
15 July 1965
Lovell Thompson to Nan C. Scott
#945


No details of this letter are known but it is almost certainly in regard to the ACE Books edition of The Lord of the Rings. It is held at the Wade.
20th August 1965
Stanley Unwin to Penning Rowsell
#1865


Stanley Unwin sends a copy of the limited edition book Sir Stanley Unwin - The Celebration of his 80th Birthday to journalist Penning-Rowsell, which con...
14 September 1965
Rayner Unwin to Nan C. Scott
#946


No details are currently known from this letter. It is held at the Wade.
3 December 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Ian Lancashire
#705


A 1965 Stock Letter and an apology from Tolkien for not having time for a longer answer.
3 December 1965
Tolkien's Secretary to Joan Snelling
#2268


A 1965 Stock Letter and an apology from Tolkien for not having time for a longer answer.

1966

12 April 1966
Tolkien's Secretary to Sergeant [James] Ridolfo
#763


Secretarial letter to Sergeant Ridolfo thanking him for his kind words about reading and enjoying Tolkien's books.
1 June 1966
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr [Royston F.] Porthouse
#766


Secretarial letter to Mr Porthouse wirth mention that Tolkien's next book will be The Silmarillion.
2 June 1966
Joy Hill to Pamela Chandler
#848


Joy Hill writes to Pamela Chandler. She mentions that if Chandler should sell any photographs of Tolkien she should perhaps mention it to him. She then ...
26 July 1966
Joy Hill to G.B. Johnson
#939


Joy Hill writes to Professor Johnson who is planning a lecture on Tolkien. She gives him some details on Tolkien's parents and also thanks him for respe...
1 August 1966
Tolkien's Secretary to Timothy J. Wheeler
#789


Tolkien thanks Wheeler for sending a copy of Rally.
10 August 1966
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#849


Ediths remarks on Chandlers visit to Aylesbury and "The Bull". Thanks her for some photos. She remarks that their daughter Priscilla stopped in for tea ...
11 August 1966
Joy Hill to Pamela Chandler
#850


Joy Hill writes to Pamela Chandler. She is delighted by the photos taken of Tolkien and could not take them all in given the amount. She mentions that t...
28 August 1966
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#851


Edith Tolkien sends a short note to Pamela Chandler saying that they are anxious to see the photos before they go away at the end of the week. Reports a...
13 September 1966
Joy Hill to Pamela Chandler
#852


Joy Hill writes to Pamela Chandler saying that Tolkien is pleased with the photographs and that if the letter reaches her before she sees Tolkien again,...
12 October 1966
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr Rasmussen
#769


Secretarial letter to Mr Rasmussen. Tolkien mentions in a handwritten note that if the recipient is a modern steel bow "you be should developing a good ...
28 November 1966
Allan Formhals (forgery) to Dear Hooper
#1351
11 December 1966
Allan Formhals (forgery) to Dear Chris,
#1345


Alan Formhals invented a letter to Chris (presumably Christopher Tolkien) about the contents of #TCGLetter665, and dated it the day before the real lett...
29 December 1966
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#773


Edith is very happy with the photos that Pamela has taken. She discusses her Christmas in Abingdon with Christopher and their grandson Simon.

1967

2 January 1967
Pamela Chandler to Edith Tolkien
#853


Pamela Chandler writes thanking Tolkien for the card and wishes for Christmas. The Weekend Telegraph have asked her if she illustrate an article using n...
3 January 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#854


Edith writes thanking Pamela Chandler for writing. It is the Professor's 75th birthday and he has received many cards, letters, and telegrams. Chandler ...
11 January 1967
George Allen & Unwin to Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio)
#1789


GA&U write to Mario Ubaldini of the publishers, Casa Editrice Agtrolabio-Ubaldini Editore, with details of Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. They give de...
12 January 1967
Austin Olney to Joy Hill
#2253


Olney (Houghton Mifflin) sends a sample illustration from Maurice Sendak to Hill at George Allen & Unwin, intended for the proposed American deluxe edit...
24 January 1967
Rayner Unwin to Austin Olney
#2254


