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[ANNE (1665–1714), Queen of Great Britain and Ireland]. Order of the Privy Council signed by its President, Lord Mulgrave, folio, at the Council Chamber of St James, 5th August 1714, with embossed wafer seal, and docketed on the reverse of the integral blank. Ordering the arrangements for the funeral of the Queen "That on the day of Her late Majesty's Funerall Directions be given for Three Regiments of Foot Guards ...... to line the way from the Gate-house to Westminster Abby, likewise in the Abby and in the Passages of the Sanctuary ....... and Her Majesty's body proceed by Buckingham House to the Abby to line the streets on both sides ........ and His Grace the Duke of Ormond Captain Generl of His Majs Forces is desired to give the necessary directions herein". Reverse of integral blank browned, and with remains of mounting hinges on one edge.

Queen Anne died on the morning of 1st August 1714 at Kensington Palace. Immediately afterwards, the Privy Council assembled at Kensington, where the regency nominations of the new king were opened, the regency council established, and the lords justices sworn in. George I was proclaimed king that afternoon. Anne's funeral was postponed 'by reason the ladies could not get their clothes ready', and finally took place on 23rd August.

ANSTED, David Thomas (1814-1880), geologist. Autograph letter signed to Mr [Samuel Carter] Hall, 2 sides plus integral blank, 8vo, Athenaeum Club, Pall Mall, 22 April 1879. Regarding writing various items for publication, and adding that “I will certainly do what I can for in regard to the Moore publication & memorial”.

Ansted was a prolific author whose works included elementary texts on geology, earth history, and physical geography, books on water supply and gold prospecting, local studies, and travel books. His correspondent is almost certainly the journal editor and writer, Samuel Carter Hall (1800–1889).

Arnold, Thomas (1795–1842), headmaster and historian. Autograph letter signed to Captain Beaufort R.N., 3 sides, 4to, Rugby March 19th 1830. Thanking Beaufort for sending drawings of the coast of Megara, and discussing at length locations in ancient Greece, attempting to reconcile descriptions of classical authors with modern geography. Mounted on an old album page, the top corner of the second leaf cut away, removing about 4 words, and one tear repaired to the rear.

Arnold had a lifelong passion for ancient history, and Francis Beaufort (naval officer and hydrographer, 1774–1857), took a practical interest in ancient geography. Beaufort's "Karamania, or, A brief description of the south coast of Asia minor, and of the remains of antiquity" published in 1817, demonstrate his skills as a surveyor and explorer, together with his interest in ancient history. The letter was written at the beginning of Arnold's position as headmaster of Rugby School, and the commencement of Beaufort's post as hydrographer of the Navy. For both men, these positions proved the most important in their careers.

BARRY, Sir Charles (1795–1860), architect. Autograph letter signed to Mr Burgon, 3 sides, 8vo, Westminster 2nd July 1847. Thanking him for his present and poems: "thank you for your little collection of poems which I have read with much interest, and to assure you that I am much gratified & flattered by your encomium upon my great work, which I rejoice to find has afforded you so much pleasure & satisfaction". Narrow strip of paper adhering to back edge indicating removal from an album page.

Barry was responsible for many private and public commissions, and is best known for his work on the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after their destruction by fire in 1834. The House of Lords was completed in 1847 and the House of Commons finished in 1852, but the huge project was a considerable strain for him. The recipient of his letter is probably John William Burgon (1813-1888), biblical scholar, and later dean of Chichester. Burgon won the Oxford University Newdigate prize in 1845 for a poem, and his collected poems were published in 1885.

BEDLAM HOSPITAL. Contemporary copy of a Petition of Andrew Bauld merchant in Arbroath "and one of His Majesty's Messengers for Scotland", to Sir William Fettes, Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, folio, 4 sides, Bedlam 19th November 1805. "your petitioner came over here on business, in the beginning of October last ...... my Landlord swindled me out of every article of Property that I had about me ........ and afterwards thrust me out of his house upon the Street without either a hatt on my head or shoes on my feet. In this Situation I was arrested by some men belonging the police and by them carried to the Prison and thrown into a Dungeon which I found out to be the necessary house the smell of which was enough to destroy any human ......... I was then .... brought before a man of the name of Mr. Medcalf who ordered my pockitts to be searched when my pockitt book containing my Papers was taken from me. I was then put down in a dark hole below below ground and afterwards Loaded with irons and fettered with ropes in a manner too shocking to rilate, some bread and water was allowed me which was placed on an old Guard bed but how was I to reach it fetterd in this situation I had some times to creep upon my belly and other times upon my back for neer an hour before I could reach the place where my bread & water was placd ........ I was servd in this manner for five days then my irons were knocked off I was then dragged ...... through one street and then an other untill I came where I now am and as soon as my human keeper had learned that I was Sound in Mind he has indulged me in every respect with humanity as far as the rules of the House would permitt ...... Lett me be brought to your Lordships barr & heard & punished accordingly as I diserve to this I am willing & ready to submitt".

Sir William Fettes, baronet (1750–1836), was in 1805 elected for a second time as Lord Provost of Edinburgh, and as such was an influential figure for a fellow Scotsman to consider Bauld's appeal. The Edinburgh Bedlam was attached to the Edinburgh Charity Workhouse behind modern-day Teviot Place.

BLACKLOCK, Thomas (1721–1791), poet and writer. Autograph letter signed to the Earl of Buchan, 1 side, docketed on the reverse, 4to, Chapel Street. April 27 1785. Regarding the translation of a manuscript "Your Lordship will doubtless be surprised to have heard nothing of the Deserter til now, but strange as the procrastination may seem, its causes were equally inevitable and irrestible. A few days had only elapsed since its return from Prof. Stewart, nor has he yet communicated his sentiments of the translation. I could have wished to revise it myself for as it is the first draft with all its imperfections on its head. I am not certain whether in some place it may not be illegible."

Blacklock (who lost his sight owing to smallpox in infancy) is writing to David Erskine, eleventh earl of Buchan (1742–1829), antiquary and political reformer, who retired from politics in 1780, taking up a special interest in Scottish antiquarianism. The manuscript he refers to had been sent to Dugald Stewart (who had just obtained the chair of moral philosophy at the University of Edinburgh) whose comments he was awaiting. The identification of the manuscript - "the Deserter" is uncertain. A ballet Le déserteur was written and staged in France in 1785, translations of which were printed in London the same year.

BRITTON, John (1771–1857), antiquary and topographer. Autograph letter signed to D. Maclise R.A., 1 side, with integral blank, 8vo, October 29^th 1853. Regarding sketches of Stonehenge: "My friend McKewan having made some clever sketches of Stone Henge I send them for your inspection and hope they will afford you some amusement. When you have looked them over, may I beg the favour of you to send them to our mutual friend, Roberts with the accompanying form". Integral blank with pencil notes about Britton, with the corners damaged by removal from an album. The letter comes with a cut down engraving of Britton from the Universal Magazine, 1820.

Britton's correspondent is Daniel Maclise (1806- 1870), a talented painter of portraits and history painting, and was a pioneer in conducting extensive research for his historical subjects. David Hall McKewan (1816–1873), was a watercolour painter, who became a full member of the New Watercolour Society in 1850. Britton campaigned vigorously for governmental protection of ancient monuments in his later years.

BRYANT, Jacob (bap. 1717, d. 1804), antiquary and classical scholar. Autograph letter signed to Jacob Bryant, 3 sides, with address panel with armorial wax seal and interesting postal franks (inc. Windsor mileage handstamp), 4to, Windsor, 23 August 1804. Commenting upon his nephew’s plans and prospects; giving news of (royal) neighbours and friends; and reflecting upon his advanced years: “I grow weaker continually, so that I am not able to dine out, when requested by my noble neighbours …….. It was not in my power to attend the celebrity in my neihbourhood at the Elections which I never before neglected for sixty years ……. I must now quit the stage, which I shall do with proper gratitude, and without any apprehension or reluctance.” Piece of paper torn away by seal (not affecting text), and fold repaired (where removed from an album?).

Following work as a private tutor, Bryant was appointed in 1756 secretary to Charles Spencer, third duke of Marlborough, accompanying him to Germany in 1758, where the duke died suddenly. On his return to England, the Marlborough family generously provided Bryant with a sizeable income, living quarters at Blenheim, and use of their famous library. Having attained financial independence, Bryant devoted the rest of his long life to arcane researches, book collecting, and authorship. In his later years Bryant lived at Cypenham in Farnham Royal, near Windsor, where George III often visited him for the sake of his conversation, which was said to be pleasing, instructive, and slyly humorous. Some eleven weeks after writing this letter, Bryant injured a leg while reaching for a book in his library, developed an unstoppable infection, and died of gangrene on 14 November 1804. ODNB

BUCKLAND, William (1784–1856), geologist and dean of Westminster. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides plus integral blank leaf, 8vo, Oxford, 28 Oct 1843. Thanking his correspondent for “your father’s excellent address to the Agricultural Society of Arbermarle which I have read with great interest and aprobation” and in a post-script mentioning that “Sir Robert Peel would be gratified by the perusal of this address and if you are not sufficiently acquainted with him I would gladly forward to him a copy if you would like to send me one for this purpose.” Thin paper, with heavy handwriting showing through. Traces of mounting on edge of blank leaf.

Buckland was appointed to the new readership in geology in Oxford University 1818, became an enormously popular lecturer, and went on to specialise in the investigation of fossil cave faunas. In 1845 he was appointed with the help of his patron, Sir Robert Peel, to the vacant deanery of Westminster, but continued to travel to Oxford to deliver his courses on geology. It should be possible to identify his correspondent through research into the Agricultural Society of Arbermarle's publications.

BUCKLAND, William (1784–1856), geologist and dean of Westminster. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 3 sides, 8vo, Oxford, 14 Jany. [no year, but probably 1844], requesting that some specimens sent with the letter be analysed for traces of phosphorous, adding "I have sent duplicates to Owen to look out for infusoria & foraminifera. Can you tell me if there be generally phosphorous in seaweeds and medusae? Have you ever looked for phosphorous in any of the English green sands?" In a postscript he adds "Next Wed. eve. Dr Daubeny has a paper at the Geol Soc London on the Spanish Apatite. He finds it in the same proportion of flourine as in Bones ........ I am sure the -------- mineral is of stalagmitic origin - tho found as it is said in Beds". Letter with creases, plus adhering paper from removal from an album on the reverse, and a small piece missing at the top of the blank edge of leaf two.

The paper to be read by Daubeny which Buckland alludes to was "On the Occurrence of Phosphorite in Estremadura" published (with co-author Capt. Widdrington) in the Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society; in 1845, giving us a terminus ante quem date for the letter. Charles Daubeny (1795–1867) attended Buckland's geology lectures in his youth, and went on to occupy both the chair of chemistry and the chair of botany at Oxford. By 1845 Buckland was becoming dissatisfied with the academic scene in Oxford, which he perceived as hostile to science, and accepted appointment as dean of Westminster. Initially he continued to travel to Oxford to deliver his courses on geology. ODNB

Churchill, Charles (1656–1714), army officer. Autograph letter signed to Mr. Cardinole at The Hague, 1 side with integral address panel on second leaf (cut down), 8vo, London 4^th December 1704. Regarding military matters: "My Ld. Cutts has been so kinde as to give Cha. a Company in his Reg. an I in return have given Captn Eton that was his Aide Campe my Grenadiers, for I desire his Commission may be find., an Lloyd’s for the Guards, an my Ld. Dukes, for his service, with my duty to my Broth". Small splits along fold.

From 1704 until 1708 Churchill was in command of the British infantry and artillery under his brother the Duke of Marlborough. This letter was written a few months after he served at the battle of Blenheim. In the following years the campaign moved into Flanders, where Churchill captured Brussels (becoming Governor in 1706) and led the siege of Dendermonde.

CLARK, Elizabeth (chr.1774). Autograph letter signed to James Clark, on board the Worcester, East Indiaman, St Helena, 2 sides folio with integral blank with address panel, Portsmouth, March 17, 1798. A charming long letter from Clark’s wife, with news from home. “I was brought to bed With a fine Girl the wensday as you saild The Saterday we are booth Harty.. I have had Her Cristned Elizea Marchall Clark as you Deseired me”…….. “Willm the Capins Steward with all Most all the young men you knew in The Ceaser have left her Charle Price means to run away – Hardy is Marred”…….. “Mr. Scott have left the Adrimel come to Portsth He tryd in the River to get a Indeaman but He was Engaged .. he said he wishd he had knowd your Mind he woud went out with you .. he is trying to get Stward of a Ship here” …….. “when you write wich I hope My Dr Clark will Be soon Pray lett me know if I am to have The Child Innochulected or not I don’t Much approve of it myself”……… and in a post-script “Pray don’t gitt drunk”.

Elizabeth was born in Portsmouth in 1774, the daughter of Stephen and Sarah Clungeon, and married James Clark at Alverstone, Hampshire, on 19^th October 1795. James Clark’s ship the Worcester, was the ship in which Mungo Park (the explorer) made his first voyage, in 1793, to Sumatra, as assistant surgeon. Elizabeth’s mention of whether to have their daughter inoculated is interesting - inoculation was widely practiced in the late 18^th century to minimise smallpox infection, with a mortality rate of about 1 in 200. Edward Jenner, the pioneer of smallpox vaccination, performed the first documented cowpox inoculation on 14 May 1796, and conducted more vaccinations in March–April 1798, which he held was a safe alternative, producing lifelong immunity to smallpox.

CLARKE, Edward Daniel (1769–1822), antiquary and mineralogist. Two autograph letters signed to James Sowerby:

1. Autograph letter signed to Mr Sowerby care of R. Taylor & Co., Printers, Black Horse Court, Fleet Street, London, 4to 3 sides, Cambridge, with address panel bearing a red postmark dated November 19 1804, and docketed. Expressing satisfaction at seeing the completion of the first volume of Sowerby's British Mineralogy : "I ...... await anxiously for the next Number, that I may have it bound & examine it more easily. There is no one of your subscribers who has more interest in its welfare that I have, & I will make a few remarks that strike me................ I regret very much, & told you so in the beginning that on a subject of such importance as Mineralogy, you have confined the work to British specimens; because the introduction of exotics would have added few to the collection, & you would have had better examples. Many important facts have escaped your notice on this account such as the cristallization of substances, which were in themselves the result of imperfect cristallization. This fact Count Bournon never would acknowledge". Clarke goes on to offer to lend Sowerby various minerals that might usefully illustrate various crystallographic features, which he describes in some detail. The paper has light brown staining and a small portion has torn off with the seal affecting one word and

2. Autograph letter signed to J.Sowerby Esqr. No. 2 Mead Place, Lambeth, 4to 3 sides, Cambridge, May 4 1821, with address panel bearing a red postmark and Cambridge mark, acknowledging receipt of a parcel from Sowerby, saying he has "forwarded to Professor Sedgewicke the Number of the Mineral Conchology as directed" and thanking him "For the magnificent specimens which you have sent to my Lectures of the Tirie Marble ...............I shall make a public acknowledgement of your contribution to the Collection at my next lecture on Tuesday. But you have sent a specimen of the white Marble. Pray answer me by return of post, was that specimen also from Tirie; or was it from Glen Tilt, near the Duke of Athol’s seat? In your answer also tell me where the small curious Carbonate of Lime crystals came from?". He closes in referring to numbers of The Mineral Conchology - "you may send them as suits your convenience best – monthly or yearly; and believe me that by the sacrifice of this single number to the University Library you will find that you will sell many copies which would not otherwise be called for. The beautiful Plates you have sent I shall exhibit as Specimens of the Work both at my Lectures and in the Public Library". Small piece of paper removed from one edge by the seal.

Clarke began collecting minerals shortly after graduating from Cambridge, and toured widely on the continent from 1792 to 1802 amassing a significant collection of minerals and antiquities. In 1803 he was awarded the degree of LLD by the University of Cambridge, and in 1805 he was appointed senior tutor of Jesus College, although he resigned from this post in 1806 upon his marriage. In 1808 he was appointed as the first professor of mineralogy at Cambridge, and in 1817 was elected as the University's librarian.

His correspondent was the natural history artist, publisher, and collector James Sowerby (1757–1822), who adopted a special interest in geology, producing three exceptionally finely illustrated part publications British Mineralogy (1802–17), Exotic Mineralogy (1811–20) and (commencing) The Mineral Conchology of Great Britain (1812–46). As fine as these part publications were, subscribers were critical and dissatisfied by their irregular appearance, incompleteness, and errors.(ODNB).

