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Lot #257
Roger Casement Typed Letter Signed

Scarce letter from the Irish nationalist's time in Germany: "In English, articles are reckoned by words, not by syllables"

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

Scarce letter from the Irish nationalist's time in Germany: "In English, articles are reckoned by words, not by syllables"

Irish nationalist, activist, and poet (1864-1916) who was executed for treason following the Easter Rising. Scarce TLS, one page, 8.25 x 11, March 27, 1915. Letter concerning a proposed German publication, in part: "I fear I shall be much too busy to write a special article on Ireland for some time. In any case it would have to be in English. I am not sure of the meaning of 2500 'Syllables.' In English, articles are reckoned by words, not by syllables. I equally have no idea of the prices paid in Germany—but for an article of that length in a leading English review I should receive at least £10.00. Perhaps you would state the scale." In very good condition, with chipping and small tears along edges (some repaired on the reverse with old tape).

Casement went to Germany in 1914 at the outbreak of WWI, and was able to negotiate an agreement by which Germany would not invade Ireland, should the war spread to its shores. During the rest of his time in Germany he attempted to recruit an 'Irish Brigade,' comprised of Irish prisoners-of-war from the prison camp of Limburg an der Lahn, to fight against the British. This plan failed, however, and Casement went on to try and arrange a large arms shipment from Germany to his countrymen—this too failed, when the ship was intercepted on its way. He returned to Ireland and was arrested just before the Easter Rising, and was controversially convicted and sentenced to death under an ambiguous medieval law.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts, Ft. Animation
  • Dates: #620 - Ended November 10, 2021





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