London: N.p., 1978

Single sheet ALS on recto only. Personalised stationery, the printed address deleted and the new one added in Garner's hand. Faint creases from folding for posting, a little age-toning, one small and very faint stain to bottom left, not affecting text. Envelope not present.

ALS FROM ALAN GARNER TO LEO McKERN, DATED 3 MAY 1978, FOLLOWING AN EVENTFUL VISIT TO THE THEATRE.

Leo McKern was in the last week of the run of Michael Elliott's troubled production of Crime and Punishment at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, when Alan Garner, the novelist and creator of the Brisingamen trilogy, came to see the show, He made an untimely backstage appearance afterwards:

'Dear Leo McKern,

I hope that my intrusion on your underpants last night was not remiss. At the best of times I have a disinclination to barge into dressing rooms after a show. However, I knew a little of the traumas surrounding Michael's production & so was moved to say to your face that I not only enjoyed the evening but admired its execution. You will know that you have a difficult part -- & I simply would add that you also have my respect for your craftsmanship & art.

It was not the time to relax & eat, but I noted the intent! May I keep the idea casually in mind? It would be very pleasant to be convivial when we are both in a vein.

Thank you again -- for all your performances.

Yours ever,

Alan Garner'

Very well preserved, and written in Garner's beautiful script.