Two-page autograph letter, signed. On folded sheet, 18x11 cm. (7x4¼"). Original envelope, addressed by Dickens, present.

Dickens addresses a John W. Calcraft, Esquire: "Sir. I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your obliging letter. The amateur company, however, being for the present dispersed, and their performances in behalf of the Shakespeare Curatorship having been brought to a close in Scotland, last summer, I am unable to entertain your proposal. I am sir, Your faithful servant, Charles Dickens". Provenance: Acquired by William Randolph Hearst from Anderson Galleries, February, 1922. Sold through Hammer Galleries for Gimbel Brothers, 1941. Letters from Hammer Galleries and Gimbel Brothers and sales tags from Gimbel Brothers present.