[Charles Kean and his wife Ellen Tree prepare to return from America.] Autograph Letter Signed ('Rt. Clarke.') from Robert Clarke to Benjamin Webster, asking on Kean's behalf for 'information respecting Theatres in England', discussing Kean and wife.

2pp, 12mo. Bifolium, endorsed 'Clarke' on reverse of second leaf. In fair condition, lightly aged and worn. Folded three times. The letter begins: 'My dear Webster, | Charles Kean has requested me to give him information respecting Theatres in England, in which it is probable he may form engagements on his return from America, as he wishes his plans to be arranged if possible previous to his departure from the United States, so as he may see his way clearly on his arrival in England.' He asks whether it would answer Webster's purpose 'to make any proposal to him'. Kean's 'new Play by Lovel [i.e. George William Lovell], the Wife's Secret, is effective I understand and the Play was written for Kean and Mrs. Kean, but the latter I learn is the feature.' Clarke will write to Kean 'in a few days and I shall have much pleasure in making any communication to him you may wish. His list of parts as well as Mrs. Keans is considerably extended sicne their marriage and you can best judge whether this fact may have attraction.' Clarke trusts that 'the Haymarket with its twin sister, the Adelphi are prospering', and his wife joins with him 'in best regards to the Managers of each establishment'. He ends with 'the Season's Compliments', and in a postscript thanks him 'for the Observers you send me'. In the event the Keans made a highly successful return to the Haymarket.