Unwin will show the Maurice Sendak Hobbit artwork to Tolkien in early February, and will try to talk to him about making some embellishments for The Roa...
20 February 1967
Rayner Unwin to Austin Olney
#2255


Rayner had visited with Tolkien on 16 February, and shown him the Maurice Sendak Hobbit art piece proposed for a Houghton Mifflin deluxe illustrated edt...
27 Febuary 1967
Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio) to Alina Dadlez (George Allen and Unwin)
#1766


Ubaldini Editore s.r.l have decided to publish The Lord of the Rings in Italian and enquire about the terms.
1 March 1967
Christopher Tolkien to William Ready
#1366


Christopher explains the origin of the Tolkien name to William Ready, and gives a brief account of his siblings and himself. Ready's book was challenged...
10 March 1967
Barbera Maher (of Britannica) to Pamela Chandler
#855


Barbara Maher of Britannica writes to Pamela Chandler saying that they had obtained a photo of Tolkien to use in their 1967 Britannica Book of the Year....
14 March 1967
Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio) to Alina Dadlez (of GAU)
#1790


Writing to Alina Dadlez of GA&U, Mario Ubaldini encloses the signed copy of the contract for the Lord of the Rings. He asks for Tolkien's address so tha...
23 March 1967
Alina Dadlez (of GAU) to Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio)
#1791


Alina Dadlez of GA&U sends Mario Ubaldini a countersigned copy of the contract for the Italian translation of the Lord of the Rings, noting they have re...
30 March 1967
Alina Dadlez (of GAU) to Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio)
#1792


Alina Dadlez writes to Mario Ubaldini to inform him that she has sent the illustrations by Pauline Baynes in a packaet, seperate to this letter. They ar...
19 April 1967
Tolkien's Secretary to Miss Gonzalez
#752


A printed secretarial letter.
23 May 1967
Rayner Unwin to Mr Hooton
#754


Rayner writes to Mr Hooton about The Silmarillion. He describes Tolkien as "a perfectionist" and does not expect publication for a few years. He also st...
5 June 1967
Priscilla Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#856


Priscilla Tolkien writes to Pamela Chandler confirming that she would be delighted to see her for lunch. She gives directions and mentions that her brot...
7 June 1967
Tolkien's Secretary to Unknown
#2261


Unsigned compliments slip on embossed Sandfield Road stationary.
17 June 1967
Priscilla Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#857


Priscilla writes thanking Pamela for her letter and mentions how lovely it was to see her. She offers a bed in future if she would like to stay.
Mid 1967
George Allen & Unwin to Press
#1808


Press release from GA&U about Smith of Wootton Major, The Road Goes Ever On and the vinyl record The Poems and Songs of Middle-earth.
14 July 1967
Casa Editrice Astrolabio to Bando di Roma Bank
#1793


This letter from the publisher, Casa Editrice Astrolabio, to their bank instructing them to transfer the advance payment (£225) for their contract with...
17 July 1967
Ronald Eames to Pauline Baynes
#1252


Ronald Eames of GA&U writes to Pauline Baynes. Her illustrations for Smith of Wootton Major are delightful. He is certain Tolkien will be pleased. he ag...
3 August 1967
Alina Dadlez (of GAU) to Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio)
#1794


Alina Dadlez writes to Mario Ubaldini in reply to his request for another copy of The Lord of the Rings. It is also mentioned that if they wish to use P...
25 August 1967
Alina Dadlez (of GA&U) to Mario Ulbaldini
#1795


Alina Dadlez writes to Mario Ubaldini offering his publisher Tolkien's next book, Smith of Wootton Major to publish in Italian. Should it prove too shor...
15 September 1967
Mario Ubaldini (Casa Editrice Astrolabio) to Alina Dadlez (George Allen and Unwin)
#1767


Tolkien's Italian publisher writes to Allen & Unwin about publishing Smith of Wootton Major, which they are interested in doing.
11 October 1967
P.M. Jenkinson (Secretary) to Pamela Chandler
#757


