A typed letter signed and a typed note signed (both in full) to the writer Jay [Martin]; n.p.,16 January and 13 July 1981

From the Bart Auerbach Collection. Together 2 pages, 4to, single-spaced. Item #409384

In the TNS of Jan. 16 Gardner writes that he did receive the copy of Martin's novel 'The Stolen Jew'. The TLS of July 13 is devoted to Gardner's explanation of why he can't write a letter to the 'New York Times' to complain about the negative review the book received: "... Though the review's dumb, it doesn't seem to me pernicious... I already have a reputation as a literary hit man, which I hate to give increasing evidence for... the review of 'The Stolen Jew' doesn't seem [really harsh], just stupid. I don't think it damages you; it merely fails to help you. (With Bellow [sic] and Roth, you're failing in very good company, if the review makes you seem to fail)..." (BA).

Price: $150.00