ALS signed “John,” one page, 6.25 x 7, no date. A revealing letter to editor Pascal Covici regarding a hoped-for meeting. In part: “I’m called out to a dinner I cannot avoid. I’ll be back as soon as I can but I don’t know how soon that will be. I hope very early. You have been very patient with me. If you wish—will you call Wallenstein in 153 who will give you a drink and be nice to you until I return? If you do not want to do that, the clerk will give you my key. You will find a bottle of gin and a syphon. Have some and I will come back as soon as I can. You can have a nap. If, thoroughly disgusted, you go away, I shall be very sad.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds and several creases, mild overall toning with a few heavier spots, and soiling and tape remnants to reverse.
Pascal “Pat” Covici had edited a great number of Steinbeck’s books, including such classics as Cup of Gold (1927), Tortilla Flat (1935), Of Mice and Men (1937) The Grapes of Wrath (1939), and East of Eden (1952). The relationship between Covivi and Steinbeck was one of the most faithful in American literature, and they remained friends and colleagues until the editor’s death in 1964. This letter demonstrates their friendly repartee and hints at Steinbeck’s well-documented propensity for drink. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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