21 lines on recto only of single quarto sheet. The Newcomes was published in twenty four numbers, 1853-55. It followed the success of Vanity Fair (1847), which rapidly shot Thackeray to fame, and the subsequent novels were Pendennis (1848-50) and Henry Esmond (1852). This manuscript was probably requested by a charitable organisation or written out for a friend. This is a playful page advocating the benefits of being bad tempered: 'Surely a fine furious temper, if accompanied with a certain magnanimity and bravery. is one of the most precious and fortunate gifts with w[hi]c[h] a gentleman, a lady can be endowed. 'The lazy grow tired of contending with him; the timid coax and flatter him; and as almost every one is timid or lazy, a bad tempered man is want to have his own way. She [the bad tempered female] has the place which she likes in the drawing room. if the family are taking their tour in the summer it is she who ordains whether they shall go, and where they shall stop'. But God forbid you are a person of mild manners and temper: 'nobody cares whether we are pleased or not. Our wives go to the Milliners, & send us the bill, and we pay it. our sons loll in the arm chair we should like. and smoke in the dining room, our taylors fit us badly; our butchers give us the youngest mutton. and our servants go out whenever they like'. PLEASE NOTE: For customers within the UK this item is subject to VAT at 20%.

Seller Inventory # 56232

Contact seller

Report this item

Bibliographic Details

Title: Why be Good Tempered? One page of Manuscript in Thackeray's hand from volume I of his novel "The Newcomes". Signed and dated, May 30, 1860.
Publisher: 1860
Publication Date: 1860

Store Description

ABA, ILAB & PBFA member. Jarndyce Antiquarian Booksellers have been selling 18th & 19th Century English books, especially first editions of English Literature and Social History since 1969 and are world leading specialists in Dickens. Our premises are opposite the British Museum in Bloomsbury, London. We publish between 4 and 6 major catalogues per annum. As traditional and professional booksellers, we prefer to develop a personal relationship with collectors - and customers via the internet.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Association Member

Members of these associations are committed to maintaining the highest standards. They vouch for the authenticity of all items offered for sale. They provide expert and detailed descriptions, disclose all significant defects and/or restorations, provide clear and accurate pricing, and operate with fairness and honesty during the purchase experience.

Seller's business information

Jarndyce, The 19th Century Booksellers
46 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3PA, United Kingdom

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Payment on order by VISA, Mastercard, American Express. Postage and insurance to be added at cost. VAT to customers within the EU is applicable on some items.
ABE advises you: 'Buyers can contact sellers directly via the link in the search results'. We look forward to hearing from you.

Shipping Terms

Shipping charges are estimated by ABE. Contact us for an accurate quote. Orders usually ship within 2 business days. Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 LB, or 1 KG. If your book order is heavy or oversized, we may contact you to let you know extra shipping is required.
ABE advises you: 'Buyers can contact sellers directly via the link in the search results'. We look forward to hearing from you.

Shipping rates from United Kingdom to U.S.A.

Shipping rates from United Kingdom to U.S.A.
Order quantity	14 to 45 business days	5 to 10 business days
First item	US$ 47.01	US$ 47.01

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.

Payment Methods

Check Money Order Cash Invoice Bank Draft Bank/Wire Transfer

Add to Wants