American explorer (1856–1920) best known for his claim as first to reach the North Pole; whether or not his expedition actually reached the target destination remains a long-argued point of history. TLS signed “R. E. Peary,” one page, 8 x 10.5, April 19, 1907. Peary writes to W. M. Colles in London. In part: “The whole matter of foreign copyright was entirely new to me, and in addition to this I have been more than occupied with work connected both with the last expedition and the forthcoming one…. I had the letters from several parties in regard to the disposal of the foreign rights of my book, and assuming that the book business was like any other in which it is entirely proper for one to endeavor to find the best market for whatever is to be disposed of, I gave each party an opportunity to see what they could do, reserving the privilege of accepting what seemed the most satisfactory offer.” The letter evidently relates to Peary’s book Nearest the Pole, published in the same year. In very good condition, with mild, even toning, wrinkles, secretarial stamps, and slight haloing to signature. R&R COA.
