June 25, 1980. A response by Le Carre to an apparent letter of support from a reader, in which he shares news of the upcoming BBC series "we are making" of "Smiley's People," and expresses his pleasure that Sir Alec Guinness will once again play Smiley. He also expresses hope that at least one of his sons chooses a writing career, "but it's a hard life, believe it or not, and letters like yours make it a lot easier!" Signed in full, as John Le Carre. Offered here with a photo of Alec Guinness as Smiley, inscribed by Guinness, albeit to another recipient, in 1982. The letter is folded in eighths; near fine. [#033024] SOLD