CODRINGTON, Sir William John (1804–1884), army officer. Autograph letter signed to Lt. Col. Neale, 4 sides, 8vo, 110 Eton Square, SW. 5^th April 1857. Providing a reference for his fellow officer who served in the Crimea : "it gives me much pleasure to remember the zeal and activity with which we carried out the duties of your position at Varna .........Whilst I was Commander of the Forces from November 1855 the main communications were carried on with Constantinople: but important duty was also continued by the Commissariat, the electric telegraph and other establishments by means of Varna, and it was with pleasure that I heard of the facilities and assistance which you have always afforded to the Department of the army which were there under my orders." On blue paper, with embossed address and crest. A few marks on the last leaf.

Codrington arrived in Varna on 13 June 1854, and on 1st September took over the 1st brigade of the light division, who he led into battle at the Alma on the 20th. He fought in November at Inckerman, and in 1855 at Sevastopol, becoming commander-in-chief of the campaign. He left the Peninsula on 12 July 1856. On his return to England, Codrington became colonel of the 54th foot on 11 August 1856 and Liberal MP for Greenwich in 1857.

COLLINGWOOD, Cuthbert, Baron Collingwood (1748–1810), naval officer. Three sacrament certificates, printed on parchment with manuscript inserts and autograph signatures as follows:

1. Certifying Edward Collingwood received the Sacrament the 4th March 1787, signed by the ministers of the Parish & Parish Church, the Churchwardens, and with the autograph witness signatures of Cuthbert Collingwood and Thomas Davidson.

2. Certifying Thomas Davidson received the Sacrament the 4th March 1787, signed by the ministers of the Parish & Parish Church, the Churchwardens, and with the autograph witness signatures of Cuthbert Collingwood and Edward Collingwood.

3. Certifying John Davidson received the Sacrament the 3rd June 1787, signed by the minister of the Parish & Parish Church, the Churchwardens, and with the autograph witness signatures of William Harrison Junr and William Pringle.

All about 6 x 10 inches, rather grubby, but well preserved.

From 1783 to 1786 Collingwood commanded HMS Mediator in the West Indies, where he and Nelson were engaged in preventing the Americans conducting trade. In July 1786 the Mediator returned home and Collingwood spent four years in Northumberland, ‘making my acquaintance with my own family, to whom I had hitherto been as it were a stranger’.

In the certificates we can also identify Edward Collingwood of Dissington & Chirton (d.1806), who shared a great great grandfather with Cuthbert Collingwood. These certificates were required for people who held civil or military office, and confirmed that they had received the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. They had to be submitted to the Quarter Sessions within 6 months of taking office.

Cuthbert Collingwood went on to play an important role during the Napoleonic Wars, and is famous for his part in Trafalgar, where he was the first to be engaged with the enemy.

CAPTAIN COLLINGWOOD'S COMPANY. A small leather bound notebook 3.5 x 5 inches, comprising 26 sides of MS notes (some only a few lines) interleaved with blotting paper, headed Capt Collingwood's Company. Containing a muster roll giving the full names of 64 men, with ranks and status, plus accounts for recruitment, provisions, clothing etc, the entries dated between February and November 1760 (one side headed Ship Account with dates of 1762 and 1763), and with locations mentioned including Alnwick and Berwick [Northumberland]. One particularly interesting entry reads "Capt Dixon bets Capt Reed four dozen of claret and 20 guineas that Mr Thos. Riddell of Swinburn is not married to Miss Selby of Yardhill in two years from the Date yr of 29 April 1760".

The Collingwoods were an ancient Northumberland family, whose most famous member was Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood of Trafalgar fame. Captain Collingwood of this unit has not been identified, but his Company is likely to have been a division of the 5th Regiment of Foot (later the Northumberland Fusiliers). Thomas Riddell (d1777) of Swinburne Castle who is the subject of the bet, in fact married Elizabeth Margaret Whittington of Felton Park in August 1760. The 20 guinea bet was in the order of a month's pay for an army captain.

COMBE, George (1788–1858), phrenologist. Autograph letter signed to Dr James Browne, Mercury Office, 2 sides plus integral blank with address panel and seal, 8vo, Edinburgh, 4th February 1828, thanking him for his note, and saying that his own "was written in ignorance of the nature of Sir Wm Hmilton’s letter which appeared in this day’s mercury" and having read it "I most heartily rejoice that he has rendered further correspondence on my part unnecessary ....... I am not surprised at your readers being tired of the discussion, for it had long ago lost all interest both to Dr. Spurzheim & myself; & we wrote purely in defence." Paper corner torn away by wax seal on integral blank.

George Combe became a lawyer, but took up an interest in phrenology, attended a dissection of the brain by Caspar Spurzheim in 1816, and subsequently published and lectured on phrenology widely in the 1820s. His adversary, Sir William Stirling Hamilton (1788–1856), an advocate at the Edinburgh bar, spent much of his spare time engaged in anatomical research in efforts to discredit phrenology and Combe's views. Combe's correspondent Dr James Browne (1793–1841), having become an advocate, but failing to obtain a practice, turned to a literary career, and in 1827 became editor of the Caledonian Mercury.

JAMES CURRIE TO ERASMUS DARWIN ON PERSPIRATION

CURRIE, James (1756–1805), physician and author. Autograph letter signed to Dr Darwin, Derby, 3 sides with post-script on address panel, Liverpool, November 1796, regarding a letter from a Mrs Riddell, and with a long discussion on perspiration. In opening this discussion he writes "In regard to my critique on your account of the matter of perspiration (E.R. July p22) you will … see that I agree with you in thinking that the matter of perspiration is not excrementitious , as Hoffman supposed: that I assent also to your opinion that it serves to keep the skin moist etc., but that “it does not seem to us, that he (Dr. Dee) has enumerated all, or perhaps the principal affects of perspiration” – This has a -?- to an opinion I have for some time entertained on the principal affect of perspiration, founded partly on reasoning, partly on experiment; viz, that this process serves in a great measure to regulate the animal heat. That there is some animal function which performs this office is evident; I think it is perspiration". Currie goes on to describe detailed observations and experiments relating to perspiration and body heat, concluding "This is my notion, supported I think by sound expts of my own, in resting on a fair basis of facts reasonings & analysis. I say no more at present; but shall esteem myself particularly obliged by your considering the point in telling me what you see objectionable. I wish this the more because, I shall hazard some speculation on the subject in public. What I have said will explain to you why I supposed you had enumerated some but not all of the affects of perspiration". A fine and important letter.

James Currie FRS was at this time physician to the Liverpool Infirmary, and an important figure in the abolition of the slave trade. His most important medical work was Medical reports, on the effects of water, cold and warm, as a remedy in fever and other diseases first published in 1797. He borrowed the idea of treating fevers with cool baths from William Wright, but supported it with many clinical experiments and observations, including simultaneous observations of the pulse rate and temperature of fever patients (ODNB).

His correspondent Dr Erasmus Erasmus (1731–1802) was widely respected as a physician and was a great innovator in medical treatment. He maintained a wide circle of correspondents including Currie. This letter is part of an important correspondence between Currie and Darwin on the role of perspiration in fever, in which Darwin helped move Currie towards the conclusion that it caused the patient’s temperature to fall. This letter dates to a pivotal time in the debate on the subject.

DAVIS, St. George Clarence Spurling (1827-1852) Assistant Engineer, Royal Navy. Manuscript journal, 101 sides of close written entries, with occasional small ink drawings, elongated half calf binding with marbled boards, 220 x 150 mm, inscribed on the inner board "St George C.S. Davis Lisbon March 1851", with entries from 6th April 1851 to 15th May 1852. Enclosed also is a 4to sheet of paper with cricket scores.

Davis begins his journal in the middle of a mutiny off Portugal, "they provided themselves with cannister shot & other missiles, and as soon as the light was put out at one bell, commenced a repulse row, pelting the Officers who endeavoured to stop it, broke the Corporal's chest with a 32lb or 10 inch shot ......... Marines were then placed to guard all the hatchways the well affected & wideawake having made their escape & the 1st Lieut & other officers went down & took all the names on the lower deck. (The Capt. had read the article of War on mutinous assemblies etc. & the provision for reasonable complaint etc. in the afternoon)" and the next day 7th April "Capts. Smart of Indefatigable & Davies of Leander ...... went through the charges contained in two annoymous letters which had been written to the Captain", listing eight complaints relating to longs hours, limited rest and leave, abuse etc. Further disturbances occurred on the 7th April, and on the 8th "3 men with a boy were brought up - 2 of them were flogged - They were to have had 3 dozen each; but one who had previous good character was let off with 2. A Petty Officer who was detected in the first outbreak was disrated & put in the afterguard."

Davis and his ship return to Lisbon, where life returns to a mixture of work and leisure. The Royal Navy vessels based at Lisbon are engaged in regular sea trials, and Davis takes a special interest in these as an engineer. He records the arrival and departure of various vessels, eg "Retribution ..... left for England taking Young & also the body of Captain Snow who shot himself the day before in his cabin". Davis's leisure time is taken up with frequent games of cricket - the results of one match, between the members of Phaeton & Arrogant and Squadron & Club, are recorded in detail on an enclosed folded 4to sheet dated 22 April 1851. He makes several comments when out and about in Lisbon - "...omitted to mention yesterday having seen the Queen for the first time. She was driving in an open barouche. She is immensely fat & not at all good humoured looking", and describes at length visits to churches, and gives a long description of a tobacco factory.

On 15th June Davis's ship is ordered "to go England to convey the Prince of Saxe Coburg & Gotha to his father's bedside as he was dying" (Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, consort king of Portugal and Algarves, whose father Ferdinand Georg August of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha died at Vienna, 27 August 1851). During the journey a gunner is arrested "by way of easing his spleen" after verbally abusing another officer. Arriving at Portsmouth, Davis visits friends and family, locally and in London. In August he makes at least four trips to the Crystal Palace to see the Exhibition "I was much pleased with the building, and its contents which answered my expectation in every way, except that I thought it would be about 20 feet higher. Saw Berthon's boat and log" (Davis is in contact with Berthon elsewhere in his journal). On his return to Portsmouth, he records on the 27th August "The Yankee Yacht "America" having touched the ground at Cowes came into dock, and exhibited a bottom formed on the principle of hollow lines to admiration. Hundreds of people came to see her, and went through the cabins - which are very handsomely fitted - she had a piece of false keel replaced ....".

Davis and his ship return to Lisbon on 3rd October, and on the 27th receive news "by the Montrose from Gibraltar of some pirates having beaten off the James ..... having wounded the Lieut.Commander & second master and 9 men", as a result of which his ship and Arethusa set out to investigate. They visit Tangier and Gibraltar, but find "the pirate story appears to be all smoke". Back in Lisbon, on December 4th "the yacht America arrived from England", and on the 26th Davis visits her and meets her owner Lord de Blaquicre "to get permission to measure her, in which however I was unsuccessful. He has been very ill with small pox, but is now convalescent. I found him a gentlemanly man, with a dash of the fast man and he refused my request in a very polite manner."

On the 4th February Davis 1852 sails to Cork, and by 1st March an "Order came to us to go to Plymouth to be paid down. This is generally considered to portend going to a foreign station." At Plymouth, Davis meets up with other friends, in particular Lady Hillyer and her family, Henry (a fellow junior Navy officer), Julia and Adele, of Tor House. In April his ship prepares to take Sir Charles Hotham to Buenos Aires, but he instead goes in the Vixen. Davis spends time in Plymouth visiting vessels in dock, including Leander, Valorous and Sans Pareil, and takes leave to visit friends and family in London. He receives orders on 12th May that his ship is to go to sea, and departs Plymouth Sound on the 14th "at 3.55 pm under steam ..... when ... a man fell overboard from mainyard ..... lowered boats but too late. No one jumped over though many had the chance".

St George Clarence Spurling Davis was born 28th March 1827 at Holyhead, Anglesey, Wales, the son of George Davies and his wife Isabella. He attended King William's College, Castletown, Isle of Man, leaving May 31st, 1840. Davis mentions having not seen Julia Hillyer since 1846 when on the Bulldog, so he had evidently entered the Navy by this date. His friends the Hillyers, are the family of Sir James Hillyer RN, his wife Lady Mary Hillyer, and their children, Mary, Henry, Julia and Adele. Captain (later Sir) James Hillyer, was one of Nelson's protégés, who "at twenty-four years of age ...... I made him a Lieutenant for his bravery". Davis's encounter with the yacht America is interesting - five days before he first saw her, she had won the 100-guinea cup (afterwards, the America's Cup), and five days later she had been sold to Lord John de Blaquicre, who he meets later, in December. Another interesting connection is with Edward Lyon Berthon, who famously invented a collapsible boat, and a small gauge for measuring the speed of ships, commonly called ‘Berthon's log’, both of which Davis sees at the 1851 Great Exhibition.

The ship on which Davis is serving 1851-52 is HMS Dauntless, a 31-gun screw frigate, launched from Portsmouth January 5th.1847, commanded by Captain Edward Pellew Halstead. Davis's analysis in March 1852 that being ordered to Plymouth "is generally considered to portend going to a foreign station" is rather chilling, as Dauntless was sent to the West Indies, and on the 2nd December 1852 he died of yellow fever at Barbados. In all, 72 men of HMS Dauntless died of fever, more than one-quarter of the entire ship’s company, including several friends mentioned in the journal.

DIXON, Alex, army officer. Two 4to letters signed by Dixon as Deputy Adjutant General at Spanish Town [Jamaica], one to the Quarter Master W. Burton, 1 side, dated 10 May 1784, "to deliver to Mr. White Acting Ensign in the 14^th Regt. Rations of Provisions from 26, Octr 1783 to 30 April 1784", and the other to William Dunlop Esq., 2 sides plus docket on integral blank, dated 21 June 1784, enclosing (not present) "a Return of one Serjeant two Corporals, one Drummer and twenty four Privates and one Woman of the Second Battalion of the late Duke of Cumberland’s Regiment, who are to have a passage to Halifax; Captain Bannatyne of the Brig Swift has agreed to take them at the rate of five Pounds Currency for Each of the Men", and giving directions for their rations to be put on board. The docket tells us that the discharged men embarked for Halifax on 23rd June.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, received a large number of emigrants and refugees in the early 1780s, at the close of the American Revolutionary war. "Loyalists" units (supporters the British cause) from the American south, included the Duke of Cumberland's Regiment. The influx of people into Nova Scotia was so great, that it led the British in 1784 to establish the separate colonies of New Brunswick and Cape Breton.

DIXON, John (1796-1865), railway engineer. Autograph letter signed to Z. Colburn Esq., 6 sides, 4to, Darlington, February 28^th 1863. Discussing at length various steam engine tests and experiments : "I have had several experiments carefully made by our powerful modern engines used in the Mineral Department upon very severe gradients viz 1 in 44 and 1 in 64 at speeds from 12 to 30 miles and hour with loads varying accordingly and had the coke and water carefully noted ...........rather lacking confidence in myself and considering disgression to be the better part of valour I have concluded that before giving my labours to the public to be hacked and mauled I would take the liberty of confidentially consulting you upon one or two of the experiments and calculations based upon them." Ending on a light note “At my advanced age viz 66 it does not suit me to ride on the buffers nor even the foot board at high speeds but our chief locomotive manager William Bauch a member of your Engineers Society is very ready to carry out my suggestions”.

John Dixon was a pioneer in the development of the Stockton and Darligton Railway. He was born in Cockfield in 1796, and began work as a clerk in the Darligton bank of Jonathan Backhouse, a relation who purchased the Dixon family colliery of Cockfield Fell. He moved to the Stockton and Darligton Railway in the role of clerk, and was made resident assistant engineer upon the arrival of George Stephenson, appointed in 1822 to survey a new line on which to run steam locomotive powered trains. Dixon assisted Stephenson and his son Robert in the creation of the world's first public steam locomotive railway, opened in 1825. He remained Stephenson's second in command until 1845, and afterwards became Engineer-in-Chief to the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Samuel Smiles in his Life of George Stephenson (1875) famously quoted Dixon saying "George Stephenson told me as a young man that railways will supersede almost all other methods of conveyance in this country - when mail-coaches will go by railway, and railroads will become the great highway for the king and all his subjects. I know there are great and almost insurmountable difficulties to be encountered; but what I have said will come to pass as sure as you live."