Tolkien's secretary Phyllis Jenkinson writes to Pamela about her photos. Edith and her husband are ill and too tired to write immediately and will write...
25 October 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#858


Edith apologises for taking so long to reply but Tolkien has been very ill with a virus. he remains in bed. She remarks that she would like six of the s...
8 November 1967
Casa Editrice Astrolabio to Caro Venturini
#1796


Casa Editrice Astrolabio sends flyers to Caro Venturini asking that they be distributed among their booksellers. He notes that it is upto them to make t...
18 November 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#859


Edith thanks Pamela for her letter and remarks that she is happy that she is busy and has plenty of work. Tolkien, with much care is feeling much better...
29 November 1967
Edith Tolkien to Mollie Cowling
#1745
5 December 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#860


Edith is delighted by the photographs and writes to thank Pamela for them. Tolkien is much better now, but easily becomes tired. Priscilla will be visit...

1968

2 January 1968
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1905


Marjorie Incledon (known as Mink), writes to Julian thanking him for his letter and the silk scarf which he sent her for Christmas. She gives family det...
8 January 1968
Tove Hansen to Pamela Chandler
#861


Tove Hansen, of the Danish publishers of Tolkien's publications writes a letter to Pamela Chandler. She asks for a small selection of photographs so tha...
16 January 1968
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr. Wettach
#1179


A stock reply to Mr. Wettach thanking him for his letter.
29 February 1968
Phyllis M. Jenkinson (secretary) to Miss Walker
#734


Tolkien was asked about his memories of Miss Walker's grandfather.
13 March 1968
Pamela Chandler to Tove Hansen
#862


Pamela Chandler writes to Tove Hansen apologizing for her delay in reply and encloses a selection of photographs for their consideration. She asks for t...
9 May 1968
Phyllis Jenkinson to George Burke Johnston
#940


Tolkien's secretary acknowledges receipt of Johnston's booklet The Poetry of J.R.R. Tolkien. This letter is held at the Wade.
June 26, 1968
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#362


On June 5th, Colin Smythe had replied to Tolkien, saying that he would be delighted to have a poem on Westernesse. This response sent back to Smythe was...
7 August 1968
RAI to Edizione Astrolabio
#1797


A short note giving details of a radio slot to publicise the Lord of the Rings which included an attachment with the review as read on radio. This revie...
August 12, 1968
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#363


Smythe had written back to Tolkien on July 1 saying that he was sorry to hear about Tolkien's accident, and sending along a copy of his latest publicati...
October 25, 1968
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#364


On October 22, Smythe sent a note to Tolkien's secretary asking to remind Tolkien. In this response, Tolkien's secretary says that she has reminded Tolk...

1969

15 January 1969
Joy Hill to Brian Sibley
#727


Tolkien's secretary, Joy Hill, returns Brian Sibley's copy of The Adventures of Tom Bombadil, which Tolkien has signed and hand-corrected one of the poems.
23 January 1969
Allen & Unwin (Joy Hill) to Michael Bell
#1175


Joy Hill writes to Michael Bell on behalf of Tolkien. She thanks him for his letter. She says that Tolkien is currently very busy and asks Mr. Bell's fo...
25 February 1969
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#365


Tolkien's secretary writes to Smythe that Tolkien has apologised for not being able to help at the moment, because he is engrossed in days before Middle...
6 March 1969
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#366


On March 1st, Smythe wrote a full summary of the events so far to Joy Hill. In this response, Joy Hill says that Tolkien could not find any complete mat...
10 March 1969
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#367


On March 7, Smythe wrote that he understands Tolkien's inability to contribute a poem, but Smythe would rather see The Silmarillion be published in any ...
1 April 1969
Christopher Tolkien to J.C. Lobdell
#1017


Christopher writes to Mr Lobdell about his questions concerning his father. Did Christopher influence the Lord of the Rings? Is the dwarves' language as...
9 May 1969
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1253


