494. Tolkien (J.R.R., author and philologist, 1892-1973) Autograph Letter signed to Elsie Honeybourne, 2pp., 8vo, Headington, Oxford, 21st December 1967, discussing her surname, “I think it still probable that your father’s name nonetheless comes from near Evesham. It must be derived from a place-name; and though -Bourne (stream) is widespread in England, and occurs in Kentish names, Honeybourne is found only in Cow H. and Church H. near Evesham. There was a considerable movement and interchange between Kent and Worcestershire, largely because of the industries of fruit-growing. I shall certainly put Honeybourne on the Shire Map as soon as an opportunity of revision (much needed) occurs”, and commenting on the end of The Lord of the Rings, “I was deeply interested in your choice of passages, and quite agree about Pippin’s ride. An easing of tension was needed at the end of the ‘Book’ (but of course provided instinctively and not by planning). To ride with Gandalf must have been like being borne by a Guardian Angel, with stern gentleness a most comforting combination to children (as we all are)”, and sending a newly published story”, folds ; and a small quantity of ephemera relating to Tolkien including 2 T.Ls.s. from Joy Hill, 1968, informing Miss Honeybourne that Professor Tolkien had moved from Oxford and that he was recovering from a “minor accident”, folds (sm. qty)
est. £800 – £1200