Description A pair of 19th century autograph letters, written home from and Englishman working for a Chinese company. Ink on wove paper watermarked "Joynson Superfine." Each 4 pp., 8vo. Dated May 5th and May 12th, 1884. Written from the Kiang Ging Military Camp and from Nankin (respectively), signed by C. Hawes (?) **************** Written during an interesting period during the Chinese?French war. The writer uses his ink to complain over his lack of money and comfort, his difficulty in obtaining witnesses for documents, and his distaste for locals. His negative opinions (which are quite candidly stated) likely stemmed from the death of his brother, as he writes, "I got very sick of running about London for employment. I am sure no one would serve these barbarians unless obliged to do so. I am exactly on the opposite side of the river to Flawey Point where my brother was killed by them... If one wants to despise the planet he resides on and the beings in it, this is the place to learn to do it." A typed transcript accompanies the letters.
Condition Report Some creasing and toning, Good.