Rayner Unwin of GA&U writes to Pauline Baynes. The poster of the map of Middle-earth in The Lord of the Rings has had enormous success. Allen & Unwin wo...
4 June 1969
Christopher Tolkien to J.C. Lobdell
#1018


Christopher answers questions about the Inklings.
8 August 1969-1971
Edith Tolkien to Marie(?) Tom
#983


Edith writes to Maria and Tom, apologizing for not giving directions to the Hotel Miramar. They will visit the Tolkien's on Monday and their son John wi...
21 August 1969
Martin Blackman (GA&U Home Sales Manager) to P.R. Grey
#2301


Bookshops that pre-ordered 100 copies of the 1968 one volume paperback edition of The Lord of the Rings, were also sent a signed copy. The Students' Boo...
30 August 1969
Bengt Söderhäll to Pauline Baynes
#1254


Bengt Söderhäll of Sweden writes to Pauline Baynes praising her illustrations in books by Tolkien. Since it is impossible to write a personal letter t...
October? 1969
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#368


On September 30, Smythe wrote to Joy Hill one final time, sending one of his publications and regretting that the poem idea could not get off the ground...
2 October 1969
Christopher Tolkien to J.C. Lobdell
#1019


Christopher apologizes for the length of time taken to reply to Mr Lobdell's letter.
16 October 1969
Miss Joy Hill to The Press
#985


GA&U Press Release: "George Allen & Unwin Ltd are pleased to announce the sale of the film and certain allied rights in J.R.R. Tolkien's famous book THE...
17 November 1969
Joy Hill to Pauline Baynes
#1255


Joy Hill writes to Pauline Baynes, she says that one day last week she produced 44 letters for Tolkien. Rayner Unwin will see her poster A Map of Middle...
21 November 1969
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1256


Pauline's A Map of Middle-earth is a masterpiece writes Rayner Unwin, as he believes Tolkien himself has already told her. Rayner did not write down the...
Late 1969 or January 1970
Joy Hill to Mike O'Brien
#2027


This letter was published in the letter column of the January 1970 issue (Volume Two, Number One) of Carandaith, the journal of the Australian Tolkien S...

1970

19 January 1970
Ernest Shepard to Mr. Haack
#821


Ernest Shepard was asked to illustrate The Lord of the Rings, but declines, as he has not read the book. He recommends a fellow illustrator in his place...
7 April 1970
Tolkien's Secretary to Paul
#816


Tolkien sends a typed reply to Paul apologising for not replying more personally. he has moved from Oxford to devote more time to completing The Silmari...
8 June 1970
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2079


Joy Hill writes to filmmaker John Boorman at Tolkien's request. Tolkien is sorry that Boorman has been ill, and hopes that Boorman will be able to visit...
15 June 1970
John Boorman to Joy Hill
#2074


John Boorman writes to Tolkien's secretary, apologizing for not being able to meet in person with Professor Tolkien and their mutual friend Father Magui...
15 June 1970
John Boorman to John Maguire
#2082


John Boorman writes to his friend, the Reverend John Maguire of the Reading University Catholic Chaplaincy, who knows Tolkien. The three men had been pl...
19 June 1970
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2084


Joy Hill has read Boorman's letter to Tolkien over the phone, and Tolkien hopes Boorman is now feeling better and looks forward to meeting him. He will ...
25 June 1970
John Boorman to Joy Hill
#2075


Boorman thanks Joy Hill for writing , and offers to come visit her in the George Allen & Unwin offices on the 13th of July. He would love to talk to her...
25 June 1970
John Boorman to John Maguire
#2083


Boorman writes to Father Maguire. Boorman has arranged to meet up with Tolkien in August, sadly when Maguire is out of town. Boorman will let him know h...
28 July 1970
John Boorman to Joy Hill
#2076


Boorman apologizes for not being able to meet with Joy Hill during his visit to London. He was too busy dealing with United Artists and the launch of hi...
31 July 1970
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2085