DYVE ARMORIAL. Manuscript armorial with hand coloured arms of members of the Dyve family of Brampton, Northamptonshire and Bromham, Bedfordshire, dating to the second half of the16th century, comprising 24 sides of MSS and illustrations plus blanks, of which 10 leaves carry fine hand coloured armorial bearings, bound in 19th century quarter calf (21 x 28cm). The illustrated arms and the accompanying genealogical details relate to a lineage from Henry Dyve in the 12th century to John Dyve born 1542. At the end of the book are 4 sides with pasted in armorial sketches and prints of early 18th century date. On 9 sides (mainly on verso) are handwritten accounts bearing dates of 1753 and 1754, and on one leaf receipts signed Thomas Prince. Ex Libris Cecil Humphery-Smith. Click the image for further photographs.

The Dyve family held a barony in Northamptonshire from the time of Henry II. At this time one of the family, Henry Dyve, acquired a seat in the county at Brampton which passed through eight generations. Bromham in Bedfordshire then came into the possession of the Dyve family in the reign of Henry VII, and became the seat of Sir John Dyve (d.1607). The manor remained in the Dyve family until 1645 when the estates of Sir Lewis Dyve, who had been a prominent supporter of King Charles II, were sequestered by Parliament. The armorial records the various holders of the seats at Brampton and Bromham (and others), and the accompanying detailed manuscript entries record a wealth of geneaological information worthy of further research.

DORSET, John Frederick Sackville, third duke of (1745-1799), cricketer, diplomatist and courtier. Autograph letter signed to [William] Eden, 1 side, 4to, London September 7th 1787, complaining of "a most violent Tooth -ach which prevents me doing any thing", saying he plans to spend a few days with Lord Stafford at Trentham, and touching upon diplomatic affairs "I hope to see you at Paris about the end of the month, pray let me know the time precisely that you mean to sett out. I am obliged to send you two letters one concerning M.Basigry [?] and another from an Agent at Rouen[?] M. Savary". Small piece of paper missing on left side affecting one word.

Dorset was appointed ambassador to France from December 1783 until his recall in August 1789, and his correspondent, William Eden, first Baron Auckland (1744–1814), had been chosen by William Pitt in 1785 as an envoy to negotiate various commercial treaties with France. Eden had just concluded a resolution between the British and French East India companies on 30^th August 1787, when he and Dorset had to address the crisis in the United Provinces, where the British were anxious to prevent French armed intervention, in moves to restore the Prince of Orange as Stadholder. On the 27^th October a declaration and counter-declaration were signed and exchanged at Versailles by the Duke of Dorset and William Eden for the British side, committing the parties to discontinue any preparations for war. ODNB

EASTLAKE, Sir Charles Lock (1793–1865), painter and art administrator. Autograph letter signed to George Barker, 2 sides, 8vo, 7 Fitzroy Square, W.,16 June 1862. Discussing the purchase of a picture by Gainsborough. "I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 14^th respecting a portrait of Dr. Schomberg by Gainsborough. From the probability that pictures by English masters will be presented (many having been already so added to the National Collection), there has been a reluctance on the part of the Authorities to make purchases of such works. This does not however amount to an absolute rule; and under any circumstances I would have much pleasure in inspecting the portrait ". Gummed onto an album leaf, together with an albumen photograph by Mrs V.Bartholomew of his wife Lady Elizabeth Eastlake [née Rigby] (1809–1893), journalist and writer on art, together with with a fragment (last page, 16mo) of an autograph letter signed by Lady Eastlake.

A successful artist, and knowledgeable art historian, Eastlake was in later life appointed (with the approval of the Queen, Prince Albert, and the prime minister) first director of the National Gallery, a post he occupied for the rest of his life. In the period 1855-65 the National Gallery purchased 175 pictures - 138 Italian, 30 Dutch and German, and 7 British (ODNB). The portrait of Dr. Ralph Schomberg by Gainsborough, the subject of the letter, was purchased by the National Gallery in 1862 (NG684).

FITZCLARENCE, George Augustus Frederick, first earl of Munster (1794–1842), army officer. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides with integral blank, 8vo, June 16th [1837]. Regarding the ill health of William IV, his father. "I have found the King’s strength greatly diminished & I fear the alarm is not without foundation – I think he has, poor soul - as good as taken leave of us – He has shaken us all in the hand on going into the room – I think him sadly oppressed with weakness and dread". With unsightly browning and damage (repaired) to the right side of the letter. Comes with an engraving "The Population of the British Empire according to the Census", showing population figures in a circular diagram, with the Earl of Munster's portrait in the centre.

George FitzClarence was the eldest of the ten children born to the actress Dorothy Jordan (1761–1816) and the duke of Clarence, later King William IV. He was unhappy in his domestic life, retaining a strong sense of grievance arising from the circumstances of his birth. This was strengthened when the duke of Clarence became king in 1830, and the injustice of his situation led him to press his father for honours. In 1831 he was created earl of Munster, but was not content. At William IV's death on June 20^th, they were still unreconciled, despite various attempts by the king to heal the breach between them. Despite further appointments under Victoria’s reign, Munster shot himself in his library on the night of Sunday 20 March 1842. ODNB

FORSTER, Augustus Caesar (1782-1855). Two autograph letters signed:
1. to his sister Miss Julia C.Forster, Buston, near Alnwick, Northumberland, folded 4to, 2 close written sides (+) with integral address panel bearing postmarks (PLYMOUTHDOCK) and broken seal (leaving two torn sections on the blank leaf), Royal George off Ushant, 3d August 1800. Writing about domestic affairs, clothes and his uniform, and reporting recent events at sea “The 11 thousd Troops that passd the Fleet on the 10^th August on their way to Belleisle have all saild to Lisbon, & last night a Cutter arrivd in the fleet with dispatches but every thing was kept a secret, she parted company the same evening. I make no doubt but you would hear of the Midshipman & a boat’s crew capturing the whole of the ship’s company of Daines after being refused to come on Board; the Lords of the Admiralty have given this Midshipman 3 years of his time which he had to serve, & the Admiral has made him a Lieutt. besides making him a present of a sword worth 100 guineas & giving him his share of prize money … I hope our noble Commander won’t be at a loss how to manoeuvre the French Fleet which we expect out every Hour; we can muster about 38 sail of the Line, I hope you will make room for the Frenchmen that we are sure of overcoming”, and
2. to his father Chas.Fras.Forster Esq, Buston, near Alnwick, Northumberland, folded folio, 3 close written sides (+) with integral address panel bearing postmarks (PLYMOUTHDOCK) and seal (section cut on the blank leaf), Ville-de-Paris Torbay, 8^th Oct. 1800, with an enclosed list of clothing and stationary items. Thanking him for his letter passed on to him by Capt.Grey, and for his compliments regarding his drawings. Forster writes about instruction given on board; about making and recording observations of the sun and Jupiter; about the use of globes and maps; about a box of paints and money received and the list of items he has sent for; about social affairs: “I had the honour of being introduced, by Earl St Vincent to Adml Collingwood who I perceive is a countryman of mine by his asking me how I came from Alnk. which he said was he was very well acquainted with. Since the Fleet came to Torbay, the Adml. has had a number of Ladies on Board, and they had 2 or 3 Royal dances…” and in view reports of the likelihood of peace, about suitable future employment “there are a number of Gentlemen in the service that are going to the West Indies, where they will probably get their time served along with Adl. Duckworth who as a late made Adl. will stay a long time there, and I think if you write to the Earl St Vincent & Capn. Grey to get me in a station before the opportunity is over it would be the means of getting me forward in the service …..”. In a postscript he writes “I am sorry to say that I have got my great coat stole from me by some of the Black Guard fellows in the Rl. George, who had taken the opportunity at the time I left her; but there were more than that they stole things from and things of more consequence than mine”. A long and interesting letter from this midshipman.

Augustus Caesar Forster (1782-1855) was the son of Charles Francis Forster and Elizabeth Gleghorn, whose direct paternal ancestry is recorded back to Richard Forester in the 11^th century. He married Elizabeth Jeffries in 1805 at Portsea, Hampshire, and by the 1840s had inherited the family estate at Campville, Northumberland.

HMS Ville de Paris was a 110-gun first rate ship of the line, and was the flagship of Admiral Earl St Vincent who commanded the Channel Fleet in 1800. The 2^nd Captain was George Grey, who had been Captain of HMS Victory from 1795-1797. HMS Royal George was a 100-gun first rate ship of the line commanded in 1800 by Admiral Sir Hyde Parker.

GILPIN, William (1724–1804), writer on art and headmaster. Autograph letter signed to 'Dear Sir' [Mr Kirby?], 1 side 4to, Cheam Jan 2 1777, saying he has written "to Lord Dartmouth abt the papers, & have just had an answer from him, - he will be ready to deliver them to Mr Gough, whenever he pleases" and sending his compliments to Mrs Kirby[?]

Gilpin left Cheam in the year this letter was written (1777) to become vicar of Boldre in the New Forest, Hampshire, a living presented to him by William Mitford, which gave him an income of £600 a year (ODNB). 'Mr Gough' is the antiquary Richard Gough (1735-1809) who from 1773 had begun to work on the major task of revising Camden's Britannia (published in 1789). 'Lord Dartmouth' was William Legge, second earl of Dartmouth (1731–1801, who had resigned his post as Secretary of State for the Colonies, and became Lord Privy Seal.

GOODALL, Joseph (1760–1840), headmaster of Eton school. Autograph letter signed to Mr. G. A. Harding,18 Hercules Buildings, Lambeth, 8vo, 1 side plus integral blank with address panel, postmarks, and wax seal, Lodge E[ton] C[ollege] July 19^th 1823, letting Harding know that he will be in town in ten days when he will call to look at his shells - “Having already in my Possession very good Specimens of that species cone, which you mention I certainly should not be tempted to purchase any other. I feel obliged to you for your kind offer of putting your best shells out of sight; but I must beg you to embrace any opportunity of disposing of them, as my Collection has been lately increased by the Purchase of a large Cabinet in France, and consequently my Desiderata are fewer in Number”. Strip of adhering paper on rear edge indicating removal from an album, and piece of paper detached from rear corner under the seal.

Goodall became Headmaster of Eaton in 1801 in succession to George Heath, under whom discipline had slipped, following which, the school made a recovery in its numbers and reputation. In 1808 he became canon of Windsor and in1809 provost of Eton by the express wish of George III (ODNB). Goodall’s interest in natural science is not noted in the DNB, but his collection of shells, minerals & fossils was sold by Stevens, the natural history auctioneers, in 1840.

GREENWOOD, Alfred, (c1821-1851), naturalist. Autograph diary / notebook, the first page inscribed in bold ink ALFRED GREENWOOD CHELMSFORD ESSEX, containing 24 pages of natural history entries, one from April 15^th 1842, but all others running from November 3^rd 1843 – July 1^st 1844, and at the rear of the book a manuscript botanical glossary of 21 pages, between which is a large section of blank pages. Bound in full diced leather, the spine and edges worn, with marbled endpapers, 4.5 x 6 inches. Greenwood records a trip to Cornwall with his brother “Fred” on natural history pursuits starting on November 3^rd 1843, and returning on May 18^th 1844. During this trip he records many excursions collecting plants and birds eggs, shooting birds, and contact with other naturalists (especially with Vingoe and Ralfs).

9^th [November] Thursday. Fred shot a short eared owl (Otus brachiotus) in the Marazion Marshes also a jack snipe (Scolopax gallinula). Went to my lodgings at Vingoe’s for dinner and settled in there.

1^st of January 1844. Monday. Walked with Jno. Ralfs to Bologas to gather mosses.

14 [February]. Mr Hore showed me the Museum of the Natural History Society of Plymouth & Pincombe’s birds (a stuffer of Devonport) also a collection of Dr [Cornelius] Tripe of Devonport which contained many rare birds among others an Eared Grebe in perfect summer plumage. Mr H made me a handsome present of mosses &c.

10^th [April]. Walked to Tringuenton [Trengwainton] Pond with Miss Ralfs and Couch. Gath. Hypnum plumosum and H. palustre

15^th [May]. Fine passage arrived at Bristol about 4am. at 7 drove to hotel called on Mr Thwaites. Took a walk with him in the afternoon. Gath. Carex clandestina & recurva, Trinia glaberrima &c. on Durdam Down.

30^th[May]. Dined with Chas. Warner his Osmunda in the glass case had fructification upon it.

June 1^st. Called at Ross’s about a microscope. Returned home in the evening to Chelmsford.

5^th[June]. Attended Monthly Meetg. The discussion on J. Marriage Senr’s case lasted till 51/2 p.m. but Friends were unable to settle it, & it was referred at last to the Quarterly Meeting. Heppenstall dined with us.

During his Cornish trip Greenwood stays with, and goes on collecting excursions with the taxidermist William Henry Vingoe (1807-1888) of Madron. Several collecting trips are also made with the surgeon and botanist John Ralfs (1807–1890). Ralfs withdrew from practice due to ill health, settled in Penzance in 1837, and here developed his interest in botany. In 1839 he published British Phaenogamous Plants and Ferns, following which he developed a fascination with freshwater algae, leading in 1848 to his publication on The British Desmidieae.

Other acquaintances of interest include the Bristol botanist and entomologist George Henry Kendrick Thwaites (1812–1882), and the Plymouth botanist Rev William Strong Hore (1807-1882). Brief reference is also made to Couch, most likely the naturalist Richard Quiller Couch (1816–1863), son of the Cornish naturalist Jonathan Couch.

Alfred Greenwood published a number of papers on botany and entomology and was a regular contributor of observations to the Zoologist during his short life. He was elected as a non-resident Fellow of the Botanical Society of Edinburgh on 13^th June 1844, and later became a corresponding member of the Penzance Natural History and Antiquarian Society. Upon his death his extensive herbarium was presented to the museum of the Penzance Natural History and Antiquarian Society.

GRUBB, J . Autograph letter signed to Joseph Glossop, 3 sides, 4to, London 27 March 1820, complaining of being excluded from a position in the theatre. "For motives which you have not divulged to me you have thought expedient to take into the Theatre a person of the name of Roraus [?] who has officiated and taken on himself and even announced to the Public His being the Box Book Keeper of that Theatre ............. Why did those Proprietors contract with me that I should enjoy and hold the same so long as I paid into the Treasury the annual Sum of Fifty pounds after the expiration of the two years from the opening of the Theatre .......... If on the other hand it is a step taken by You; and if determined to persevere in, I must have recourse to Law for Justice".

The Royal Coburg Theatre opened 11th May 1818, and was re-launched in 1833 as the Royal Victoria Theatre, nicknamed the Old Vic. Joseph Glossop, the son of a wealthy merchant, provided the funding to complete the building of the Royal Coburg Theatre, and became its first manager.

HARRISON, Elizabeth (1793-1834), horticulturalist and botanical artist. Autograph letter signed to Thomas Butler of Philadelphia, 3 sides, 4to, including integral address panel, Aigburgh, July 7th 1825. Regarding domestic matters between their families, and other news, including her brother's travels in Brazil, and her brother-in-law's work in connection with the Manchester & Liverpool Railway. "My Brother Henry arrived a few days ago at Falmouth from the Brazils ....... eighteen months absent from us ........ he brings with him a young Brazilian for education in this country ....... He has ... seen more of the Brazils than almost any Englishman who has been out there. He made many excursions into the country whilst he was at Rio and the same during his stay at Bahia and has made a very great collection of plants, Birds, Insects and other curiosities ............... Richard has been four months this spring resident in London upon Public business which I dare say you have heard of the making of a Rail Road between Liverpool and Manchester for the conveyance of goods, the Bill has been lost for this session of Parliament but all concerned in it seem very sanguine that it will be obtained in the next which I suppose will again take my Brother to London". Split along one of the paper folds, and edge of paper torn away by wax seal.

Elizabeth Harrison, and her brothers William and Henry, were the children of William Harrison, cotton merchant (1749-1812) and Helen Horton (1754-1824) of Manchester. The two brothers joined the family firm of Harrison & Latham in Liverpool, as Brazil merchants, and in Brazil, took an interest in rare orchids and their cultivation. A large number of exotic plants were collected by the brothers and sent back to members of the family. Elizabeth, a talented watercolourist, illustrated specimens for Curtis's Botanical Magazine, and for other specialists at Kew and elsewhere. She also spent much time cultivating rare orchids, achieving the flowering of a new genus (Sophrontis) at her home in 1826. The genus Harrisonia was named after her, and several other new species of orchid were named after her and her brothers.

