The Big Sea: 1940 Stated First Edition, Alfred A. Knopf. Front free endpaper inscribed,

  "For Frity and Marjorie, with happy memories of pleasant evenings at their home. Sincerely, Langston, Carmel, January 10, 1941."

Found tucked between the pastedown and free end paper is a typed letter with a "Hollow Hills Farm (Carmel Valley) Jamesburg Route, Monterey, Califoria" letterhead. The typed letter is hand-signed in pen by Langston Hughes and also made out to Fritz and Marjorie.  In the letter, Langston Hughes describes his state of being ill while staying at Fritz and Marjorie's cottage, and enjoying Fritz and Marjorie's "Gay and beutiful little plant" while it was raining outside. Hughes goes on to thank Fritz and Marjorie for lending him their copy of 'Poor People' (likely referring to the novel by Dostoevsky). The last paragraph of the letter makes reference to 'Noel' and looking forward to a Dorothy Maynor concert. 'Noel' is a reference to Noel Sullivan, whom Hughes shared a lifelong friendship with and was a well known wealthy arts patron. Noel Sullivan is documented to have provided Langston Hughes with housing in San Francisco, as well as a cottage in Carmel, this Hollow Hills Farm being that cottage.  

Dimensions: The Big Sea: 8 5/8" x 6" x 1 3/8."  Typed and Hand signed letter: 8 3/8" x 5.5"

This lot may be picked up free of charge from our facilities in Sacramento, CA. Processing and shipping within the Continental US $65.00. All FedEx packages are sent with Direct Signature Required and insured at full replacement value for a fee of 1.5% of the purchase price, unless buyer accepts complete liability in writing. Discounts given on combined lot shipping.

The Big Sea is in Good vintage condition. Spine faded. Slight spine lean. Stain front board. Binding, spine, and hinges Good.