Collection of autograph letters and notes from controversial stand-up comedian Lenny Bruce, dating between 1960 and 1966, and consisting of 10 pages written in pencil and ballpoint, with Bruce adding his signature a total of five times. Much of the collection is addressed to ‘Count’ Lewis DePasquale, a jazz keyboardist and organist who, after meeting Bruce in January 1960, became his right-hand man and frequent collaborator. The archive is comprised of four ALSs and an unsigned letter. Highlights include (spelling and grammar retained):
A three-page letter to Count, in part: “See if you can buy the guitar, trumpet, saxophone and drummer that I loved in Atlantic city—you of course as leader you get $300. Per wk. See what the cheapest you can get them—talk to the guy at the Sir John Hotel,” with adding a brief postscript and adding his contact address: “Lenny Bruce, c/o S. Grush, 9460 Wilshire, Beverly Hills, Calif.”
A one-page letter to Count, penned on Ritz-Carlton, Atlantic City stationery, in part: “I want you to go to Miami & rent a room for me…Love, Lenny Bruce.”
A one-page letter, in part: “I bought a bracelet that was worth $8,000 dollars wholesale from a very good friend of mine Lewis. As soon as he writes and send’s bill of sale send him $150.00. Get the insurance co. pay off. Love, Lenny.”
An airmail envelope bearing a handwritten letter to Count, in part: “Please take the black suit case and send to (tag on case) adres and hold the plaid one until I get…one from my agent. Sincerely, Len Bruce.”
A notebook page written on both sides with pencil by Bruce, with the front addressed to “Norman,” and reads: “I’m leaving for Australia coming in Monday to see Hollywood for one day. I’d love to see 2 method boxers a spirited, ‘de lawd’…best to you all.”
Also includes two vintage glossy 3.25 x 4.5 candid photos of Bruce sitting in a court room, as well as a heavily edited letter draft handwritten by DePasquale, which concerns his youngest son’s health and his household finances. In overall very good to fine condition.
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