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Guide to Tolkien's Letters


X

To J.R.R. Tolkien

(373 letters match)

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...
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.
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...
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 th...
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...
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.
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.
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.

1915

1 March 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1200


Writing to Tolkien, Rob Gilson asks him to attend a meeting of the T.C.B.S. in Cambridge on the weekend of 6-7 March.
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....
?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...
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 ...
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...
22 March 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1208


Gilson writes 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 for Tolkien.
?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...
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...
?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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
?23 April 1915 (Trinity Term 1915)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1228


Writing to Tolkien, Wiseman gives him some feedback on his poetry. He and Gilson had been discussing it and Smith had said preiously that he was impress...
?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 Tolkien sent after Smith requested in his letter of 14 May (#TCGLetter1241).
?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 this letter but it is almost certainly to congratulate Tolkien that both of them had ...
?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...
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...
4 July 1915
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1249


G.B. Smith sends his congratulations to Tolkien while he is in Warwick for ‘one of the highest distinctions an Englishman can obtain’.
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
The War Office to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1268


The War Office writes to Tolkien c/ o Father Francis Morgan at the Birmingham Oratory. He has been appointed as a temporary Second Lieutenant in the New...
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 he has seen a notice that the Navy wants mathematicians as instructors, and is now awaiting the formal noti...
11 July 1915
G.B. Smith (?) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1274


Tolkien writes that he has been "gazetted". See #TCGLetter1273
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.
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...
?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 transfered once his training is completed.
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...
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...
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...
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...
6 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...
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 sharing from Tolkien that he unfortunately attend the next council. Edith has bee...
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 soory that Tolkien could not ...
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...
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.
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 writes to Tolkien who has written to him about some problems he is having, Gilson remarks on ‘the extra blackness of your fate in these dar...
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...
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 ...
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.
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...
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...
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. 8-12 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...
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...
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...
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...
25 July 1916
G.B. Smith to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1546


Smith writes to Tolkien offering praise for his poem, 'The Lonely Isle'.
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...
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.
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.
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. this other letter re...
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 he wishes he could visit but leave for Naval personel is strictly limited and only in special circumstanc...
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...
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 ...
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...
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

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...
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.
15 April 1917 (postmark)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1587


Wiseman writes a follow-up letter to his telegram Tolkien had replied with a telegram saying that he has to report for duty on 19 April. Tolkien lends W...
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 happening. He asks him to send his wishes to Edith. He will write to her but not for a few days a...
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 also makes mention of Sidgwick & Jackson's interest ...
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 ...

1925

5 January 1925
Kenneth Sisam to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1650


Kenneth Sisam writes to Tolkien, enclosing the manuscripts for his glossary and tells Tollien to leave out "easy words". He had written that day to Gord...
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.
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 On 21 July 1925, the electors to the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship...
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 On 21 July 1925, the electors to the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-...
22 June 1925
Joseph Wright to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1708


Joseph Wright writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application On 21 July 1925, the electors to the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Angl...
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 On 21 July 1925, the electors to the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship...
25 June 1925
Allen Mawer to J.R.R. Tolkien (testimonial)
#1710


Allen Mawer writes a testimonial in support of Tolkien's application It was expected that Mawer would apply but he decided against it. On 21 July 1925, ...
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 On 21 July 1925, the electors to the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of A...
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...
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...
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...

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...
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, and explains some of the policies of the EETS. She promises to send Tolkien a copy of the Frenc...
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...
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...
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 "...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
10 December 1936
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1842


Susan Dagnall writes again to Tolkien on the matter of the Hobbit. His maps will require redrawing as there are too many colours. She suggests red and b...

1937

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....
23 January 1937
Susan Dagnall to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1846


Susan Dagnall of GA&U writes to Tokien asking if he can keep one day free, either 13 or 14 Fenruary free for her and C. A. Furth can visit Tolkien to di...
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 ahve 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...
20 February 1937
George Allen & Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1849


GA&U send to Tolkien a set of proofs for the Hobbit.
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...
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...
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.
23 March 1937
C.A. Furth (GA&U) to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1855


Replying to Tolkien's letter, Furth comfirms that Tolkien will receive proofs of the corrected portions for The Hobbit. Tolkien is warned that the corre...
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...
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...
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....
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. He n...
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.
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...
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...
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...
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 ...
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 ...
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...
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 ...
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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.
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...
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...
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...
7 October 1937
Mary St John [Wiseman] to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2034


Mary This letter is found among the Bodeian archives Tolkien Papers.
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, This letter is held at the Bodleian archives among their the Tolkien Papers.
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....
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 ...
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...
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.
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, ...
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'. This let...
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
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...
15th 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...
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...
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...
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...
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

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 ...
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
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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...
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...
25 April 1938
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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.
3rd May, 1938
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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...
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...
1 June 1938
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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...
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...
22 July 1938
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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.
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...
8 October 1938
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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...
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