English novelist and the author of such classics as Oliver Twist, A Tale of Two Cities and David Copperfield. ALS signed “C. D.,” one page, 4.5 x 7, December 25, 1849. Letter to English journalist William Jerdan, sending holiday greetings and information concerning his dispute with Thomas Powell. In full, “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! As you reprint the extraordinary lies of the New York Herald, perhaps you may like to know something more of their authority. I therefore send you for your own perusal (for I must not anticipate the defence to the ingenious Mr. Powell’s American actions for libel) a few small passages in the life of the distinguished ‘literary gentleman from England,’ who is in question.” Letter is affixed to a larger sheet by its integral second page. In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds and some light creasing to left edge. According to the Pilgrim Edition, under the heading ‘Anglo-American and Journalist Row,’ the Literary Gazette of Dec. 22 had reprinted the New York Herald’s account [Oct. 22] of Powell’s Life of C. D., followed by the Herald’s entirely fanciful explanation that the quarrel between Dickens and Powell had arisen through losses both had incurred from railway speculation. The Gazette then reprinted the Herald’s attack on Dickens, accusing him of having “since his brilliant reception by our codfish aristocracy, and the honours of ‘Boz Ball’…becoming exceedingly consequential and exclusive.” Darkly penned letter shows an unusual side of Dickens. LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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