Lot 279

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

(1917-1992) Highly decorated Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot and group captain during the Second World War. Good content T.L.S. 2pp. 8vo., London, Jan. 4, 1983, to American Sgt. David Phillips. He thanks his correspondent for his previous letters and transmits a signed photo (not present), and goes on to answer a question about the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, in part: "...I suppose my first reaction was one of immense relief that at long last that dreadful war was finished. Had it not been for the bomb America would have had to launch her full scale frontal assault on the mainland of Japan from many thousands of miles away and the Japanese had issued instructions that if this should happen every POW was to be shot. At the same time the bomb revealed what it would mean to the world if another major war had to be fought. I believe that the existence of the bomb makes war between major powers no linger a rational option and therefore impossible. So in some ways perhaps it is a blessing." He signs at the conclusion in blue ink. In very good condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via USPS Priority, USPS International Priority, DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

April 30, 2019 10:00 AM EDT
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000