An autograph letter signed by J.R.R. Tolkien to a Miss Turnbull in Whitby, Yorkshire. Two pages, octavo, on one leaf with printed letterhead (76 Sandfield Road, Headington, Oxford), dated 19 May 1955, with the original envelope addressed in his hand; in fine condition, folded once across the centre to fit the envelope.

Tolkien thanks Miss Turnbull for her 'munificent and magnificent gift' (apparently champagne), apologises profusely for the tardy response [the gift having arrived two days earlier!!!] and discusses what was presumably the cause for celebration ‒ clearing his desk of The Return of the King. 'Though sending off the last items [with a marginal comment 'and at last'] for Vol III might have seemed a suitable occasion for the withdrawing of at least one cork, I have so far refrained; but when I drink I shall remember with a gratitude at least as warm and deep as Old Rory felt for the bottles of Old Winyards. I can only hope Vol III will be up to it!' The rest is history ...