SOLZHENITSYN, Alexander (1918-2008). An archive of correspondence to Edward Bennett Williams, including letters regarding a luncheon with President Ronald Reagan.

Comprising 6 typed letters signed and one autograph letter signed, and 3 carbon copies, 1977-1988, to American lawyer Edward Bennett Williams (1920-1988), regarding legal matters and a luncheon with Ronald Reagan.

In a pair of letters from May 1982, Solzhenitsyn shares his thoughts about his invitation to dine at the White House with other Soviet dissidents. Solzhenitsyn had attempted a meeting with Gerald Ford in 1975, which Ford refused. Reagan decided to set up a meeting, but was advised that it should not be a private meeting so as not to provoke the leaders of the Soviet Union. Desiring a personal meeting, Solzhenitsyn planned to turn down the offer, but his intention was leaked to the press before he even received an invitation.

Solzhenitsyn reached out to Edward Bennett Williams, who had access to the White House, to ask him to mediate on their behalf. Ultimately, Solzhenitsyn did not attend. He writes Williams on 3 May 1982: "Now we would like to ask you, if you will have such an opportunity, to explain to the President even before May 11 how his advisers have distorted his noble intentions into a foolish and even insulting joke." He writes again on 12 May, "I was sufficiently humiliated." A carbon copy of his letter to the President is included.

Solzhenitsyn, Russian novelist and Soviet Dissident, corresponds with his lawyer. In a letter of 26 February 1977, he asks Williams to serve as Russian poet and activist Aleksandr Ginzburg. He coordinates his Will in a letter of 2 October 1981.

In an ALS, 15 August 1988, Solzhenitsyn sends his condolences to Williams widow.

Property from the Estate of Agnes Neill Williams, Chevy Chase, Maryland