American lawyer-turned-writer (1889–1970) best known as the creator of fictional defense attorney Perry Mason. TLS, one page, pictorial personal letterhead, June 9, 1959. Gardner writes to Mrs. Kenneth R. Cunningham in Essex, Connecticut. In part: “Well bless your soul, aren’t you considerate to think of me in connection with the old Perry Mason solicitation from the Youth’s Companion…. When I created my character, I got the name Mason and for some reason or other the first name of Perry seemed to go with him just like ham went with eggs and I couldn’t figure the reason but I was uncomfortable when I tried any other name. I think now that this probably is due to the fact that my subconscious mind remembered the old Perry Mason name in connection with the Youth’s Companion….” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Intersecting mailing folds (vertical fold to middle name), otherwise very fine, fresh condition. R&R COA.
