['Mrs. Oliphant' (Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant), Scottish author.] Autograph Letter Signed ('M. O. W. Oliphant') to 'Mr. Payn', i.e. James Payn, editor of the Cornhill Magazine, submitting for publication her son's story 'The Grateful Ghosts'.

1p, 12mo. In good condition, lightly aged. Folded once. Referring to her son Francis Romano ('Cecco') Oliphant (1859-1894), she writes: 'Dear Mr. Payn | I send you with this in a registered packet by book post a story written by my youngest son, called "The Grateful Ghosts" which he wishes me to submit to you.' Her opinion is that the story 'would bear compression but that is usual to youthful productions'. She will be 'much gratified' if Payn likes it 'and can use it', and feels sure he will give it his consideration. Payn evidently declined the story, as it was published in Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine in January 1886.