British composer (1842–1900) best known for his collaborations on more than a dozen classic comic operas with librettist W. S. Gilbert, including H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, and The Mikado. ALS, one page, 4.25 x 6.5, Queen’s Mansions letterhead, January 31, 1896. Letter to a different Arthur. In full: “Will you dine here on Sunday next 8:10? The Kinskys (she is my new prima donna) are coming—also the Gilberts. Do come.” In fine condition, with a few light scattered creases. This was the year of Gilbert and Sullivan’s last collaboration, The Grand Duke, which starred Ilka Palmay (who was, at the time, married to Austrian Count Eugen Kinsky). The opera debuted at the Savoy Theatre on March 7, 1896, and ran for 123 performances. A great letter that marks beginning of the end of one of opera’s most enduring partnerships. RRAuction COA.
