Between the Covers

Softcover. A collection of 11 unpublished playscripts by Henry Dingley Coolidge (1858-1922). The scripts are all individually bradbound in wrappers and laid into a tan cloth chemise. All are near fine with some wear at the extremities and a bit of toning, in a near fine lightly rubbed chemise. Coolidge, a direct descendant of *Mayflower* pilgrim William White, served as clerk for the Massachusetts Senate for 33 years. His interest in literary pursuits was well known, and noted in a senate resolution upon his sudden death in 1922, but during his lifetime he published just two books: *Manual for the Use of the General Court* and *Dead Reckoning: A Farce*. The one-act playscripts offered here are unpublished and were preserved by Coolidge's son, whose name and address are written on a paper label on the front pastedown of the chemise along with a list of titles. Though most of the plays are straightforward dramas and comedies, several venture into the supernatural, such as: *Mary, Be You a Witch?*, based on the Salem witch trails; *Haunted?*, a story on spiritual possession that ends tragically; and *The House of Fearsome Peril*, about a homicidal hypnotist. An interesting collection of unpublished plays from the turn of the century. Further details available upon request.

Item #352609