This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/4/2019
Ian Fleming could never have guessed the impact his creation would have on British culture, cinema, or the world's perception of British espionage. The enduring adoration for James Bond is something which could never had been conceived as Fleming sat down in Jamaica in January 1952, and succeeded in his quest to write the spy story to end all spy stories. Offered here is an ultra-rare letter written from Fleming to journalist and spy Antony Terry, dated September 17, 1951 - clearly, Fleming's interest in espionage had already begun at this point! Antony Terry was a giant of Cold War journalism, a Nazi-hunter, a spy, and a master manipulator - Fleming hemself called Terry "by far the best correspondent in Germany". In this particular letter, Fleming praises Terry for his work on a certain assignment in Germany, naming it "as the most important politically of any of our correspondents". He finishes the letter hoping that Terry's "shoulders now feel strong enough to assume the mantle which [he was] intent on thrusting upon them". The typwritten letter on Kemsley House letterhead is signed in black steel tip, "Yours sincerely, Ian Fleming". Fleming has also handwritten at the top "Dear Antony Terry". In good condition with two horizontal folds and minor handling wear. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).