The Smiths: a handwritten and signed two-page letter from Morrissey, to Mike Hinc, live booking agent at All Trade Booking, for both the Smiths and Morrissey, undated, but believed to be late 1984, discussing planned UK tour dates in early 1985.

It reads 'Dear Mike, I appreciate the letter and list of dates. As usual, the bickering over various dates enhances my reputation for stubbornness. In your letter you remark on my need to play Manchester on the 17th. All that was ever important to me was that Manchester be the third tour date, and when that exactly fell was immaterial. The very first request I made to you at our meeting was that Manchester be the third date. Naturally, it emerges as the 21st date...

Provenance:

From the personal collection of the late Mike Hinc, former booking agent at Rough Trade for Morrissey, The Smiths and others. The lot forms part of an extensive archive of related items on this sale, consigned by the family of Mike Hinc.

I agree that Preston is a great venue, but we must stop SOMEWHERE. £5000 from UEA [University of East Anglia] is exciting, but WE MUST STOP SOMEWHERE.

I beg you to consider all group and crew needs on this tour, as faith in ATB from all quarters is not high. I hope this tour will quash peoples doubts and that team spirit wins through. Lack of drum rostrum will mean no gig. Lack of space for John F's creativity will mean no gig.

Our requirements are laughably humble. I acknowledge Scott as the Smiths representative, but on critically serious matters, I do not need a spokesperson. Let's meet in Jan, before which I hope you will send me financial details (address on envelope, I abscond from Kensington tomorrow.) Very best, Morrissey.'