Elgar (Edward)

Autograph letter signed ('Edward Elgar') to Alfred Littleton, saying in part "I do not think the P.F. Piece in its present form entirely satisfactory. I have the M.S. now and may re-cast it. It's too long! I have written to Wood about the kind proposal you make to have the score and pulled parts ready for rehearsal...Now the marching song. I fear the consequences, I do not think it would be used for the purpose intended. Booseys, who are in touch with military band life, have a book of songs for soldiers with the band arrangements, But it has never been used. I wish you would get a copy and look at it, as far as I remember it is a good selection...What I fear is this: there isn't going to be any singing by the soldiers. Now I am keeping those songs you sent until Monday & will bring them with me & my final reply also", four pages, folding mark, 4to, Plas Gwyn, Herefordshire, 23 October 1907; with another autograph note from Elgar to Littleton, reading "enclose I send a formal letter to the firm; is it sufficient? Do not trouble to answer as i shall see you soon but perhaps you will get matters en train in case I have to sign formal papers", one page, integral blank, 4to, Pls Gwyn, Hereforshire, 25 October 1907. (2)