Elizabeth's cousin Richard Harrison (b.1776) was evidently from this letter, intimately concerned with the construction of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway (the world's first inter-city passenger railway). George Stephenson was appointed in 1824 to conduct the survey and prepare the plans, but encountering difficulties with landowners, the plans laid before Parliament in 1825 were found deficient and the bill was thrown out. The bill was reintroduced in 1826, with new plans drawn up by George and John Rennie, and received Royal Assent. Stephenson was appointed engineer, and the line finally opened in 1830. The largest number of subscriptions for shares came from Liverpool merchants, and the Harrison family business may well have been in the list. Further research into Richard's role would be most interesting to pursue.

HERVEY, Frederick Augustus, fourth earl of Bristol (1730–1803), Bishop of Derry, traveller, and art connoisseur. Autograph letter signed (Bristol) to Messrs. Gosling & Tharpe, 1 side with integral address panel on second leaf, 8vo, Padua 15th Ap[ril] [17]99. Regarding paymets to his estranged wife: "Lady Bristol having complained to me by the last post that her quarterly payments are sometimes delay by some tardyness of Mr Bond's. I beg the favor of you, in case of such a difficulty not to let her suffer any inconvenience but punctually to pay her on the quarter day, just as if you had received Mr Bond's remittance." In a postscript "your accounts after receiving the June-rents, you will be so good as to direct to me Hanovre P. restante". Docketed on the reverse. The integral second leaf bearing the address has a cut corner (not affecting text) and signs of mounting at the corners.

In April 1798 Hervey set out for Rome, but upon taking to his sick bed on the journey, he was arrested by the French republican army. He was removed to the castle at Milan, and was not released until February 1799. This letter places him in Padua on 15^th April 1799, with intentions of proceeding to Hannover.

Hervey married for love (rather than a large dowry) Elizabeth Davers in 1752, daughter of Sir Jermyn and Margaretta Davers. Without obvious cause he and his wife separated in 1782, never to be reconciled. He spent the last years of his life abroad, and became an intimate of Emma Hamilton and a dabbler in the affairs of the Prussian court. His reaction to the death of his estranged wife, on 19 December 1800, was characterized by its coldness and indifference; he was heard to comment scathingly on her will. ODNB.

HILL / STILLINGFLEET / WEST / COX families of Dorset. 13 autograph letters signed by various related correspondents as follows:

Mary Hill to her brother and sister, Anderston, 18 Sept 1725, with p.s. from John Hill. 1 side 4to., regarding relations between family members.

John Hill to his brother, Anderston 4^th October 1725, 1 side 4to, re gift of wine sent to him; lemons sent to his sister; and asking him to make enquiries about grass seed, plus news about family affairs and friends.

Mary Hill to her brother, Oxford, Sept 12 1728, 1 side sm 4to, regarding family and friends “Arnell is now going to be married or rather to be undon, for its to every young lass, and littell or no fortune, but he says hes all for love; so I’m afraid it will be ye world soon lost with him”.

Jane Hill to her daughter, June 22 1729, 1 side folio, re her recent illness, and matters with a Mr Seymore and Mr Stillingfleet, with a p.s. “you was so kind to as to make me an offer of genney to by me a ring which if you are so kind to dow I shall take it as a very great kindness of you and wish with all my soule it had been possible to had some of my dear dear child’s haire to have put in it but cant be”.

Jno Woolfrys to unnamed, Anderston , Nov 1729, half folio page, re a brace of hares sent to his correspondent, and with foot notes re a presentment made by Mr Tregonwell against Mr Willas at Sarum.

Mr Stillingfleet – two ALS to his cousin (Mrs Hill), Cranborn 28 Oct 1729, and 13 Dec 1829, both 1 side 4to, re the distress of her mother at her son’s (Mr Hill’s) death. [Stillingfleet the grandson(?) of the famous theologian Edward Stillingfleet (1635-1699) of Cranborne].

Jane West to her brother, 26 May 1726, half folio, re Mr Neal’s will, and the estate left to Samuel West, elaborating on West’s family, and questioning part of the settlement.

Jane West to her sister, Hollwell 14 August 1732, 1 side half folio, re affairs of Mr Seymour, and re other family members. “the small pox in the poor Town being bad. I am in daily dread of my family – Husband especially who never had it nor none of them except my selfe”.

M[ary]Cox to unnamed. Aug 4 1737, 2 sides, re the death of her mother on Monday; her condition over the time leading up to her death; and interesting details of the funeral, adding that she has enclosed a lock of her hair.

Mary Cox to her sister, Jan 13^th [no year], 1+ side folio, re news of her uncle Mr Cox’s death, and making other enquiries about family members.

Jane Cox to her cousin, April 17^th [no year], 1 side sm 4to, worried that she has offended her “in case you blame me with regard to Mr Brasbridge I am Innosent…”

Jane Cox to her cousin, Nov 26th [no year], 1 side folio, thanking her profusely for a guinea passed on to her upon the orders of Mr Waller for Micklemass Quarter.

The letters frequently mention names establishing inter-related links between these families. Condition is varied (frayed margins being the most common fault). The hand of the various writers is very readable throughout. Much interesting social history content.

[HILL, Sir Roger (1642-1729) of Denham Place]. Two autograph letters in the same small neat hand, both 2 sides, small 8vo, from a collection of similar letters from M.Roe (house steward?) to Sir Roger Hill JP, MP (Wendover), of Denham Place, Buckinghamshire.

1. Dated April 2^nd 1726: “Lady Townshed is very much lamented who died of the small pox this week. She has left her Lord the care of thirteen children: Eight he had by her and five by his first Lady: to whom she was an exceeding good Mother in Law: they give her the best of characters: she was three months gone with child when she died: She had three Physicians: some say six: all of them except Sr Hans Sloan gave hopes of her life: but he said from the first she was in great Danger: her Lord was desirous to see her: but was not Permitted: he having not had the Distemper: we heard again yesterday that Will Lockey braggs he has recovered £800 of Mrs Edwin which he says will pay all he owes & set him free in the world. He told this to Saml. Nicolls of Allbrohatch: he says Mrs Bird is there: I suppose to play a new Prank: for officers are in his house. Lady Rachel Morgan was here yesterday. Mrs Edwin was one. She went to the Wallers: he Inquired after your health: and desired to know how the Trial went:”

2. Dated October [1726?]: “We went yester Morning to see Mr Hill he took a Vomit on Monday, which worked well he brought up some yellow Choler: since that is better. He begun to take of Bark at 12 a clock yesterday: is to take it every three hours: his purging is abated …….. …The Dauphine of France has saved a mans life: a Soldier for Desertion was to be shot to death his mother interceded with the Dauphine’s governess: who put the petition into the Dauphine’s order of the holy Ghost. The King came to visit his son, seeing the paper stuck there took it and read it and forgave the man for the babe’s sake ……… A Young Gentleman went a shooting this week, the Piece burst and put out one of his Eyes: endangered the other: he is in a high fever: his face full of shot: the Ladies give duty…….”

From a collection of letters from M.Roe (house steward?) to Sir Roger Hill JP, MP (Wendover), of Denham Place, Buckinghamshire. Sir Roger married Abigail Lockey, by whom he had five children. Their daughter Abigail married firstly Edward Lockey, and secondly Charles Edwin.

Lady Townshend, who died on 29 March 1726, was Robert Walpole's sister Dorothy, and second wife of Charles, second Viscount Townshend (1674–1738).

[Hughes-Hallett, Francis Charles] SMITH, Henry, MA, JP. Autograph letter signed to Mrs.[Emilie] Hughes-Hallett, 11 sides on 3 folded sheets, 8vo, Ellingham Hall, Bungay, 16th August 1887, with envelope bearing a stamp, regarding her husband’s gross misconduct under his roof. "....I met your husband by appointment at the House of Commons. He appeared to be in great trouble and distress about his relations with yourself. I invited him over to Ellingham and he came on Saturday 6^th August. On the following Monday there arrived a young lady .......... I was not in the least aware that there existed between your husband and this young lady any other feelings beyond those of friendship ......... my suspicions were aroused – I went to your husband’s bedroom shortly before midnight and found that he was not there. I then called upon a housekeeper ...... as well as the young lady’s maid and I gave them instructions to enter her room. You know the rest. I gave him half an hour to pack up his things and turned him out of the house." Smith goes on to relate details of things said and written by Colonel Hughes-Hallett about his wife, admitting "I thought him to be an ill-used man and I formed what I now believe to be a most unfair and unjust opinion of yourself." One of the three folded sheets split along the fold.

Francis Charles Hughes-Hallett MP (1838-1903) married firstly in 1871, Catherine Rosalie Selwyn (née Greene) who died in 1875 (widow of Sir Charles Jasper Selwyn, who died 1869), and secondly in 1882, Emilie Page von Schaumberg, born 1833 in Philadelphia, the daughter of James von Schaumberg and Caroline Page. Hughes-Hallett held the seat of Rochester, and before his fall from grace, was a highly respected member of the House of Commons. The young lady at the centre of the scandal was Colonel Hughes-Hallett's step-daughter, Beatrice Eugénie Selwyn (1865–1898), daughter of Lord Justice, Sir Charles Jasper Selwyn, and Catherine Rosalie Selwyn. Through friends in the right places and political expediency, Hughes-Hallett managed to hold on to his parliamentary seat, but he was much damaged, becoming carefully avoided in parliament, and hounded by the press. The Hughes-Halletts' marital beakdown turned in to a lengthy divorce court battle. Emilie was eventually able to move to Dinard, France, leaving her nightmares behind, and created a lively social circle in her new home abroad. One of the more intriguing aspects of the story is that Colonel Hughes-Hallett became involved in 1888 in the investigation of the murder of Martha Tabram in Whitechapel, who many believe to be Jack the Ripper's first victim.

HUNTER, Margaret (christened 1796). Autograph manuscript diary compiled in The Private Diary. London Printed for Taylor and Hessey, comprising 5 printed pages, followed by 105 pages with daily entries in manuscript from 12th January 1818 to 17th January 1819, plus a further 19 sides in manuscript headed APPENDIX consisting of expanded diary entries, and a further 12 sides in manuscript headed INDEX being a continuation of diary entries from 22 February 1819 to 18th May 1819. The last two sides (17th & 18th May) plus a loosely inserted page are in a different hand initialled R.L. Bound in half leather, 8vo (12.5 x 18.5 cm), with a label on the front board, worn.

The diary entries locate Margaret Hunter living in Bloomsbury, London. Regular activities include reading; teaching the children (Helen, Percival and George); writing and accounts; visiting museums and art exhibitions; attending the theatre; playing music; attending church each Sunday (at the Bedford Chapel); dining and social engagements. From 21st August to 17th October Margaret goes to Malvern with five of her young brothers and sisters, where in 3 pages in the Appendix (Sept 19th) she reflects upon the delights of country life. The following entries give a flavour of her range of activities, family, and circle of acquaintances:

12 January: Breakfasted at 1/2 past nine, after the usual Monday morning’s avocations , went to the Museum, passed an hour in looking through the three first cases of the Saloon [in the Appendix: .... they contain various Bitumens, oriental & other gems & Rock Chrystals] – In the evening had “the Gentle Shepherd” played at Backgammon with my Father at chess with Walter.

23 January: After Breakfast taught Helen music Percival and George reading. Sundry employments till near one in the Store Room. Copied music till three. Went out with Mrs Stewart – worked from four till 1/2 past. Dined at Mr Mill’s Bedford Square.

27 January: Left Blackheath at a little after three. Got home just in time to dress for Dinner. In the evening went to Drury Lane with Capt & Mrs Stewart. Saw The Belles Strategem.

11 February: Rose late. After Breakfast employed with accounts etc. In a complete whirl with morning callers, Doctors Babington & -?- etc till past four. Dined at Mr Burnies to meet the Gossets[?]. Finished Gibbon before I went to bed. [Probably William Babington, physician and mineralogist].

18 March: After Breakfast & teaching Helen went to Church …….. afterwards called upon Mrs Forrest – Father pleased with her – Went in the evening to Lloyd’s Orrery with Capt & Mrs Stewart & Mrs F fainted & obliged to go home.[R.E. Lloyd provided popular demonstrations of his "Grand Transparent Orrery" also known as the Dioastrodoxon].

30 March [Appendix] : I went through the India House and was much pleased with all I saw – especially the prints & a view of Chinghee in the small room. The Library is well worth seeing. There are cases in it filled with curiosities of various kinds – such as the Chameleon, the different spices in their original, statues etc. A very good picture over the mantle piece of Ali Shah the present King of Persia – at each end of the mantle piece some Aloe wood which when burnt has a fragrant perfume.[East India House in Leadenhall Street was the home of the East India Company. The building was demolished in 1862 and its fine collections were dispersed, most ending up in the Victoria & Albert Museum]

4 April: A happy day – a stolen kiss from Gravesend. In the house all day – Boys out – quietness & comfort within. R.L. dined with us. [in another hand] a happy day indeed R.L.

12 April: R.L. breakfasted with us after it gained my Father’s consent & went away at 11. I went to church in the morning with J.Lowis. Prevented in the afternoon by the arrival of Mrs Stewart from Gravesend….

16 April: ….. went to Blackheath at 11- on our way home the horses ran off & upset a cart almost killed its driver, & had a very narrow escape ourselves.

30 May: Went in the morning to a Catholic Chapel with J.Mathy – pleased with the music but disgusted with the form of the religion – Went to Bedford Chapel in the afternoon – D.Coulthard & A.Campbell dined with us. In the evening read 2 of Mr Mathews Sermons.

9 June: Went at 2 o’clock with the Miss Hyslops & Mr Harley to the Watercolour Exhibition at Spring Gardens, & the British Gallery – disappointed with the cartoons. No company to dinner. [The Society of Painters in Oil and Watercolours held annual exhibitions of watercolours at the Spring Gardens gallery.]

17 July: Very unwell all the morning teaching Helen & cooking provisions till 12 when Miss Backly came to spend the day with us – went with her in the afternoon to see Bowes enamelled miniatures and the Judgement of Brutus at Bullock’s Museum. [The museum of the naturalist and antiquary William Bullock was from 1812 to 1819 located in the specially built Egyptian Hall, Piccadilly].

21 August: Left home 20 minutes before seven in the morning with Anne, Walter, Helen, Percival & George for Malvern dined at Henley & reached Woodstock by 1/2 past seven in the evening where we slept.

8 October [Malvern]: Spent an hour &1/2 before breakfast in the organ loft, present at the marriage of Miss Stillingfleet. The day consumed in walking, writing, reading, working, and much idleness – to bed by 11. [Miss Stillingfleet is probably one of the daughters of Rev.James Stillingfleet, prebendary of Worcester]

24 October: Out of spirits all the morning working & writing – do afternoon. ? came home from Kensington. My Father consulted Sir E. Holme about himself – the evening spent as usual – to bed at 11. [Sir Everard Home (1756–1832), surgeon, and sergeant-surgeon to George III]

6 December: Went to Bedford Chapel in the morning – heard a sermon on the death of Her Majesty by a stranger – did not go to church in the afternoon on account of a cold & cough. Lord Torphichen, Mr Gramham of [?], John Stirling & the Grahams of Boughton[?] St dined with us.

1 February [1819] : Went to Covent Garden Theatre in the evening saw Miss O’Neil in Jane Shore. [Elizabeth O’Neill (1791–1872), actress, was engaged by Thomas Harris at Covent Garden, where she dominated the London stage, becoming particularly praised in tragedies such as Jane Shore. She withdrew from the stage upon her marriage in 1819]

Margaret Hunter (christened 11th February 1796 in Bishopsgate, London) was the eldest child of David Hunter (1752-1822) and Helen McClure (b.1771). Her father was born in Dumfries, Scotland, and by 1794 had settled in London where he was a merchant in Broad Street. He married on 1st September 1794 in Liverpool Helen McClure (b.1771) sister of William McClure (1763-1840) a City of London merchant (trading with America), and later a geologist, christened by Benjamin Silliman as the “Father of American Geology”. Self taught in geology he drew the first geological map of North America published with his Observations of the Geology of the United States in 1809. William and Helen’s father David McClure (c1733-1799) was a merchant in Ayr and the landlord of the poet Robert Burns’ father.

