The collection consists of three items: letter to Dear Mrs. Charles, 4 July 1891, regretting that he has not seen more of her, with local news and observations; typewritten letter to Dear Storrs, 12 April 1935, recounting his travels and expressing pleasure that Storrs praised his book; poem, illustrated with sketches of a ship, a figure, a landscape, and a flutophone-type instrument, with the first line, As one who hath sent forth in bold surprise. Also, envelope, with a note, dated 1955, indicating Miss Collins, G.K. Chesterton's secretary, affirmed the enclosure (presumably the poem) was written by Belloc.
In Rare Books and Manuscripts, University Libraries, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA (#1968-0084R/VF Lit)
Source of Acquisition
Purchased from Ifan Kyrle Fletcher; Henry Bristow, 1968; 1977.
Biographical or Historical Sketch
Hilaire Belloc was a talented and versatile man of letters. Born in France, he returned to England with his British mother and eventually became a citizen. He was educated at Balliol College, Oxford, and made his living as an author. He wrote on remarkably diverse subjects, sometimes in conjunction with G.K. Chesterton, and was perhaps most popular for his light verse. A colorful and controversial personality, he was fueled by his Catholic faith and European heritage, and held many strong prejudices. In addition to being a prolific writer, Belloc led an active and dynamic life.
Binding notes
Housed in ShareBox 064 boxShare064 GST/P/1/4 c.1 (Archival/Manuscript Material) bound in ShareBox 064
