Alt, Rudolf von

a humorous birthday greeting to his granddaughter Hanni Fichtner (in Atzgersdorf, near Vienna), asking her to remember her poor old grandfather in his distressed trousers, noting that nowadays they are not as bad as they once were in Lundenburg, jokingly referring to the pestering behaviour of his aunt Louise, who takes extraordinary pleasure in the smart young officers, while he is interested only in old houses

...zur Erinnerung schicke ich Dir dieses kleine Stückel Geld, mögest Du dabei auch an Deinen Dich innigst liebenden Großvater gedenken...arm, den er muß wirklich immer mit der zerrissenen Hose herumgehen, zwar ist sie es nicht so wie damals in Lundenburg, sondern nur so: [with a drawing of the distressed trousers mentioned]...



4 pages, 8vo, autograph envelope, Marburg, 11 July 1885, a few tiny stains

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."