David and Helen Hunter had at least eleven children, the younger members of whom by 1818 came under the charge of their daughter Margaret who was their teacher ie essentially performing the role of governess. Her young brother Perceval – William Perceval Hunter (1812-1878) – is frequently mentioned in the diary receiving lessons from Margaret. He was to take up a great interest in natural history and later developed a special interest in geology, publishing books and papers in these fields. (see H.S.Torrens William Perceval Hunter (1812-1878) : early student of both Dinosaurs-to-be and Wealden Rocks, a paper presented to the History of Geology Group of the Geological Society of London conference on Dinosaurs 6 May 2008).

The diary cites a large number of individuals – notably many dinner guests – who are associated with her father’s merchant business (esp. many merchant navy captains), into which further research will be rewarding. Margaret’s own circle of friends includes “R.L./ R.Lewis / Robert” from Gravesend, about whom there are frequent references alluding to a romance, culminating in gaining her father’s consent on the 12th April 1818. A lose leaf handwritten page found in the diary (see photo) is a token of love written by Robert upon reading her journal. The marriage of Margaret to Robert Lewis is reported in The Times 18th June 1819, which took place exactly one month after the last entry in the diary. Their history from their marriage onwards has not been traced.

JERMYN, Henry (1767–1820), antiquary. Two autograph letters signed, the first to "Ranald Macdonnel Esq, Mull next Staffa or Edinburgh", 1 side, large 4to, with integral blank with address panel, Sibton near Gosford, Suffolk, June 22 1807, introducing Mr Dawson Turner “a most respectable Banker, and a man of very considerable Science, who has already added and is still adding to the public stock of Botanical Learning. His Excursion to the Hebrides with Mr Hooker is to look about them as naturalists, and will probably lay the foundation of some future work in Botany”. The integral blank sheet with the seal cut from the edge. Together with a second letter signed, to D[awson] Turner, 1 side, 4to, (no place) 12 September 1809, inviting him to dinner with "my friend Dr Morgan", but saying that "D.G.P." is to join him on another occasion. Paper strip on reverse from a previous album mount.

Henry Jermyn trained in the law in his early years, practicing from his home at Sibton Abbey, Suffolk, but most of his life was spent on antiquarian pursuits relating to Suffolk. His friend Dawson Turner (1775-1858), of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, was a banker, botanist, and antiquary, although at the time these letters were written, botany was his principal interest. Dawson Turner became a patron of the young botanist (later Sir) William Jackson Hooker (1785–1865), and in 1807 they toured the Hebrides together on botanical field work, aided by introductions from people such as Jermyn. Hooker married Turner's eldest daughter, Maria, in 1815.

KEITH, George Elphinstone, Viscount (1746–1823), naval officer and politician. Letter signed to Admiral Duckworth, Gibraltar, 2 sides with integral blank, folio, from the Minotaur, Off Genoa, 29th April 1800, Advising Admiral Duckworth on the sale of prizes, and confirming orders for the Généreux to meet him, "if it is possible to hire people to navigate them, it would seem extremely advisable to send them to Britain for sale, being first duly insured, as it does not seem possible that a quantity of Goods, to the amount which you state, can ever be brought to sale in the Gibraltar Market at one fourth part of its value ......... I have directed the Genereux to join you without loss of time, and to follow to your rendezvous, should you have quitted Gibraltar Bay."

In December 1799 Keith took over as commander-in-chief of the Mediterranean Fleet from Nelson. On 17 March 1800, while on shore in Leghorn, Keith’s flagship the Queen Charlotte, caught fire and was destroyed with the loss of about 690 lives, and having lost his papers and belongings, he was forced to transfer to the Audacious and then to the Minotaur. Meanwhile Admiral Sir Thomas Duckworth had been blockading Cadiz, and on 5th April had the good fortune to capture a convoy laden with 140 tons of quicksilver worth £70,000. Keith’s letter advises that the prizes be sent to and sold in Britain in view of their value. The Généreux which he ordered to rendezvous with Duckworth, was one of the two ships which escaped the Battle of the Nile, later to be captured by Nelson on February 18^th.. ODNB.

KERRISON, Roger, High Sheriff of Norfolk. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent ("Most Noble Marquis"), 2 sides on 2 separate leaves, 4to, Norwich May 21st 1800. Enclosing a copy of an advertisement for the approval of the Marquess " I here enclose your Lordship a copy of an advertisement, sent to the Sun, Star, and morning newspapers, which I hope will meet your Lordship’s approbation", with the enclosed manuscript advertisement: "To The Nobility, Gentlemen, Clergy, and Freeholders of The County of Norfolk - In consequence of the wicked attempt which has been recently made upon His Majesty’s Sacred Person I hereby request the attendance of the Nobility, Gentlemen ........ on Wednesday next the 28^th ........ to take into consideration a congratulatory address to be presented to His Majesty on His providential escape."

On the evening of May 15, 1800, James Hadfield fired a shot at the King in the Drury Lane Theatre during the playing of the national anthem. Placed on trial for high treason, he was acquitted after a skilled defence by Thomas Erskine, finding him partially insane. Following the verdict, parliament hastily passed the Criminal Lunatics Act of 1800, requiring that defendants acquitted on the grounds of insanity must be kept in strict custody. ODNB

KIMBER, John, mariner and slave trader, and PHILLIPS, Thomas mariner and slave trader. Manuscript letter of deposition headed "In the cases of Capt. Kimber and Phillips" in an unknown hand to "My Lord", 4 sides (incomplete), 4to, no date [1792] or place. "With respect to the cannonading (as it is called), of New Calabar, no less than 18 witnesses have made depositions on the subject before the Mayor of Bristol, who is a Commissioner for the Admiralty Jurisdiction ....... Capt. Phillips in the voyage preceeding the last, having a much larger quantity of good than he could dispose of, left a principal part of them with Amacree, and the rest with some of the native traders: and they agreed to pay him when he came again, 77 slaves....... This payment was refused to be made, unless Capt. Phillips would pay a much higher price than had been agreed upon. Capt. Phillips went on shore to expostulate with Amacree and the traders, who he, and his boats crews were, by surprise seized with great force and violence. He was with great difficulty rescued by Capt. Kimber, and some others....... he [Phillips] and several of the other Captains went on shore, and amicably requested Amacree, and the traders, to pay the 77 slaves, and restore the boats crew etc.......... The Africans refusing to pay their debt, or restore the boats crews, and threatening to prevent the English from having fresh water, the Captain threatened to fire upon the town. Amacree haughtily answered “If you fire a single gun, I will sink every ship in the river........ the next morning Capt. Phillips dropped his ship abreast of the town, where he came to an anchor and demanded his boats crews etc. but in vain...... ". With folds, paginated 1-4, and missing an unknown number of further pages.

On 7th June 1792, Captain John Kimber was tried at the Old Bailey for the murder of an African slave girl, on board the Recovery, on her return from Calabar on the West African coast. In gathering evidence before the trial, the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade (whose leading members were William Wilberforce and Thomas Clarkson) summoned Stephen Devereux, one of just two witnesses for the prosecution, who sailed with Kimber, to give evidence "in writing" regarding the firing upon Calabar.

The above document appears to be the fair copy this deposition. The indictment arose after threats were made by John Kimber to Wilberforce, who had named him in the Commons as having flogged a slave girl to death. Kimber was acquitted because of doubts over the prosecution witnesses, and he pursued Wilberforce for an apology and compensation, menacing him with physical violence.

LYELL, Sir Charles, first baronet (1797–1875), geologist. Autograph letter (third person) to E.W.Brayley Esq, 8 Powell St West, King Square, 1 side plus integral address panel with seal, three hand-struck frank marks, 8vo, 16 Hart St., Bloomsbury Sqre., Novr. 23 1839, informing Brayley that he has “found the illustration he wished to borrow & has ordered it to be left out for him”. Piece missing from blank corner, edges partly browned and archival tape applied to weak folds.

The letter is probably to Edward William Brayley (1801/2–1870), writer and lecturer on science, the eldest son of Edward Wedlake Brayley (1773–1854), the topographer. Brayley was active in providing lectures in science to many of the London institutions from the late 1820s to the end of his life, and had wide ranging scientific interests especially in geology, which brought him into contact with Charles Lyell. At the time of writing Lyell was completing work on the 6th edition of his Principles of Geology (published in June 1840). Letters from Lyell from these early years are very scarce.

MIVART, St George Jackson (1827–1900), zoologist and Roman Catholic polemicist. Autograph letter signed to E.F.Cooper Esq, 3 sides, small 8vo, 71 Seymour Street, Hyde Park W.[London], 11^th Nov.1882, accepting his hospitality for his forthcoming visit to Leicester where he is to give a lecture, and confirming arrangements for his arrival, also explaining “Since my attack of congestion of the lung I have not been out in evening dress and at this reason I rather dread doing so. I feel sure that you will kindly excuse my dressing but will others and my audience be equally indulgent? I should think if they know the circumstances they would be so”. Reverse of second leaf with remains of paper indicating removal from an album.

A self-made natural scientist, Mivart developed arguments which challenged both Darwin and the church. His quarrel with the Darwinians gave Mivart a name, a reputation, and a notoriety which served him in what had become his major goal as both scientist and Catholic, namely, the demonstration through reason (rather than faith) of the ‘essential harmony which exists between the truths of science and the dictates of religion’, between those of nature and those of revelation. ODNB

MOSTYN Thomas. Manuscript notebook concerning miscellaneous antiquities, signed on the flyleaf T.Mostyn, Geneve, Septr. 1724, 200 pages, 8vo, in a full parchment binding, containing : "Abbrege de l'Histoire ancienne" on 39 sides; "The inscription of the stone call'd a Taurobolium at Tein" on 5 sides; Roman coin legends listed by Emperor on 52 sides; and a list of medals on 1 side.

This manuscript is believed to have been compiled by (Sir) Thomas Mostyn, 4th bart., 1704-1758, son of Sir Roger Mostyn 3rd bart, and grandson of the antiquary and collector Sir Thomas Mostyn (1651-92). Thomas Mostyn junior, developed a taste for his grandfather's interests in the arts, and antiquarianism, and also collected books and manuscripts. His letter to the Royal Society "Of a torques (circulus auri)" was read in January 1742, and published in the Philosophical Transactions. One may suppose that the notebook was compiled during the course of a European "Grand Tour" in Mostyn's formative years, when a sojourn at Geneva was an essential part of the Grand Tourist's itinerary.

MURRAY, John (1808–1892), publisher. Autograph letter signed to Edward Herries, 2 sides plus integral blank, 8vo, 50 Albermarle Street, W, August 8th, no year, in support of his letter, on social matters, and book sales. "I have read your long letter to the Guardian & consider it temperate, -?- and really unanswerable though the Editor tries to sneak out of his charges. From a large portion of the Radical Press it seems impossible to obtain justice or to secure truth."........ "My Daughter has returned home delighted with her visits to St. Julians and with Miss Herries and your kindness to her .......I shall hope some day to persuade Miss Herries to look in upon us at Wimbledon"......... "As the sales of Herries Memoir does not at present bear a favourable aspect I think it well not to send it to you until Xmas".

Murray joined the family publishing business in 1828, becoming head of the firm in 1843. His family remained at 50 Albemarle Street, but in 1851 he also built a house in Wimbledon as a retreat from city life. He maintained the publishing specialties of the firm in travel, history, biography, and memoirs, and brought out a number of landmark best-sellers, including Darwin's Origin of Species. Murray published in 1880 Memoir of the public life of the Right Hon. John Charles Herries by his son Edward Herries, the recipient of this letter.

NORTH, Susan Baroness of Kirtling, Co. Cambridge (1797-1884). Autograph diary, 46 sides of manuscript entries from 10th June to 31st December 1808, interleaved with blotting paper, in brown soft leather covers, 4.5 x 7 inches. On the inner cover “Susan North 1808 …… My Journal which my Dear Grandpapa beged me always to keep”. Diary entries cover a travelogue from Cheltenham to Stratford, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Bath, and Oxford in the first half of the diary, with numerous mentions of attending plays (to see Master Betty); dinner guests and people visited. The second half of the diary upon the family’s return records daily lessons, homework, and visits, including frequent mentions of her aunt and uncle Burdett, dinners (every week) with her grandparents and “Mr Fuseli”, and more visits to the theatre (nb Drury Lane).

Saturday 25^th[June]. Went to Birdlip and dined under a tree at Sir William Hick’s Park with Mr Obins and Aunt and Uncle Sheffield. It is a very beautiful place. It stands in a very large forest ….. Mr Obins gave me and my sisters a piece of - & tormerlane – for a broch.

Tuesday 28^th [June].. .. went to the rehersal to see Betty. Spoke to him. I think he is a very well behaved boy. Went to the play. It was the Earl of Essex & the Weather Cock for Betty’s benefit. He acted the Earl of Essex in the play & Tristram Fickle in the afterpiece.

Thursday 30^th[June] … bought a sixteenth share in the Lottery for George & me ….. Went to the play in the evening. The play was Barbarossa. Achmet by Rollins to which was added the Weather Cock. Tristram Fickle by Rollins & Riches on the Tight Rope. It was for the benefit of Mr & Mrs J Watson, under the patronage of Lady Elizabeth Matthew & Betty’s last performance. He acted very well & Richie danced beautifully. The house was very full & Miss Preston came to our box.

Monday 4^th [July] ….. went on to Stratford. When we arrived we ordered dinner and went out to see about us. Saw the house in which Shakespeare was born. The Town Hall & Church with Shakespeare’s monument. Returned home & saw Master Betty who showed us the Theatre and were he was to act tonight (for the seeing of which we came) & a miserable hole it was. Finding that tonight was not the last night he was to act but that he was to act tomorrow at Warwick for the last time, we went on to Warwick …..

Tuesday 5^th [July] ….. saw Master Betty. Went to the Play & saw him act the character of Young Norval which he did very well. Did not stay the afterpiece …… Betty returned to Leimington & we saw him ride off.

Monday 26^th [December] It being Dear Maria’s Birthday we had a holiday & crowned her Queen with a wreath of Ivy entwined with a few Holly leaves …….. she gave Georgy & me & Mama a box which she had papered. G. & me gave her one which we had papered. Sophy gave her a Bracelet of her hair. Susan a little print & Aunt Burdett a Bracelet of Clara’s hair to whom she was God mother & Mama a nice large writing Deck. G. & me also gave her a pocket book.

Written when aged 11 years, Susan was the daughter of George Augustus 9^th Baron North and 3rd Earl of Guilford (1757-1802) and his second wife Susan Coutts (1771-1837), daughter of the banker Thomas Coutts. In 1835 Susan married Captain John Sidney Doyle, who assumed the surname of North.

Her several encounters with “Master Betty” at the theatre are of special interest. William Henry West Betty (1791–1874) first went to a play in 1801 where he saw Sarah Siddons playing Elvira in Pizarro, and was inspired to become an actor. His first stage appearance was in 1803 in Belfast, and by 1804 was appearing in Drury Lane and Covent Garden. He went on tour across England from 1805 until these final appearances in and around Stratford in July 1808, when he quitted the stage to become a commoner of Christ's College, Cambridge. Although he returned to the theatre in 1812, he never enjoyed the same popularity of his first years on the stage.

Another special feature of the diary are the frequent references to “Mr Fuseli” – the painter and writer Henry Fuseli (1741–1825). Susan’s mother was a close friend of Henry Fuseli, and she was to inherit from her mother over 800 of his drawings (sold by Sothebys on 14–15 July 1885). (ODNB)

ORLEANS, Louis Philippe Joseph II, Duke of (1747 – 1793)]. Manuscript order to Wedgwood for a china service: "His Highness the Duke of Orleans, desir Mr. Wedgewood, to Complit him a Service of the Same patron of Cheena for 18 persons Complit in Every Branches, for dersert .......... Mosterd pots &c: &c as Sone, as possible" signed Mogé. 1 side, c 200 x 110mm, docketed on the reverse "H.R.H. The Duke of Orleans Nov. 7 1789".

