ALS in pencil, signed “Edison,” two lightly lined pages, 5 x 8, no date. Edison writes to an employee named Paullin regarding the production of recordings. In full: “I have thought over various plans but the only one that is not complex is to use the 240 now in use & take out a lot of Opera & improve it. The ones we take out never to be used—This will permit us to put some go sellers & make the 1st year set as good as the other six years—Go to work & suggest the present 240 be changed to have some relative character & suggest which records are to be withdrawn. We can afford to remove a large number perhaps 75—Give me the whole list & I will also listen to them & pick out some bad tunes among the good selling type=Our first year lot ought to be best lot anyhow." Edison’s direct involvement in the selection of recordings by listening to them is particularly interesting in light of the fact that he suffered from advanced deafness. In very good condition, with even toning to sheets, pinholes, edge tears (not touching text; one fragile) and light edge wear. The writing remains clear and completely unaffected, and, properly displayed, the letter’s visual impression will easily rate as fine. R&R COA.
