Sold For $245
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ALS signed “T. Cooke,” one page, 7.5 x 9, March 8, 1831. In part: “I am sorry I cannot see you to day, and glad to find that it being the Messiah on the 18th in which I am not engaged, I can have the pleasure of having the entire day at the Fund Dinner. I shall be…at D. L. tomorrow where I hope to meet you.” Intersecting folds, scattered toning and soiling, repaired upper left corner, a few collector notations, and an area of thin paper and old tape residue along the right side, otherwise very good condition.
Cooke was the first actor to ever play Frankenstein’s monster, taking to the stage in an 1823 adaptation. His make-up left him, by one account, with a ‘shriveled complexion, lips straight and black, and a horrible ghastly grin.’ Though inspired by Mary Shelley’s novel, the performance of ‘The Fate of Frankenstein’ is said to have freely departed from her work, however, the author is said to have seen the performance and was delighted by his portrayal. In January 1831—two months before sending this letter—Cooke began a starring role in a double nautical bill—as William in ‘Black-Eyed Susan’ and as Long Tom Coffin in ‘The Pilot, or a Tale of the Sea.’ Desirable correspondence from the man who was the first to become a ‘monster.’ Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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