Accused of supporting popular unrest in the summer of 1789, the King of France persuaded the Duke of Orleans to go abroad on the pretext of a mission, and he accordingly visited England from October 1789 to July 1790. He took up his seat in the Assembly upon his return to France, and despite his support for the French Revolution, he was imprisoned and was guillotined on 6th November 1793. This document is a rare small surviving piece of evidence of the Duke's short stay in England at the time of the French Revolution.

OUSELEY, Sir William Gore (1797–1866), diplomatist and author. A small archive of signed letters between William Gore Ouseley, chargé d'affaires in Rio de Janeiro, and Rear Admiral Sir Graham E. Hamond, plus copy letters, all dating between March and April 1836

1. Letter signed from Ouseley to Hamond, 2 sides, folio, 16th March, regarding complaints of vessels having infringed port regulations, asking Hamond "to ascertain whether any foundation exists for the complaint in question, and whether in fact any infraction of the Port-Regulation of this Harbour, has been committed either by the Hornet, or by the Packet". Together with a copy letter in Portuguese, from Manod A. Branco to H.S.Fox, 1 side, folio, concerning the Packet boat infringement.

2. Letter signed from Ouseley to Hamond, 4 sides, folio, 16th April, regarding a reply from the Brazilian Minister received 14th April regarding the Port regulations, and explaining in detail the exchanges between Ouseley and the Braziliam Ministry over intepretation. Together with the copy letter in Portuguese, from the Minister José Ignacio Borges to Ouseley, folio, 1 side, 14th April 1836.

3. Autograph letter signed from Ouseley to Hamond, 3 sides, folio, 18th April, regarding a suitable Master to take the Hercules from Rio to England, asking Hamond "to direct that an Examination be made by the Master of the Dublin of the Qualifications in Navigation and Seamanship of Mr. Morley ..... to ascertain whether Mr. Morley is qualified to undertake the charge of the “Hercules” from this Port to England as Master", and commenting that "The good conduct of Mr. Morley on the late melancholy occasion of the loss of the Master and other persons from on board the “Hercules”, and the manner in which he is reported to have brought in the Ship under circumstances of distress and difficulty, render me desirous of confirming him if found otherwise duly qualified, as acting, Master of the Vessel."

Ouseley first went to Rio de Janeiro in June 1832 as secretary of legation, and served as chargé d'affaires there in 1833, in 1836 and 1838–41. His correspondent, Rear Admiral Sir Graham Eden Hamond (1779–1862), was commander-in-chief to the South American station from 1834 to 1838, this being the last posting of his career. The accident referred to concerning the Hercules was possibly some catastrophic engine failure - in 1837 the engineer Samuel Hall installed two of his 180 hp engines in HMS Hercules, which were successfully tested on a run from London to Gravesend.

PEACOKE, Brigadeer General Warren, army officer. Autograph letter signed to Admiral G.C.Berkley, 1 side with integral blank, 4to, Lisbon 16 July 1811, docketed, and with a note overleaf initialled GB "Captain Poulden to .... disembark the men at Belem...", forwarding a letter received from England regarding the disembarkation of the 9th Dragoons, together with the copy letter, 1 side, folio, from H[enry] Torrens, Horse Guards, 5th July 1811, "an arrangement which had been made for the transfer of the Horses from two Squadrons of the 9^thDragoons, to the Cavalry in Portugal, and for the Officers & Men to proceed to another destination, has been suspended by the Government, with the view of the whole Detachment joining Lord Wellington’s Army", clarifying the communication made by His Royal Highness to Lord Wellington "lest the 9th Dragoons should have arrived in the Tagus, and the original order for the draft of the Horses have been received from His Lordship by you; this communication is made to you direct by an Express Cutter, to carry His Royal Highness’s Commands, that the Detachment of the 9th Dragoons may ....... join Lord Wellington’s Army."

In the period 1810-1811 Admiral Berkley was able to provide Wellington with vital supplies and support, preventing the French from taking Lisbon and Portugal. With the French army retreating in May 1811, this enabled a regrouping of troops and resources to support Wellington’s continuing campaign, leading in 1812 to the capture of Ciudad Rodrigo and Badajoz, and the victory at Salamanca.

Peacocke rose up the ranks during the Penninsular War, only to disgrace himself on the battlefield, being cashiered having shown cowardice at the battle of St. Pierre in December 1813, and when he held back his regiment from the pursuit in the Combat of Aire, in March 1814, he was dismissed from service.

PEEL, Lt.-Col. Arthur Lennox (1825 -1875), army officer. Autograph letter signed, to "My Dear Gordon", 8 sides, 8vo, Jhansie [Bengal, India], June 30th 1862 , giving his opinion on the American Civil War "I should have enjoyed much being with you on your trip to Washington but all my feelings are with the Southerners and I am -?- to see that by the last accounts from England they have been walking with the Federals on more than one occasion"; on women "[in Montreal] the Ladies were not famous for dressing still when stripped they were much finer animals than their Yankee rivals. I have always said the New York girls ---?--- as far as faces hands and feet go but there used to be a considerable flatness in other parts of the body"; on the army's mismanagement "...... out here for a short time and you would soon discover how many soldiers lives are sacrificed each year to red tape ....... I wrote to complain of the Barracks leaking which was causing a good deal of sickness and requesting that the same might be repaired immediately and today I have received an answer to say that the repairs would cost too much, but then an application shall be made to the Lieut. Governor who will I presume forward it Lord Elgin and the repairs will possibly be commenced in about 6 months time during which we shall have buried I am afraid a good many soldiers who will cost the Government 100£ each to replace"; and of facets of an officer's life in India "We have got pretty fair shooting here but it is almost too hot to go out .......... I should like very much to dip my beak into a Sherry Cobbler now, for we have no ice here and a damp heat of 90 in doors prevents salt-petre from cooling the drinks much!".

Arthur Lennox Peel was the son of Laurence Peel, the brother of Sir Robert Peel (1788–1850), Prime Minister. His mother Jane Lennox, was the daughter of Charles Gordon-Lennox (fifth duke of Richmond) and Charlotte Gordon, the daughter of Alexander Gordon (fourth duke of Gordon). This letter is possibly written to his relation Charles Henry Gordon-Lennox, 6th Duke of Richmond, who had served in the army and in government. Peel's Regiment, the 52nd - the Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry - was active in India from 1853 to 1865. Peel writes from Jhansi (one of the centres of the Indian Mutiny of 1857) and his comments about the poor conditions portended a cholera outbreak in 1862, which killed over 80 men, women and children.

PELHAM, Thomas, 1st Earl of Chichester (1728-1805). Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent [John Trevor], 2 sides, 4to, Stanmer [Sussex], July 31st 1774, expressing his disappointment at not having been at home to answer his correspondent's letter by return, "I was a good deal surprised at your not mentioning anything to me yesterday of your design of putting an advertisement into the Lewes paper tomorrow, as I had been informed of it from many of the people of Lewes some days ago; as likewise your intentions of offering yourself upon the Trevor interest only ............... considering my long conversation with Lord Trevor .... and .... with you at the opera, very much surprises me as you could have no doubt from thence, what were the conditions on which I meant to recommend you to my friends at Lewes, namely that of your offering yourself under my protection and the sanction of the Pelham Family". Bottom right corner nibbled.

The Sussex Weekly Advertiser for 1st August 1774 carries an open letter “to the worthy and independent electors of the Borough of Lewes” from John Trevor of Glynde Place, expressing his willingness to stand at the General Election in place of his brother, Thomas Hampden. There also appears in the newspaper before and after this date, a letter from Thomas Hampden giving notice of his intention to stand down. "Lord Trevor" is Robert Trevor, 4th Baron Trevor and 1st Viscount Hampden (1706 - 1783), whose sons were Thomas Hampden-Trevor, 2nd Viscount Hampden (1746-1824), and John Hampden-Trevor, 3rd Viscount Hampden (1748-1824). Thomas had been MP for Lewes from 1768, and although he stepped aside in favour of his brother John, the 1774 election was in the end won by Sir Thomas Miller, 5th Baronet. Henry Pelham took the Lewes seat at the next election in 1780.

PERCY, Algernon George, sixth duke of Northumberland (1810–1899), landowner and politician. Autograph letter signed to Mrs Gladstone, 4 sides, small 8vo, Whitehall Gardens, Monday 28^th [no month/year c1860s], declining an invitation to visit as they have an engagement to visit the Duchess of Gloucester; and in reply to an earlier note “about establishing a new House of Refuge, I can give no answer at present; being always more inclined to assist the old and well established Charities, which must in some degree suffer from the innumerable new ones, which spring up on all sides. The Appeal is indeed most touching and forcibly written; I think I may as well return it to you, as you may like to send it on to other friends”. Stationary emblem cut from letter head (not affecting text), and reverse with remains of two mounting hinges. Comes with a carte-de-visite photograph of Mr and Mrs W.E.Gladstone.

As the wealthiest landowner in the country, Northumberland took his responsibilities seriously, and promoted and supported the foundation of a range institutions. His correspondent, Catherine Gladstone (1825-1900), wife of the Prime Minister, William Ewart Gladstone, involved herself in philanthropy, initially with the House of Charity in Greek Street, Soho, London, then in 1864 founding the Newport Market refuge for vagrants, in Seven Dials, London. Like her husband, she was also much involved in ‘rescuing’ prostitutes, sometimes helping restore their sense of self-respect by entertaining them to tea at 10 Downing Street (ODNB).

PINYON, Peter, medical practitioner (1831-1873). Small archive comprising a Certificate of Discharge, diary and photograph album relating to Peter Pinyon. Click the image for further photographs.

Certificate of Discharge printed on a vellum sheet (380 x 250mm) with manuscript insertions, naming Peter Pinyon, born 1831 in Ashburnham, Sussex, who served on the Mercia as ship’s surgeon from 10 December 1856 to 24 December 1857 on a voyage to Hobart Town [Tasmania].

Diary, octavo (120 x 183mm) leather bound, with a lock and key, free endpapers and first section missing, followed by 106 sides of manuscript entries, beginning 6 December 1856 and ending 21 December 1857 (many days with no entries). The diary commences with Pinyon joining his ship, then covers his voyage to Hobart Town, Tasmania, a voyage to Madras, India, and the return voyage to England via St Helena. At sea he provides frequent descriptions of marine life and birds observed, caught and shot; the health of those on board and treatments given; other ships encountered with (most are named); and meals taken. A few ink sketches are interspersed in the text, and a loose leaf pencil & watercolour sketch is inserted. The length of entries is very variable according to events of interest and places visited – the more detailed descriptions often run to 4 sides. The following short extracts give a flavour of subjects covered:

December 8th: “Saw the owners named Hotchkin, Mobbs & Prowse and was engaged at 4 guineas per month to go to Hobart Town and back / 5 guineas if passengers / with the chance of going to Madras”.

December 15th: “We have about 70 Emigrants on board and 8 Cabin Passengers named Harris, Quilter & Wife, Callighan, Wyatt & Gatehouse who is an Australian”.

December 23rd: “Steerage passengers pretty well satisfied one remarked today that they had capital rations – Cabin passengers almost in a mutiny they having taken Cabin berths at £60 without beer or spirits & they complain they cannot get spirits……”

December 25th: [the Steerage passengers] have a bottle of Gin to each mess and have made themselves very jolly, some singing in the Steerage after Service which was stopped. The Steward appears to have become very tipsy before 5 o’clock. The Captain had some conversation with him requested him to retire to bed. This appears to be the third time since we left ….”

January 12th: “Crossed the Line this morning ……. A good representation of a Horse hoisted up and then set upon by the jury. Verdict died from want of sufficient stimulus etc two or 3 boys dressed as women partaking in the affair as witnesses etc., after the horse hauled overboard…..”

January 26th: “Asked today by Mrs Turnbull to stand Godfather to the infant [born on board on the 13th] with Captn to be named Mercia …..”

February 10th: “I caught one Albatross at about 8A.M. the first on the voyage, in the afternoon there were about 40 or 50, during the day caught 10. I made one foot into tobacco pouch and another put by for pressing. We caught all with a hook baited with Pork ……the largest one caught 10 feet 6 inch…”.

March 20th [anchored off Hobart Town]: “the Town good size, fine Town Hall, the Governor’s House plain building of wood 2 storeys, large and apparently very comfortable – Market building very fine with stone Columns, covered in but very little doing, business very dull at present …… the houses far from uniform in appearance, 10s given for a room & £2.10.0 for two by a Cabin Passenger”.

March 27th: “Went up the Mountain i.e. Wellington found the base of some of the trees 36 feet round ……. covered with Gum trees of extraordinary height and mostly blackened with fire ….... immense trees lying on the ground evidently been felled with no other object than that the ground might in due course of time be cleared….”

April 10th: “Went to Browns River a very pretty Bay….. During the month have taken some Photographic views of the Town & of the Mountain & succeeded in taking a fair Portrait of myself……. Mr De Graves drove me up to Mr Brent’s about 10 miles from Hobart Town on the Launceston Road nice stone built house and outbuildings and a very nice garden filled with Apple trees, Medlars, Quince, & Almond trees, Grapes, Cherry, etc…… while there heard of a practice where £230 were Guaranteed at Bothwell and almost the certainty of getting £500 or £600 per Annum - very tempting …..” [see photo of these pages]

July 9th [near Madras]: “….70 days from Hobart Town, the 3 Kangaroos brought with us well..”

July 10th [off Fort St George, Madras]: “…..two boats alongside one the Custom House Officer, the other with 5 or 6 Agents touting to supply ship - one would not take no for an answer Captain kicked his posts. off the poop” [see photo of these pages with sketch of boat]

July 22nd: [a lengthy description of a fight initially between Robert Lamb and Fenwick, and then with Pinyon who comes to Fenwick’s assistance. Fenwick summons Police boats through raising flags and firing the ship’s gun. Lamb and two others are removed by the police].

July 23rd: “on shore with F & 2^nd Mate as witnesses. Lamb in hospital could not attend – Mr F went before Magistrate stated the case – the 3 men were sent back as Mr F did not wish to prosecute…… [then went] to what is called the Black Town…… in almost every street you see the Jos House … twenty feet high with carving of hideous monsters.…. signs at many houses stating their business, selling cigars 10 to 12 shillings per 1000 ….. Native Cars something like a sugar loaf or small Chinese house on wheels, on which the rider sitting on the heels under the canopy drawn by 2 or more buffaloes, the whole ornamented with strings of little bells making a great noise…”

July 30: “This afternoon soldiers embarking for Calcutta by the Companys steamers……. An immense crowd of Natives round them, many ships are taken up to convey troops to Calcutta. Affairs are in a very alarming state at Delhi & at Calcutta, the Post Office has been destroyed the beginning of the month”.

August 9th: “….went on shore with Fenwick …… bought what is called Ceylon Diamond for a Rupee – find it is worth 2 Anas. Drove to a Jos House found before it a terrace erected on Columns and very grotesque figures carved in stone at top with Jos House at back – also a juggernaut car about 30 feet high ….. supported on 6 wheels……… Churches like English new ones with mats at windows ……. Railway built of stone pillars but not at present finished …….. Jail with tower in the centre ……. [native cemetery] some Tombs very handsome with top built over but most going rapidly to decay…”

August 19th: “Went to the Fort ……. Visited the armoury, a splendid collection of Arms many thousands guns, sabres, Pistols all in splendid condition and certainly one of the finest sights here, also went to Botanical Gardens …..”

August 19th: “Have tried to take Pictures but failed in every case and give it up no doubt partly owing to the high temperature [he was undoubtedly trying to use wet collodion plates]…….. Visited Hospital, far from a fine exterior – wards on ground floor paved with tiles clean and comfortable. Verandah round the outside of wards, in other respects like an English Hospital with the exception of the Guards of Soldiers”.

August 29th: “Left Madras Roads …… one of our passengers named Captn Stone a very agreeable fellow who has been in Madras Army for 21 years …. Mr & Mrs Seymour the former quite blind….. has been a translator in India to the Church Missionary Society…..”

November 1st: “Arrived in St Helena ……. Went on shore to the town called James Town, neat houses none very large, in English style but few chimneys ….. drove to the Governor’s House a plain stone building…… two storied house with 7 rooms on each floor turned in to stables thrashing places, the room where Napoleon died a thrashing machine being placed, his library with part of the wainscot still remaining, altogether very disgraceful - from there went to his grave….”

