HENRY JAMES. Autograph Letter signed: "Henry James", front and verso, 6½x8. Carlyle Mansions, Cheyne Walk S. W., Kensington (England), 1913 June (date missing). Signed on verso. To "Dear Mrs. Howland". In full: "Indeed I remember Indianapolis very well & your, & the University Club's kindness to me there. I hear with great pleasure that you are in England & should like very much to see you. The best way would be if you could come to lunch with me on Tuesday or Wednesday or Friday, 17th, 18th or 20th of next week, when I will make you very welcome. Let it be 1:45, please, if you can stay your stomach till then. But choose your day & believe me yours very truly." James, (1843-1916), prolific author of fiction, travel essays and literary criticism, was an American who lived and traveled often in Europe. His novels are remarkable for their sensitively drawn female characters. He portrays the innocence of the New World in conflict with corruption and wisdom of the Old. Among his masterpieces are Daisy Miller (1879), The Portrait of a Lady (1881), The Bostonians (1886), The Wings of The Dove (1902), and The Ambassadors (1903). James's most famous short stories include "The Turn of the Screw," a ghost story. Paper missing (¼x½) at upper right, removing date. ½" diagonal tear at lower right edge. Soiled on 1/3 of each side, touching flourish of signature, but text is fully visible. Vertical fold crosses "ry" of signature.