Letter 212a

The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien
Letter 212a
Recipient	Marjorie Incledon
Date	23 October 1958
Subject(s)	Renovations of his Headington home

Letter 212a is a letter written by J.R.R. Tolkien and published in The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien: Revised and Expanded edition.

Summary

In this letter to Marjorie Incledon Tolkien discusses his decision not to move after retirement, which will require alterations to the house to accommodate Edith's reduced mobility. He describes the frustrating experience with unreliable contractors, which left their house in chaos upon their return from a trip to Ireland. Despite employing a surveyor, the work was delayed, leaving them without basic amenities. The stress of the situation negatively impacted Edith's health, undoing the benefits of her recent rest in Bournemouth.

Tolkien also reflects on the passing of several older friends, including Mrs. Wright, the widow of his mentor, Professor Joseph Wright. He mentions the emotional toll of these losses and his responsibilities as the trustee and executor of the Wright estate. Despite these challenges, Tolkien shares that he has recovered from a bout of lumbago, crediting Irish whiskey for his quick recovery. He concludes with well-wishes for Incledon's health and a light-hearted note on his own improved condition.