Carte-de-visite photographic album, embossed leather bound binding with brass clasp (locking pin missing) (135 x 160mm), containing 30 CDV photographs. Most of the sitters are un-named, but two are of Mrs Pinyon [Fanny Witherden Pinyon], one of her mother, and another named as Thos. Hilton. The majority of photographers represented have Kent, Sussex and London addresses.

Peter Pinyon’s narrative of his voyage to Tasmania and Madras provides a fascinating picture of daily life on board an emigrant vessel, and a tantalising glimpse of Hobart and the other ports of call. One of the Mercia’s passengers was the schoolmaster and clergyman Richard D.P.Harris (1817-1899) who Pinyon mentions several times, including him taking the Sunday service on board. Harris left England with his daughter Charlotte and two sons to take up the rector-ship of Hobart Town High School. He was to maintain the school's pre-eminent position in the colony, and was to play an important role in the movement to establish a university at Hobart (see Australian Dictionary of Biography).

The Mercia’s visit to Madras in July and August 1857 came at a critically sensitive time at the very height of the early stages of the Indian Mutiny, when Delhi, Lucknow and Cawnpoor were under siege (see Pinyon’s comments for July 30th).

Peter Pinyon was born in 1831 in Ashburnham, Sussex, the eldest of six children of farmer James Pinyon and his wife Ellen. Peter Pinyon married Fanny Witherden Beale in 1859, the daughter of Charles and Mary Beale of Biddenden, Kent. In the 1861 census he is recorded as Peter Pinyon MRCSE & LSA General practitioner, living at Benenden, Kent, with his wife Fanny and 8 month old son George Beale Pinyon. A monumental inscription is recorded at Benenden Church reading: In affectionate remembrance of Peter PINYON, Esquire, surgeon of this parish, who died December 31^st 1873 aged 42 years. Universally respected, leaving a widow and one son, George Beale. Also of Fanny WITHERDEN, wife of the above Peter Pinyon, who died April 14^th 1884 aged 49 years.

PITT, William [Pitt the younger] (1759–1806), prime minister. Autograph writing exercise in neat copperplate of ten lines “Truth needs no disguise or ornament” , signed at the base “William Pitt. November 7th.1770.” on 1 side, 4to, with offset lines from the previous page, which read in reverse “Injuries are to be avoided”. Mounted on card.

William Pitt, the fourth child and second son of William Pitt, prime minister, and his wife, Hester (1720–1803), was born at the family home, Hayes Place, Kent, on 28 May 1759. A lively and cheerful but delicate child, he was educated at home, where his precocious intelligence engaged his father's interest. According to the Revd Edward Wilson, the family tutor, he seemed ‘never … to learn, but merely to recollect’ ODNB.

[SEDGWICK, Margaret Isabella (1823-1911)]. 28 autograph letters signed to Isabella Sedgwick, expressing sympathy on hearing of the death of Isabella’s uncle Professor Adam Sedgwick, and reflecting on his good character and achievements. Some of the more interesting biographical comments relating to Adam Sedgwick are quoted below.

1. Amy Elizth ATKINSON. Sunday. Fakenham Rectory. 8vo 3 sides. [Amelia Elizabeth Atkinson née Williams (b 1829 Carmarthen) was the wife of Michael Angelo Atkinson, Rector of Fakenham in Norfolk]

2. J. D. BANISTER.12^th February 1873. Pilling Fleetwood. 8vo 4 sides. In his letter he broaches the subject of a letter received from Mr Birkbeck of Settle concerning dividends under the Cowgill Church Trust. [James Dawson Banister (1799-1883) vicar of Pilling in Lancashire].

3. M. E. BIRKBECK. 31^st January 1873. Yewbarrow Lodge, Grange, Carnforth. 8vo 4 sides.

4. Margaret L.G.BUMPSTED. 6 th February 1873. Cambridge. 8vo 4 sides. [Margaret Louisa Yorstoun Bumpsted (née Doria) born 1828 the daughter of Nickolo and Elizabeth Doria, and wife of surgeon and Alderman Thomas Brooks Bumpsted MRCS (born c.1823)]

5. H. M. CLARKE. 3^rd February 1873. 25 Mount Street Grosvenor Sq.. 8vo 2 sides. [Henry Mathew Clarke JP (1808 -1889)]

6. H. M. CLARKE. 21 February 1873. 25 Mount Street Grosvenor Sq.. 8vo 4 sides. “I was looking over my scrapbook the other day, and came upon an extract which I was permitted to make from a letter which your Uncle wrote to Dr Livingstone from Dorset House in 1866…….. “Men are on the rack for physical discoveries, but all advance in knowledge is an advance in moral difficulty, unless there be along with it a sober and reverent spirit: when this spirit is wanting the difficulties of religion (which are but motes in a sunbeam to a good man) become no better than moral poison to a man of worldly temper”. [Henry Mathew Clarke JP (1808 -1889)]

7. A.CLAYTON. No date, no place. 8vo 3 sides.

8. W. L. COX. 3^th February 1873.The Vicarage, Temple Grafton, Alcester. 12mo 4sides. [The Reverend William Lamb Cox (1809 - 1879) was the vicar at Temple Grafton, co. Worcester 1867-74.]

9. F. CUBITT. 30th January 1873. The Close, Norwich. 8vo 2 sides. [Fanny Maria Cubitt (b.1804 Catfield, Norfolk) the daughter of George Cubitt and Frances Parish].

10. Janet Mary DOUGLAS. 3^rd March 1873. 20 Wilton Place, S.W. 8vo 8 sides. “I had been intending to ask ….. if you could some day persuade your uncle to let you search amongst his papers and see if you could lay hands upon any traces of the correspondence that there must have been between him and uncle Whewell …… Mr Tod Hunter has undertaken a memoir of my uncle and I have been asked to help in collecting and preparing the correspondence”. [Janet Mary Douglas was the author of “The life and selections from the correspondence of William Whewell”, published in 1881].

11. J. SEDGWICK FITTON. 29^th January 1873. 45 Sloane Street, London SW. 8vo 2 sides. “…. my good kind old godfather and dear friend. He was almost if not quite the last of my dear Father’s contemporaries and one of his greatest friends”. [The son of physician and geologist William Henry Fitton (1780–1861), and Maria James (married 1820)].

12. Florence. Thursday evening. The Close. 8vo 4 sides

13. C. J. GARNETT. 2^nd April 1873. Alpraham, Tarporley. 8vo 3 sides. “It was very pleasant to read what was said about him, particularly Dean Stanley’s sermon”.

14. John GUNN. 13^th February 1873. 10 Cathedral Street, Norwich. 8vo 1 side. [Rev John Gunn, FGS (1801-1890)]

15. J.W.L. HEAVESIDE.16^th February 1873. The Close, Norwich. 8vo 4 sides. “You know the controversy he had with Murchison abt the Cambrian & Silurian systems & whoever does the life as the scientific part of it shd be quite up to the Geological question to assign v. much his broken place in that science. This is the most material part of his fame ……….. his geological trips shd be treated in a scientific way by one who knows – think of a geological man & perhaps Dr Stanley wd adopt the science of another & intersperse it in his private life”. [James William Lucas Heaviside (1808-1897), a graduate of Cambridge University, canon of Norwich, and mathematics teacher].

16. Isabella HERSCHEL.12^th February 1873. Collingwood. 8vo 8 sides.“… my dearest father may be welcoming his old friend to a more perfect renewal of that friendship which formed part of the happiness of their lives”. [Isabella Herschel (1831-1893) daughter of Sir John Frederick William Herschel, (1792 –1871)].

17. J. T. HUNTLEY.18^th March 1873. 4 Burnett Street, Bath. 8vo 4 sides. “I have amongst the numerous letters written to me by your uncle, one in which he expressly dilates upon the blessings of the Atonement …… I have also the letter he wrote to me on his Brother John’s death, which no one could have written but he who was presently impressed with a belief in the Truths of the Gospel Dispensation. …… He lived to see his geological opponent assent ‘who would not’ said he, ‘have got off so easily had the controversy not visited one in my decay’.” [Rev. John Thomas Huntley (1790-1881) was vicar of Kimbolton 1819-45 and vicar of Binbrooke, St Gabriel, Lincs., 1845-81. He died at Falmouth, Cornwall].

18. Mary E. LYELL. 30^th January 1873. 73 Harley Street, London W. 8vo 3 sides. “Sir Charles has felt his loss very much having been so close a friend but I am a still older one. More than fifty years ago when I was a child I first knew him & he was so kind to me.” [Mary Lyell née Horner, eldest daughter of the whig reformer and geologist Leonard Horner, and wife of the geologist Sir Charles Lyell (1797–1875)].

19. J. Mc--?----. Wednesday. Meningham? 8vo 2 sides

20. Grace MILNE HOME. Jan 29^th Paxton House, Berwick upon Tweed. 8vo 6 sides, “He dictated a letter to me the 30th Dec and sent me the Preface to his Catalogue with such a kind inscription in his own handwriting. Papa was so pleased to see it again”. [Grace Milne Home was the daughter of the scientist and advocate David Milne Home (1805–1890) and Jean Forman Home (1811?–1876) of Paxton. In 1891 she wrote a “Biographical sketch of David Milne-Home”].

21. Cathn. A. NICHOLSON. 3^rd February 1873. Kelvedon. 8vo 3 sides.

22. Etta OGLE. 4^th February 1873. Led—ford Vicarage, Kings Lynn. 8vo 4 sides. We have, all of us, such pleasant remembrance of his kindness to us from childhood & he was the last link that bound us to our Norwich life………. It must be such a pleasure to read in all the Papers how your Uncle was prized & loved by all”. [Henrietta Ogle (b.1827 Canterbury) was the wife of James A.Ogle, Vicar of Sedgeford in Norfolk].

23. H. PELHAM. 29^th January 1873. The Palace, Norwich. 12mo 4 sides, written on behalf of the Bishop, asking that a ticket be sent to him for the funeral. [Henrietta (1812- 1893), second daughter of Thomas William Tatton of Wythenshawe Hall, Cheshire, married John Thomas Pelham (1811–1894), bishop of Norwich in 1845].

24. G.B. SEDGWICK. Seaforth --?---. “cousin”. 8vo 4 sides, “I saw the dear old man a few months ago he was kindness itself & gave his photo which I shall value more than ------ for it was so like him”.

25. Susanna L. STEPHENS. 30^th January 1873. Woodley Hill, Farley, Reading. 12mo 7sides.

26. W. H. WAKEFIELD. 27^th February 1873. Sedgwick, Kendal. 8vo 4 sides. “….. he is associated with some of my earliest recollections in connection with the Kendall Museum in wch he at one time took an active interest. Who will write his biography? Do you know whether anyone has undertaken it? Mr Gough wd make a sketch, but only a sketch at his time of life with failing health…..” [William Henry Wakefield (1828-1889) a Kendal banker and gunpowder maker, of Sedgwick House].

27. Marianne WARREN. Partial letter. 8vo 2 sides, “Lady Lansdown (The Dower) wrote to me the other day expressing how much she had felt the dear Professor’s death”.

28. J. C. WELCH. 29^th January 1873. Leck (paper monogram JCW). 12mo 4 sides. “the loss of one who has been like a second Father to you and with whom so much of your life has been bound up must indeed be hard to bear”. [Jemima Caroline Welch née Bridges (1840-1887) born in Thornley, Kent, married Lancashire landowner Henry Thomas Welch in 1859].

Margaret Isabella Sedgwick (1823-1911) was born in Dent, Yorkshire, the daughter of John and Jane Sedgwick. She was the niece of Adam Sedgwick (1785–1873), the Woodwardian professor of geology at the University of Cambridge, to whom she was especially close. Adam Sedgwick died on 27th January, and the funeral (alluded to in several of the letters) took place on Saturday 1st February. The details of Adam Sedgwick’s last days attended by Isabella, are recorded in a letter from her to Mrs Kate Vaughan published in The Life and Letters of the Reverend Adam Sedgwick by J.W.Clark & T.McKenny Hughes, 1890.

SEVEN YEARS WAR - Returns of the 63rd and 64th Regiments, February 1759. Five manuscript returns with extensive lists of about 200 men and their associated officers, rates of pay, etc, all signed by William Cuninghame, and directed to John Barnes, Commissary of Stores and Paymaster to the Artillery:

Return of ye men's names of ye 64th Regiment ...... Febry 10th 1759. Folio, 2 sides.
Return of the men's names of Colol. Watson's Regiment ...... Febry 18th 1759. Folio, 2 sides.
Bastra Camp Feby 17th 1759 The working mens names Genl Armigers Regt. Half folio, 2 sides.
Return of the men's names of ye 64th Regiment ...... Febry 20th 1759. 4to, 2 sides, edge frayed
Return of the men's names ........ 64th Regiment of Foot 22nd February 1759. Folio, 2 sides.

Each document also with signed receipt entry. Paper with folds, browning, and small faults.

The 63rd and 64th Regiments were engaged in the capture of Martinique and Guadeloupe between January and April 1759, which was particularly costly in lives lost by disease in the tropical climate. See also item 62.

SHAND, Alexander, (1731 - 1803), army officer and antiquary. Autograph letter signed to George Chalmers Esq, At the Office of Trade, Whitehall, London, 3 close written sides plus address panel, 4to, Gibraltar, 1^st June 1795. A long close written letter relating antiquarian matters in Spain, Britain and Europe - "the duties of my station in this garrison, has hitherto prevented my being absent above a few hours at a time, and I fear all my schemes of antiquarian investigations must be postponed till the end of the war, which probably a journey thro Spain may become more practicable ........ the coins however put the antiquity of the place beyond doubt & it is astonishing how much they abound. If you go in the plowing season, you can scarce part at any time in obtaining two or three copper pieces from the plough men, covered over with venerable rust. I have now collected a great number, which did not cost me so much as an Ochava ....…”, and in relation to Scottish antiquities: "The clergy are surely most to be depended on in such researches provided they have taste & exert themselves sufficiently – I am sorry to hear that our poor friend Lorimer appears to be irrecoverable – you may find among his papers (if worth inquiring after) many scrawls of mine, written as loosely as the present, on the ancient topography of the country". Two old paper repairs over holes caused by the broken seal.

Alexander Shand was the son of George Shand and Agnes Littlejohn of Parkdargue, Aberdeen. He entered the Royal Regiment of Artillery as a young man, and was to see action abroad, being wounded at the Battle of Corbach, Germany in 1760, and at Brandywine River, Pennsylvania in 1777. He was active at the siege of Gibraltar, 1780-82, by which time he attained the rank of Colonel. Upon retirement, he devoted himself to the improvement of his estates at Templeland, and to the study of Roman antiquities.

SHEPHARD, John (b.1756). Manuscript pocket-book inscribed on the flyleaf "John Shephard born Jany. 24th 1756", 12mo, 128 pages, of which 80 sides with MSS entries (in ink apart from 2 sides in pencil near the end), in a full green dyed parchment binding (closing flap missing, joints and internal sections with splits), containing a list of his books (4 sides); thoughts upon behaviour, marriage and maxims of gentlemanly conduct (12 sides); entries of itemised income and expenditure, from 25th March 1776 to 29th April 1782 (46 sides); and extended entries for 5th-7th July 1780 (14 sides) and 29th August 1781 (1 side) in which he indulges in much self-examination. A few of the more curious and interesting entries include:

"1778. Feb.5th. Mrs Cook Bottle of Wine .... tho Quaker [£] 0:3:0

1780. Apr. Fined for presenting my Bayonette [£] 0: 1: 0

1780. June 5th. ..... After Church Mrs Joseph Hale called, I certainly ought to bless my stars that I escaped an invitation with Miss Marsh.....

1780. June 7th ...... My object should be to be a good Draughtsman and Examiner, as for expecting much Business at present Prices to give up the idea. If I can push on in the manner I have done I shall do well enough .....

1780. Oct. Gave for the journeymen Cabinet Makers who lost their Tools at the Fire in St Pauls Charity [£] 0: 10: 6

[no date] ..... Is or is not Marriage proper ...... In its favour it may be said it will extend one's Connections - Make one rather more respectable - Be a means of one's living - more regular - and with greater order in respect of one's things - It will insure at least a true Friend on whom we may safely rely - Will, probably out of regards for one's rising Family make one more and industrious - The Convenience of having servants and then being Master of one's own house ...... The Disadvantages are ... the probability of not having a Woman as manageable as one would wish ...... being bound to another person to whom all our Actions must ultimately tend - It certainly abridges in a very great degree our Freedom - The certain Expence - the almost certain prospect of Children, illness, deaths etc. Unreasonableness and discontents at home - That single seems a most repressive Epithet of a Batchelor - Nothing you can intend nothing you can do but -?- Wife in it - Look at poor Townley - what a wretched hugga mugga Still he has lived in - In short who is there of your married acquaintance that you really envy."

