Joshua Slocum Autograph Letters Signed.

SLOCUM, Joshua.

$1,800.00

Item Number: 146633

Rare autograph letters signed by the first person to sail single-handedly around the world. Royal octavo, one page on Yacht ‘Spray’ ruled onionskin stationary, the text reads in full, “Fairhaven Mass Sept 1st 1898 Dear Mrs Anthony: Will you please accept my thanks for the nice book received from your hand? The work shall remain in the Spray Library a souvenir of her snug berth at [Saint] Anthony Bight. Again with thanks I am most sincerely, Joshua Slocum The ‘Spray.'” In very good condition with mail folds, some creasing, a few small closed tears, and a tiny loss to the right edge. A second letter, octavo, one page, reads in full, “Dear Mrs Anthony, “Referring again to the Spray and the day we were shipmates along with noble friends I remember, generous and true. I recall my feeble efforts: to make all comfortable in that awful squall which came down upon us off Woods Hole: I was aware of the coolness which, even my best friends manifested on that occasion and it nearly broke my heart; but not until the other night at your fireside did I know that in my efforts to spread a sheltering awning, wretched man that I am, I managed to turn the downpour all down your backs. How forgiving my friends are to let the matter pass so lightly by! And am I forgiven? Madam I beg you will say yes to my prayer. Inclosed will please find my card which I forgot to bring the other night? In deep humiliation for all shortcomings I am sincerely Joshua Slocum.” In near fine condition with mail folds and very light toning.

Joshua Slocum launched his rebuilt gaff rigged sloop oyster boat off of Boston, Massachusetts in 1895, beginning his solo circumnavigation of the earth on the 'Spray.' He recorded the experience of over 46,000 miles of travel in his serial published memoir 'Sailing Alone Around the World,' which was received with great enthusiasm by readers and granted high praise from authors and journalists of the English-speaking world. English Poet and author of 'The Light of Asia' Sir Edwin Arnold called it, "the most extraordinary book ever published."