TOLKIEN, John Ronald Reuel (1892-1973). Author and philologist.
Autograph Letter Signed to Mr Ashton, father of a student of Tolkien's at Leeds, 2 pages 8vo, 2 Darnley Road, West Park, Leeds (blind stamp), 12 June 1925. A kindly and sympathetic letter discussing the consequences of the nervous breakdown suffered by Ashton's son [Ronald].

'... You may be sure that we shall both do our best. I think we both have an equally high opinion of your son, in every way, & appreciate both your sacrifice and the good use he has made of it.
 'But you must not be too down-cast. If even at the worst there remains nothing for it but for your son to take an 'aegrotat' degree without class, his work will not be wasted on on him, he himself will have profited by it; and as for advantages in getting a job, the recommendation of Prof Gough & myself will be worth using as much to him conceivably as a first class without such strong recommendations.
 '... If only he could have realized what mild and gentle folk we ferocious examiners actually are, & how well disposed to him perhaps he would not have worried so much. ...'

[No: 23282]