Letter to Humphrey Carpenter

From Tolkien Gateway
Humphrey Carpenter 21 March 1967.jpg

On 21 March 1967, J.R.R. Tolkien wrote a letter to Humphrey Carpenter.[1][2]

Transcription[edit | edit source]

Dear Mr. Carpenter,

You may certainly have my permission to use my book The Hobbit as a basis for a children's play. My publishers are, of course, also concerned in all forms of reproduction, but normally no objection is raised when only a limited non-commercial performance is in view. With regard to the setting of verses as songs, I am not sure what the position is. If this is intended to lead to publication, both my publishers and the Performing Rights Society (of which I am now a Member) would have to be consulted.

It is a long time since we met and I should be delighted to see you again. Unfortunately I am very busy at the present and am going away on April 1st, so that I am afraid I shan’t be able to arrange a meeting until the end of that month. Perhaps you could get in touch with me then and see what could be done. Please thank you[r] mother for her good wishes and kind regards, which we heartily return.

With best wishes to yourself,

Yours sincerely,

J.R.R. Tolkien.

References