Joy Hill writes to confirm scheduling just discussed in a phone call. Boorman will meet with Rayner Unwin on Monday 17th August, and Tolkien in Bournemo...
14 August 1970
John Boorman to Joy Hill
#2073


Boorman writes to Tolkien's secretary (in her role as Press Officer for George Allen & Unwin), saying that he had hoped United Artists would have greenl...
17 August 1970
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2080


Joy Hill thanks Boorman for letting her know that United Artists haven't greenlit the film yet. She looks forward to hearing when the project is ready, ...
10 September 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1257


Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes writes that A Map of Middle-earth is selling well, and they already plan a reprint. They are now thinking of a poster map...
21 October 1970
Edith Tolkien to Mollie Cowling
#1713


Edith writes to family friend Mollie Cowling. Giving updates on family, and her health. Members of the family had been on a trip to Canada for five week...
4 November 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1258


Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes says that GA&U are very happy to commission the Hobbit map, entitled There and Back Again] as soon as she can fit it in, ...
27 November 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1259


Rayner Unwin comments that they are delighted that Baynes will do the Hobbit map entitled 'There and Back Again'. There is no urgency and a few months d...
18 December 1970
Joy Hill to Austin Olney
#1158


Joy Hill thanks Austin Olney for presents sent to Tolkien by Houghton Mifflin.

1971

6 January 1971
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1906


Writing to Julian Tolkien, Marjorie Incledon gives news on her health, and a friend who has now been moved to a nursing home. She hopes that he feels be...
8 February 1971
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2078


Joy Hill writes to filmmaker John Boorman, saying she had tried to call him on the phone but he had evidently already left the country. She is hoping to...
18 March 1971
Tolkien's Secretary to C. Huggett
#2044


Secretarial Letter to Mr Huggett. Tolkien is said to be too far from a post office, and too busy writing another book (The Silmarillion) to autograph bo...
29 March 1971
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2086


Joy Hill has recently heard from an American publisher (either Ballantine or Houghton Mifflin) that the film is moving forward, and asks for an update f...
30 March 1971
Tolkien's secretary to Mrs Gould
#289


Tolkien's secretary writes to Mrs Gould and sends a signature to put into her book. They put the wrong address on the letter, but in those days the Post...
7 April 1971
Tolkien's Secretary to Randy Trimmer
#822


Tolkien sends a standard form reply to Mr. Trimmer, apologising for not being able to write anything personal as he is working on The Silmarillion. This...
23 April 1971
John Boorman to Joy Hill
#2077


Boorman is about to begin filming of "Deliverance", and hopes to be able to have news about The Lord of the Rings film in late July. It still isn't fina...
17 May 1971
Joy Hill to John Boorman
#2081


Joy Hill thanks Boorman for writing , and looks forward to hearing from him again when he returns near the end of July.
14 June 1971
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr. Ballard
#291


Tolkien apologises for not sending a personal reply and explains that he is to busy with the Silmarillion to answer personal questions.
1st July 1971
Joy Hill to Jan Bosmans
#1051


Joy Hill tries to dissuade a student from writing his thesis about The Lord of the Rings due to the immense amount of unpublished material he doesn't ha...
9 August 1971
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1260


Rayner Unwin has sent via Joy Hill blowups from the The Lord of the Rings of area the There and Back Again map would need to cover. It has much some det...
15 September 1971
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1261


Rayner Unwin notes that GA&U are delighted with There and Back Again map and that Tolkien is unqualified in his praise. ‘He loved your visit . . . des...
7 October 1971
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
#1263


Rayner Unwin is quite happy with the different method of payment but is re-sending the cheque for £150 that she returned to him. He outlines new method...
December 1971
Priscilla Tolkien to Pauline Baynes
#1264


Priscilla Tolkien sends Pauline Baynes a postcard, inviting her and her husband Fritz to attend an at Home with buffet lunch at Priscilla’s house on 3...
1 December 1971
Priscilla Tolkien to Mrs Cowling
#1714


Priscilla writes to her mother's friend, Mollie Cowling, in Melbourne, Australia, with news of her mother's death, funeral and burial in Wolvercote Ceme...

