TOLKIEN J. R. R.: (1892-1973) English writer, author of the classic fantasy works The ...

TOLKIEN J. R. R.: (1892-1973) English writer, author of the classic fantasy works The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. T.L.S., J. R. R. Tolkien, one page, 4to, Headington, Oxford, 24th November 1967, to Miss. Karen C. Walker. Tolkien commences his letter by asking 'Am I right in thinking that your mother was Cecile Barbier?' and continues 'I have recently met her sister Marie (who married her cousin and remains Barbier), and one of her daughters'. The author further writes 'I remember your grandfather, Paul Barbier, very well. He was extremely kind to me as a very young man on my first university job. He was a great scholar and a great character, and I remember a good deal about him' and informs his correspondent 'I have been ill for some time and am now very heavily engaged with work of my own, and putting memories of this kind in order actually takes up a good deal of time, and I haven't any to spare at present' although concludes 'But I will jot down things that I remember from time to time and perhaps you would like to jog my memory early next year to see what I have got for you' . Accompanied by the original envelope. Together with a T.L.S. by Tolkien's assistant, Phyllis M. Jenkinson, with her initials ('P.M.J.'), on behalf of the writer, one page, 8vo, Headington, Oxford, 29th February 1968, also to Miss. Karen Walker. Tolkien writes, in part, 'I am afraid I haven't had any time to jot any memories of your grandfather down, as I have had a very disturbing and troubling time.....I cannot see any relief from pressure for some time ahead and I am afraid it is no good my asking you to jog my memory again….but I will keep you in mind.....in case I find some moment'. Accompanied by the original envelope. VG to about EX, 2

Paul Barbier (1873-1947) Professor of French at Leeds University 1903-38 who has been described as 'an exceptional scholar and inspiring teacher as well as an efficient adminstrator'. Barbier was a keen linguist and took a particular interest in words and names which led him to focus on lexicographical studies.