ALS signed “Phineas T. Barnum,” one page, 8.25 x 11, illustrated Barnum and Bailey letterhead, February 22, 1889. Barnum writes from Bridgeport to Mr. Bartlett. In part: “I write in haste to say I shall be glad to get & pay for your book when it is published & will try to hit some American friend who will bring it over—unless you know some party who will bring it. I am certain it must be very interesting. We are busy getting the big show ready to open in New York March 35th. It grows larger & more marvelous annually….” The letterhead includes a breathless profusion of come-ons, including “Truthful … Moral … Instructive,” “Entirely new, larger & better than ever before,” and “Gigantic aggregation of living curiosities.” Intersecting mailing folds (vertical fold to first letter of last name; small separations at top edge, tape-repaired from reverse), mild wrinkling, and a few tiny stains, otherwise fine condition. A fine, showy example with a lesser-seen form of the great showman’s signature! R&R COA.
