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British writer and artist (1865–1947) best known for her series of novels featuring the Scarlet Pimpernel. Handwritten page from Baroness Emma Orczy's draft for her popular novel The Scarlet Pimpernel, one page, 8 x 10.25, sent by the baroness to her publisher, Greening, to pass on to Newman Flower for use in connection with her article 'How I Wrote The Scarlet Pimpernel,' a contribution to The Story-Teller. The page , numbered "248," depicts a characteristic scene of gallantry in which Sir Percy Blakeney offers his service to a lady. In part: "He bowed very low and kissed her hand; she felt the burning kiss and her heart thrilled with joy and hope. 'You will come back?' she said tenderly. 'Very soon!' he replied, looking longingly into her blue eyes. 'And… you will remember?—' she asked, as her eyes, in response to his look, gave him an infinity of promise."
Includes two TLSs signed "Emmuska Orczy," each one page, 8 x 10, Cleve Court letterhead, January 12 and 17, 1909, both to Mr. Flower. The first, in part: "You will have by now received my little article on 'How I wrote the Scarlet Pimpernel.' I have also sent Mr. Greening a page of MS. which I see you propose using in 'The Story-teller.'" The second, in part: "As I have not heard from you again I take it that you have obtained the leaf of the 'Scarlet Pimpernel' MS all right. I am afraid it was my mistake sending it to Mr. Greening in Cornwall. I am very sorry but just now I cannot accept any definite commissions for short stories." In overall fine condition, with intersecting folds. Housed in a custom-made navy blue presentation folder with gilt-stamped morocco spine.
The Scarlet Pimpernel, originally written in 1902 by Baroness Orczy, is one of the most celebrated historical romances of all time, introducing Sir Percy Blakeney, a daring and iconic fictional hero. Despite its legendary status today, the manuscript faced numerous rejections, with over a dozen publishers declining it. It wasn’t until 1905, following the success of its dramatic adaptation, that the novel found an avenue for publication.
Over time, The Scarlet Pimpernel inspired numerous adaptations in theater and film, solidifying its enduring cultural impact—Marvel Comics co-creator Stan Lee described the masked protagonist as 'the first character who could be called a superhero.' The Baroness herself expanded the universe with a series of sequels, further exploring the thrilling exploits of Sir Percy and his secretive endeavors to rescue aristocrats from the clutches of the guillotine during the French Revolution.
Provenance: The Jeffrey Young Collection, Sotheby's, December 14, 1992.
