Offered here is an exceptional Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by Charles Dickens (1812–1870), one of the greatest novelists in English literature and author of Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, A Christmas Carol, Bleak House, and many other classics.

The letter is entirely handwritten and signed by Dickens at his residence:

Devonshire Terrace

Friday Night, 19th October 1849

The letter is accompanied by a PSA/DNA Letter of Authenticity (LOA), certification number AB09525.

Historical Context

This letter concerns Dickens' involvement with the General Theatrical Fund, one of Britain's oldest theatrical charitable institutions.

Dickens explains that previous commitments had prevented him from accepting similar invitations, but that he could not refuse the appeal made on behalf of the General Theatrical Fund. He further discusses the scheduling of a public dinner while emphasizing that the interests of the Institution should always come before personal preference.

The letter beautifully illustrates Dickens' lifelong dedication to philanthropy and public service in addition to his literary achievements.

Best Reading (Transcription)

Devonshire Terrace

Friday Night, Nineteenth October 1849

Sir,

Absence from home has prevented my replying to your letter until now. I beg you to accept this as my sufficient excuse for my long delay, and to pardon it.

I have excused myself, by reason of my engagements, from compliance with, and a second response to, similar requests with which you honor me on behalf of the Commercial Travellers' School and Provident Institution. But I cannot resist the claims of the General Theatrical Fund, and shall be happy to preside at its public dinner.

If the last day you name in November should be convenient to all parties, and quite as well calculated as any other to advance the interests of the Institution, I should prefer it. But I am quite sensible in repeating that the welfare of the Institution may be the first and greatest consideration.

Dear Sir,

Your faithful Servant,

Charles Dickens

Two Memorable Quotations

1.

"I cannot resist the claims of the General Theatrical Fund."

"I cannot refuse the call of the General Theatrical Fund."

This sentence reflects Dickens' lifelong commitment to charitable work and the theatrical community.

2.

"...the welfare of the Institution may be the first and greatest consideration."

"The welfare of the Institution should always be the first and greatest consideration."

This is the philosophical centerpiece of the letter, expressing Dickens' belief that the common good should always outweigh personal convenience.