1972

9 January 1972
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1907


Marjorie Incledon (Aunt Mink), writes to Julian to wish him a happy new year. Like him, she could not make Edith's funeral but has spoken with Christoph...
25 February 1972
L. Mason to Hilary Tolkien
#1908


L. Mason writes to Hilary with thanks for his memories of Mason's sister. he notes that his daughter is called Hilary and mentions a funny story of the ...
4 April 1972
Tolkien's secretary to Mr. Toth
#304


Tolkien was sent a small gift but was smashed to bits during the delivery.
19 April 1972
Tolkien's Secretary to Eva Heilborn
#1069


Letter from Tolkien's secretary to a fan.
June 1972
William H. Tait to The editor, Old Edwardians Gazette
#992


William H. Tait, writing to the Old Edwardians Gazette offering a personal rememberance of a time around July 1909 when he, Tolkien and six others from ...
8 June 1972
Public Orator to Oxford University
#1099


From Marquette: "Speech by the Public Orator," speech given at the presentation of an honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters to J. R. R. Tolkien by Oxford...
20 June 1972
L. Mason to Hilary Tolkien
#1909


L. Mason writes asking Hilary if he knows if his letter to his brother, JRRT, has been received. He sent it to Merton College.
26 September 1972
Clyde S. Kilby to Bill
#887


Kilby writes to Bill, saying that he has copies of the letters from J.R.R. Tolkien to Roger Verhulst.
October 3, 1972
Ballantine Books to John David Cofield
#2028


A photocopy/form letter on Ballantine Books letterhead sent in response to a fan letter. The letter thanks David for writing and for his enthusiasm, and...

1973

Jan 4, 1973
Joy Hill to Phil Rose
#1042


Joy Hill responds to a fan query about The Silmarillion, saying that for death duty (tax) reasons, it cannot be published while he is alive.
17 January 1973
Tolkien's secretary to Mr. N.J. Kyle
#313


Tolkien's secretary writing on behalf of Tolkien, sats that he is very busy and cannot write letters currently.
26 February 1973
Tolkien's secretary to Stefan Pettersson
#319


Tolkien's secretary writes that Tolkien is sadly too busy to send letters and autographs.
7 May 1973
Tolkien's Secretary to J. Bryce Milligan
#841


Reply of thanks. Mention of The Silmarillion being "far from complete".
June 1973?
Ballantine Books to Mr. Miatech
#1049


A secretarial letter sent from Ballantine Books, with an unknown person having written Tolkien's name at the signature line. Tolkien did not condone thi...
13 June 1973
Patricia Wrightson to Basil Blackwell & Mott Ltd
#2140


The editor of the School Magazine asks Blackwell's for permission to reprint Tolkien's poem 'Goblin Feet'.
14 June 1973
Tolkien's Secretary to Bruce Charlton
#842


This letter to Bruce Charlton, a well-known Tolkien researcher was in reply to questions asked by him. Tolkien did not answer any of his questions excep...
1 August 1973
Ballantine Books to Ronna Schutltz
#2256


A secretarial letter sent from Ballantine Books, with an unknown person having written Tolkien's name at the signature line. Tolkien did not condone thi...
28 August 1973
Tolkien's secretary to Michael Goldman
#379


Tolkien's secretary informs a British fan that the writer that he had written a play, The Homecoming of Beorthnoth, published in America as part of The ...
Late October 1973
Marjorie Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1910


Marjorie writes to Hilary thanking him for visiting her. She gives him news on her leg, whoch the doctors have said must be amputated given her age and ...
2nd October 1973
Joy Hill to Mr Abetts
#306


Joy Hill informs Mr Abetts of Tolkien's death but states that he was able to read the letter that Mr Abetts had sent.
3 December 1973
Hilary Tolkien to Messrs Farrington & Whiting
#1911


Hilary writes to Messrs Farrington & WHite on matters of Marjorie Incledon's will after her death in November. He asks if his eldest son, Gabriel, is to...
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