German linguistic scholars and authors (Jacob, 1785–1863; Wilhelm, 1786–1859) best known for their compilations of sometimes violent folk tales that have come to be recognized as childhood classics, including the Bremen Town Musicians, Little Red Riding Hood, and Hansel and Gretel. Two items: ALS in German, signed “[Jacob] Grimm,” one page, 8.5 x 7, November 10, 1805. In part (translated): “The newly published book from L. Schlegel that I mean is not his romantic dictations but a book which has just been published … which title I do not remember. Please send it to me, as well as the Almanac for 1806 … also an elegy…. Do you know if the Voice of the People is among the six volumes already published?… I beg you also to order the books marked on the enclosed list and to have them sent to my house….” The letter retains a wax seal remnant at the lower edge. Also included: ALS in German, signed “W[ilhelm] C. Grimm,” one page, 7.5 x 4.5, no date. In part (translated): “I take the liberty of asking you, with all due consideration, to lend me for a few days the second volume of the Spanish Theater, if you should have it.” Accompanied by four handwritten sheets with translations and biographical information from a nineteenth-century collector. The letters and accompaniments are housed in an early gilt-stamped red morocco folder that bears the bookplate of collector Edward B. King. In very good condition overall. The letters are partially affixed to the same blank sheet. Jacob’s letter has faint toning and spotting and light edge wear; Wilhelm’s letter has two holes, a clipped corner, and small edge separations (all confined to blank portions and well away from writing), and light show-through from docket on reverse. Both letters are darkly penned. LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
