A hand written letter from HENRY AINLEY who was born in 1979 and died in 1945. Henry Hinchcliffe Ainley was an English Shakespearean stage and screen actor appearing on stage and in many films.

This letter was written from his home Belle Vue House, Ikley, Yorkshire at Christmas 1939. It was written to Mr & Mrs Gray (Mr Gray was secretary of the Actors Benevolent Fund at this time) and comes complete with the original envelope.

He writes(unfortunately there are 2 words I am unable to read):

My dear Mr and Mrs Gray

You are kindness personified.  I love the three  *****!  *******        Scotch! It was indeed a token of good friendship to remember me. 1940 will be my lucky year. I've turned the corner , but I owe all to you,  as  I am gradually beginning to realise. It will be grand to work again. Every good wish now and always.

Your very grateful

Henry Ainley

I'm in fine fettle!

and written along the left hand edge -

Love to all my pals as and when you see them

Please e-mail me with any questions - I will happily scan the letter in or photocopy if anyone would like to see the item.

Thanks for looking!