From John Lane, writing on his return from New York regarding the printing of the new volume, The Buckle My Shoe Picture Book: 'Unfortunately last year's reprint was rendered unprofitable on account of the cost of endpapers, covers etc. Please understand that I am not questioning the value of the designs or their attractiveness, I admire them far to much to [sic] do that; but it is a question of how much the books can stand in the way of expenditure… John Lane Company have suggested to me that the designs should be carried out by a less distinguished hand on account of the expense, but I should much prefer them to be done by you provided you can accept my terms.'
Dated at The Bodley Head, Vigo St.
Typescript with autograph.
Includes a note in Crane's hand of his reply dated 27 May 1910, on the reverse, agreeing to the terms: 'In view of what you say, & as of course it w[ou]ld not do for the additions to be made by another hand, I shall be prepared to meet you in the matter of price… It is of course a considerable reduction, but for the sake of preserving the character of the books I consent to your proposal.'