System Number: 10879
Date: [7/10 September 1881/1882][1]
Author: JW
Place: London
Recipient: Sydney Morse[2]
Place: London
Repository: Library of Congress
Call Number: Manuscript Division, Pennell-Whistler Collection, PWC 14/1246/1
Document Type: TLc
My dear Morse
I had hoped that you would have looked in on me before now - for I want to show you how completely I have toasted Master Howell[3]. I have called two or three times upon you, but have been most unlucky - however kindly send me the letters[4] you promised me from Howell concerning the Cabinet - so that my mass of detail may be complete - for I assure you the whole chain is too perfect to admit of any missing link. -
Kindly write me word when do you think I may have the letters.
With kindest regards
Very sincerely yours
J. McNeill Whistler.
13, Tite Street,
Chelsea.
This document is protected by copyright.
Notes:
1. [7/10 September 1881/1882]
This appears to date from immediately before JW's letter to S. Morse, 11 September [1881/1882], #10878.
2. Sydney Morse
Sydney Morse (1854-1929), solicitor [more].
3. Master Howell
Charles Augustus ('Owl') Howell (1840? - d.1890), entrepreneur [more]. This relates to the story of the Chinese 'pagoda' cabinet sold by JW to Morse in September 1878 with Howell apparently acting as agent. Soon afterwards, it became the subject of an elaborate deception instigated by Howell. Contrary to Howell's claim that he had taken it in for repair, it later turned out that he had pawned the head-piece. JW published his version of events in Whistler, James McNeill, Correspondence. Paddon Papers. The Owl and the Cabinet, London, [1882].
4. letters
Presumably, JW wanted the letters for Whistler, James McNeill, Correspondence. Paddon Papers. The Owl and the Cabinet, London, [1882].