Nobel Prize–winning Irish dramatist and critic (1856–1950) who takes a place among the most distinguished and influential literary figures of his time. ALS signed “GBS,” one page both sides, 7 x 4.25, personal Ayot St. Lawrence letterhead, February 5, 1916. Shaw writes to Lillah [McCarthy]. In part: “Harley [McCarthy’s husband, actor and dramatist Harley Granville-Barker] came down here after his interview with you. He had also had an interview with his dentist, who tugged at his tooth without succeeding in extracting it. He went back to Boulogne with a toothache and a chill, and had a tempestuous crossing. I heard from him yesterday, but only as to his arrival, the misery of his journey, and the return of a coat I lent him. Of the interview he said that you had persisted in asking what you had done, whereas the point was that you hadn’t done anything, and that he was the delinquent, and didn’t defend himself and couldn’t help it. He described you as acting with complete dignity and putting an end to the interview yourself, but giving him no hint of a decision of any kind. When I met you on Saturday in the car, I had just arranged with him that we should go down to Ayot by the 5:49 tram. As I thought it would spoil your week and if you knew he was within reach, I suppressed the fact with smiling treachery. I look forward to a Judgment Day for him … and you will give him tea and shew him your four beautiful children. And your human husband will grin affably at him….” Vertical fold (touching paraph) and scattered wrinkles, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
