[ Margaret L. Woods, novelist and author. ] Autograph Letter Signed ('M. L. Woods.') to 'Mr Sladen' [ i.e. the author Douglas Sladen ], regarding a bereavement, 'Captain Christmas', Horace Annesley Vachell and the publisher John Lane.

2pp., 8vo. In good condition, lightly aged. She condoles with her over her 'sad loss last June. I had no idea of it, or I should have written to express my sympathy at the time. I was so much interested to meet your son, & hear how splendidly he had done.' On receiving Sladen's letter she wrote to her neice Betty Brichenough, and wonders if 'Captain Christmas', i.e. Danish sea captain and author Captain Walter Christmas (1861-1924), has heard from her. Fearing that she has mislaid Christmas's card she asks Sladen to write to him on her behalf. She discusses her plans for returning to London in December, and asks 'whether it would be worth introducing Captain Christmas to John Lane? - (Not that I have any influence with Lane.)' Referring to the author Horace Annesley Vachell (1865-1955), she writes that he is 'a distant relative of mine, though I don't know him', but she would think he might have helped Christmas 'with stage introductions, as they have collaborated.' She would be delighted to 'come some Wednesday, but I know Mrs Roy Batty, who is a member of the Writers'. She is a charming person, & I am always pleased to meet her.' She explains that she is in Southwold, 'looking after a delicate grandson'.