FRAZER, James George (1854-1941). An important autograph letter, signed ("J. G. Frazer"), four-pages, dated "Trinity College [Cambridge], 15 October 1902", to the classical scholar and archaeologist A. B. Cook.

FRAZER, James George (1854-1941, Scottish anthropologist and folklorist).  An important autograph letter, signed ("J. G. Frazer"), four-pages, dated "Trinity College [Cambridge], 15 October 1902", to the classical scholar and archaeologist A. B. Cook. A revealing and generous letter in which, in conclusion, the author expresses genuine gratitude for "... by far the most instructive criticism of 'The Golden Bough ... that has yet appeared." The long and detailed letter opens, "I feel I cannot delay to thank you for your very instructive and suggestive criticism of my book, which I have read for the first time (it will not be the last) with great interest and, I think, I may truly add, pleasure. It is criticism of the best kind, which not merely exposes weaknesses or actual errors, but indicates the direction in which better and truer views are to be sought ... I shall probably modify my theory in at least one important respect." He goes on to discuss, among other things, some photographs of "the finds at Nemi" and excavations in Rome. Provenance: Sotheby's, London: The Property of Ivor Powell, 21 & 22 July, 1980, lot 143.