5952. Messrs. Ticknor & Fields to RB

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 241–242.

No. 124 Tremont Street,

Boston,

August 27 1867.

Robert Browning Esq.

Au Croisic, Loire Inférièure France,

Dear Sir:

Your letter of 19 July duly reached us.

We regret that your English publishers cannot see their way to consent to the priority we desire. We should not abuse it in any way either by prior publication or the use of Extracts; but should simply employ the time to prepare the stereotype plates and print the edition. However we do not insist upon this Condition, and provided all our stipulations as to posting of sheets, duplicates &c receive careful attention, we are quite content to leave our interests in your hands, only asking that you will take care that we have a priority sufficient to enable us to publish Simultaneously. We surely ought to have the last sheets two weeks at the latest before the day of English publication. We shall be glad to know in advance at the earliest moment when the book is to be published in England.

We are dear Sir,

Very truly yours

Ticknor & Fields:

Mr Fields sends his kindest regards.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: University of Virginia.

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