ROBERT KEELEY - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 07/1829 - HFSID 277580

ROBERT KEELEY
Keeley handwrote and signed this undated letter to James Thorne, Esq. about Thorne's upcoming visit to London... which coincided with Keeley opening a show at the Lyceum Theatre. This rare letter also includes the signature of "Mrs Keeley" by his wife.
Autograph letter signed "R. Keeley". Also signed "Mrs Keeley/he made me write it" in unknown hand. 2 pages, 7¾x12¼ (one sheet folded, front and verso). Addressed to James Thorne, Esq. at Theatre Royal, Edinburgh, Scotland. Keeleywrote this letter to plan Thorne's visit to London. He also chided Thorne for his timing: "you talk very grand and cooly about coming home on Friday, and do you know, you fool you, that we open at the Lyceum on Saturday the 27th of this month..." Keeley (1793-1860) was a well-known British actor who had starred in productions at Covent Garden. He was a successful low comedian, with a humorous style based on his stocky appearance, slow, jerky delivery and a good line in pathos. Keeley's roles include Dogbery inMuch Ado About Nothing and the nurse Mrs. Gamp in the stage version of Dickens' Martin Chuzzlewit, in which he was coached by Charles Dickens himself. Lightly toned, stained and creased. One-third of page 3 and 4 is missing. Wax Seal remnant on page 4 with paper loss (does not touch writing or signature). Small tear on right side of page 1. Folded five times horizontally and twice vertically. Heavily worn, torn, toned and with pinholes along folds. Otherwise in fine condition.