ALS, one page, 4.25 x 7, February 15, 1848. Letter to actuary H. P. Smith, stating that he will "proceed to the scratch, and underwrite Sir Archer Denman Croft. I should say he was a highly sensible man, though that instance of his judiciousness which you send me is not a special one—the case being so clear. And I will not forget the Italian letters." In fine condition.
H. P. Smith was for many years an actuary with the Eagle Life Assurance Company. In providing Dickens with life insurance, he became a close friend of the author and was godfather to Dickens's son Sydney. Sir Archer Denman Croft was director of The General Reversionary and Investment Company. In 1848, Dickens wrapped up the serialization of Dombey and Son, and published the last of his Christmas novellas, The Haunted Man and the Ghost's Bargain. A desirable, prominently signed letter by the great English writer.
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