A fascinating insight into the affairs of a young man in London between 1776-82 (aged 20-26), much of which can be reconstructed from his expenditure and intermittent recorded thoughts. His regular expenditure on coach travel suggests he may have lived south of the Thames, perhaps in Lambeth. His leisure time is spent in inns and taverns, coffee houses, assemblies (Cripplegate, and Clerkenwell), theatres (including Saddlers Wells), societies, playing cards, buying lottery tickets, watching sailing matches, and visiting Ranleigh and Vauxhall. His brother, father and grandfather are mentioned, but only his sister Mary by name. Many friends are mentioned (Mr Addenbrooke most frequently) as well as servants, tradesmen, and people associated with his profession, all worthy of further research. Internal evidence suggests that Shephard's profession was connected with the law, though his exact role is difficult to determine. He mentions several outings with young ladies, notably two Misses Chippendale - almost certainly two of the cabinetmaker Thomas Chippendale's daughters (born variously between 1753-1757). The Birch family are mentioned a few times, which may be significant since parish records list a John Shephard marrying a Mary Ann Birch on 17th February 1785 at St Clement Danes, Westminster.

SOUTH SEA COMPANY STOCK. Power of attorney, signed "Guilford" and "A.Gilford", one side, with wax seals and embossed tax stamps, 4to, March 4^th 1712. Instructions from the Rt Hon Francis Lord Guildford and Lady Alice Baroness of Guildford, with their signatures and seals, and with signatures of witnesses, empowering James Taylor to transfer £100 of South Sea Company stock. A very attractive document.

Francis North, second Baron Guilford (1673–1729), was appointed a Privy Counsellor in 1712, and the First Lord of Trade 1713-14. The Board of Trade was was headed by a senior unofficial member, the President of the Board, commonly known as the First Lord of Trade. The South Sea Company was founded in 1711 as a vehicle to fund government debt, having exclusive trading rights in Spanish South America, but in the ensuing 9 years, after waves of speculation, fraudulent dealing, and a War with Spain, the “Bubble” burst in 1720, and thousands were ruined.

SOUTH SEA COMPANY STOCK. Instruction, signed, from Elizabeth, Countess of Thanet to the South Sea Company, 1 side, 4to, London 16th January 1720 [1721]. "Pray let my subscription of one thousand pounds on the fourth subscription be placed to my acct. in Stock according to ye resolution of the Generall Court of the South Sea Comp." and in another hand below: "To Mr. Conrade de Gols Cashier of the Honble South Sea Co." and another hand: "Countess of Thannett 500. 4^th. Fo:105." With four central stab-holes, which align when the document is folded.

The fourth subscription for South Sea Stock opened in August 1720, and by January 1721 the Company's Directors and its Cashier, Robert Knight, were under investigation. Knight fled abroad on 23rd January. The reference to Conrade de Gols must have been added some days after the Countess submitted her instructions, and the second annotation suggests that her subscription was reduced to £500. Conrade de Gols was a bank official appointed as Cashier to tidy up the chaos left by Robert Knight. An interesting document in the history of the South Sea Bubble. See also the Harvey letter (item 50).

STELFOX, Thomas, army officer. A small archive relating to Thomas Stelfox, comprising his parchment commission as Lieutenant into the 70^th Regiment of Foot, dated 10th November 1762, with the signatures of George III, Robert Walpole, and [2nd Earl of] Egremont, plus a collection of 9 autograph letters signed, 4to and folio, to his wife, one from Paisley, July 3d.1776, and eight from Edinburgh, sent between April 20^th and May 27^th 1779, regarding affairs in the army and domestic matters.

“Paisley July 3d.1776 ……I board here with an English Family at half a Guinea a week, which is the chief money I spend …… I have bought the first 9 Volumes of Tristram Shandy Gent. for 3s. which I think cheap, and hope to read ‘em to thee one of these Days. I assure thee, they have made me both Laugh and cry. I will buy Stern’s Sermons and Sentimental journey when they fall in my way”

“Edinr. 20^th April 1779……I am now in a continual hurry, executing orders from General Oughton, was examined yesterday by the Sherrif of this City about a Villain who excited the Men to mutiny. I expect many other examinations on this dismal affair as I was the only officer of the additionals who attended strictly to Duty and consequently observed what passed ……… I was with General Oughton yesterday who examined me very strictly, to whom I gave honest answers, told him, I had done every thing in my power to embark the Men, without effect, his answer was, I’ll swear you did”.

“Edinr. Castle 21^st April 1779……there had been a squabble at Embarkation of the Highland Recruits who in general refused to embark, upon which a large Party of the Fencibles were ordered to carry them to this Castle as Prisoners; whereupon a kind of unequal battle ensued in which 10 of the Highland Lads were kill’d on the spot and 25 wounded, on the part of the Fencibles one Captain and 2 private Men were kill’d, and others wounded, in my endeavouring to reconcile these people without effect”.

“Edinr. May 22^nd 1779 ……I was this morning again with Genl. Skene who now tells me I can’t leave Edinr. until the trial of Tinkler Tom is over, a notorious Rascal who stirr’d up the poor highlanders to munity, and who I think well deserves a Halter”.

The parchment commission is slightly grubby and faded, and bears the usual embossed tax stamps, and remains of a red wax seal. Of the two folio letters, one (21 April 1779) has extensive crude paper repairs to the reverse, and of the seven 4to, letters, one has a small fragment missing (affects about 4 words) plus half of the integral blank/address pane missing. the rest are in good condition.

From the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War in 1775, the British had to send an increasingly large number of troops and supplies across the Atlantic. Drafting units came with its own local problems, exemplified by the Burntisland mutiny in March 1779. This arose when highlanders belonging to the 71^st Regiment of (Highland) Foot and 42^nd (Royal Highland) Regiment of Foot, refused to join forces with members of the 83^rd Regiment (Royal Glasgow Volunteers), who were preparing to sail to America from Leith harbour. A major grievance of the highlanders was that in combining forces, they would have to abandon wearing the kilt. A stand-off ensued, leading General Oughton to call for re-enforcements from the South Fencibles to seize the mutineers. Under the command of Major Sir James Johnston, the Fencibles confronted the Highlanders, leading to the hostilities recorded in Stelfox’s letters.

The origins of Thomas Stelfox and his wife Mary are uncertain. Their daughter Phoebe is recorded as being christened 27th December 1775 in Thorney, Cambridge, and a son Edward on 22 September 1779 in Stirling, Scotland (this corresponds with references to his family being at Stirling in April-May 1779). The letter of 1776 was sent to his wife in Peterborough. In 1767 Thomas became a member of the Liverpool Masons, which may be relevant since the name Stelfox has origins in Lancashire and Cheshire.

St VINCENT, John Jervis, earl of (1735–1823), naval officer. Autograph letter signed to his brother Wm. Jervis Esq., 1 side plus integral blank with address panel and wax seal (with tear), 4to, Torr Abbey, 6^th December 1800. Regarding his nephew and heir Edward and the family home "I write to Mr. Anson by this Post desiring to have the refusal of Hilcot agreeing with you intirely, that if Edward has not occupation he will be restless & unhappy – I will purchase any thing you like, as an equivalent for Meaford , which on every account, one wishes, should be attached to the Title", and in post-script "I am morally certain of bringing Mr Thos. Jervis in for Yarmouth, with a high hand". Together with a 19th century manuscript epitaph of St Vincent's life and achievements, on 4 sides, 4to.

St Vincent was born at Meafoot, Stone, Staffordshire, where his brother William was living when this letter was written. He had no children, and so on his death in 1823, the earldom of St Vincent and the barony of Jervis of Meaford became extinct. In 1801 he was, however, created Viscount St Vincent of Meaford, with a special remainder to his nephew, Captain William Henry Ricketts, who was drowned in 1805, so the title passed to the latter's younger brother, Edward Jervis Ricketts.

In April 1800 St Vincent took command of the Channel fleet, concentrating on blockading Brest, but the onset of winter and illness forced him to direct affairs from shore, at Torr Abbey, Torbay. ODNB

St VINCENT, John Jervis, earl of (1735–1823), naval officer. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent (Dear Madam), 4 sides, 8vo, Rochetts, 27 August 1813. “The intriguing Spirit of your honeyd correspondent has for its object, to make you subservient to his purpose, of obtaining on Influence over the rising Sun …….. Miss Brenton din’d at Weald Hall yesterday where the whole Family of Tower were assembled, to meet the Bishop of Lincoln, his Lady and 2^nd Son, who we have a notion, is to lead Emily Tower to the altar soon which you may be apprizd of although much secrecy has been observed in these Environs …………..My Sister mentions you in every Letter I receive from her & I do not fail to obey your commands in reply; having occasion to write her this day, gives me an opportunity to forward your Letter to Martha.”

In retirement StVincent spent most of his time at Rochetts, and retained a keen interest in national and local politics. His mind remained alert though physically he was plagued by rheumatism, a tendency to dropsy, and a troublesome cough. His wife Martha, died on 8 February 1816.

The second son of the Bishop of Lincoln (George Pretyman-Tomline) and his wife Elizabeth, was George Pretyman-Tomline, who became chancellor of Lincoln and prebendary of Winchester. Weald Hall, Essex was the home of Christopher Thomas Tower MP and his family.

Strzelecki, Sir Paul Edmund de (1797–1873), explorer in Australia. Autograph letter signed to "My Dear Lord", 6 sides, 8vo, Wilton House, Salisbury, December 24th 1859, sending some papers written by "Dr. Travers Twiss one of the legal authorities upon the International Law ....... who is about to publish a Commentary upon it. Could you help him in his researches .....", and commenting upon European politics "In a fortnight hence is the time of the Congress ....... being exclusively assembled for entertaining only Italian questions is accepted by all the powers – not so the second, which refer to the non-interference of an armed force in Italy, which England and France frankly subscribe to – but which Russia and Prussia accepts with reservations ....... As to Austria, she is prostrate and must accept the dictum of the stronger", and upon domestic politics and news "I received to day a letter from Naples saying that Ld. Holland died a Catholic, and left all his fortune to Lady Holland who became one years ago. This conversion of them does not astonish me a bit, for their religious state was a perfect blank on which the least effort of a faith, had a chance of producing its effect."

Born in Poland, Strzelecki left his native country, and travelled widely, engaging himself in scientific pursuits. His most important explorations were in Australia, but he settled in England, becoming a naturalized British subject in 1845. He became involved in philanthropic work, becoming a friend of Florence Nightingale, Lord Sidney Herbert, Antony Panizzi, and W. E. Gladstone, and received many honours.

Sir Travers Twiss’s major work in international law, “The Law of Nations Considered as Independent Political Communities”, was published in two parts in 1861–3.

TRAIL, Donald (1751?-1814), mariner and slave trader. Autograph letter signed to Cap.Hopper, 2 sides 4to, with address panel on integral blank, Cape [of Good Hope] 16th December 1797.Regarding the settling of accounts for slaves : "Mrs Simson ..... declares & brought Lieu’ Elphinson & M. Robinson to witness that you had repeatedly pressed her to receive your Girl Charlotte as a present for Her Daughter, but as you have now made a Charge for Her she in return sends her Bill in against you which is here inclosed amounting to Rx.372.,4 & which I must pay before she will deliver up the Boy ....The Boy has been and continues to be in a consumption I have wrote Mr. Richardson that to sell Him at present would be giving him away .......... in the mean time to send Him to the Navy Hospital as one of my people where no charge will be for Cure or Victualls ......... P.S. The Slave Girl I shall insist to be deducted from the accs. at Her full value – we have now here two ships with slaves & more expected which has reduced their value."

Trail was a sea captain who served in both the Royal Navy and merchant service. He became involved in the slave trade and transporting convicts through the London merchants Camden, Calvert & King. His treatment of convicts destined for New South Wales in the Second Fleet, led him to being indicted on charges of cruelty and murder in June 1792, at the same time as Captain Kimber (see item 61). He was however acquitted, helped by a reference from Admiral Nelson, with whom he had served in 1782 on HMS Albemarle. From 1792 to 1796 Trail returned to service in the Royal Navy, ending up as Master Attendant of the Cape of Good Hope dockyards, where he involved himself again in various merchant activities. This letter places Trail firmly back into the business of slave trading in 1797. Trail died in 1814 leaving a considerable amount of property and money to his family.

WALFORD, Thomas (1752–1833), army officer and antiquary. Autograph letter signed to an un-named correspondent [Edward King], 2 sides, 4to, 45 Queen Ann St, East Portland Chapel, October 28th 1805, regarding Roman antiquities, and other historical matters. "I ... am completely convinced your observations upon the arch are accurate and just, M.L.D. must now see them in the same light ...... I have sent you Sir a drawing of a curious Bronze Figure found within the Roman Town of Colchester in Essex, I presume it is intended for Cupid upon a Chimera, an emblem that Love conquers all things, or subdue all animals as I intend laying another drawing of it ... before the Antiquarian Society, should be thankfull for your opinion, for what purposes these Bronze Figures which personify Love were cast", and hoping he will visit "that I may have the pleasure of showing you all my engravings and drawings for any intended Histy. of Birdbrook", and extending his compliments to Mrs King.

Walford was born near Birdbrook, Essex. He served as an army officer, and took a broad interest in the arts and sciences, publishing a number of papers, and in 1818 two books The Scientific Tourist through England, Wales, and Scotland and The Scientific Tourist through Ireland. His intended History of Birdbrook was still unpublished upon his death in 1833. His correspondent is almost certainly Edward King (1734/5–1807), a fellow member of the Society of Antiquaries, who had a special interest in historic architecture.

MINIATURES

INCLUDING WAX PORTRAITS AND SILHOUETTES

ANNESLEY, George and Emily. Pair of small vignette portraits (110 x 140mm within oval cut-outs), hand coloured in the miniature style onto photographic print bases, in large oval gilt frames (307 x 347mm), bearing on the reverse the trade labels of Beards Photographic and Daguerreotype Institution.

George Annesley (1807-1872) was born in Clifford Chambers, Warwickshire, the son of Rev Arthur Annesley and Elizabeth Vere Tyndale. In 1833 he married Emily Vere Forster, daughter of Albert Forster and Elizabeth Carey.

BAYNES, Willam and his mother? A pair of portrait miniatures, finely drawn in pencil [1758], in Georgian frames, that of the lady measuring 113 x 133mm and that of the boy 100 x 115mm, both with suspension loops. On the reverse board of the boy's portrait is an old ink inscription reading "Willaim Baynes 10 years old died Nov 6th 1787 aged 39".

The information available from the inscription tells us that the boy's portrait must have been drawn in 1758 (which is consistent in style for both portraits), and that William Baynes must have been born in 1748. Further research is necessary to identify the individuals.

BEVAN, Edward. (1770-1860) Physician and apiarist. Portrait miniature on card, 68 x 85mm, in a composition frame, 122 x 147mm, with acorn suspension clasp. On the reverse, details in manuscript tell us that the portrait was "Presented by him to his fellow Aparian Robt. Golding of Hunton, Kent. Drawn by Jos Mozely 1826".

Edward Bevan studied medicine in London, and obtained his MD from the University of St Andrews. He retired from medical practice in his late forties, and moved to Herefordshire, where he became fascinated with bee-keeping. In 1827 his book ‘The Honey Bee’ was published, and later, after studying the work of Robert Golding of Hunton, Kent, he revised The Honey Bee, publishing a second edition in 1838. His work inspired the American apiarist Lorenzo Langstroth who laid the foundations of modern bee-keeping. ODNB

BROWN, Captain. Portrait miniature c 1790. Profile coloured drawing on paper (heavily browned), 75 x 95mm, in an oval wooden frame, 115 x 135mm. On the reverse of the paper is a later (19th century) inscription: "Captain Brown, Grandmother Fairbairn's intended husband, but unfortunately drowned on his way home to be married". An interesting story to try and trace.

BOWYER, Robert (1758–1834) miniature painter and publisher. Large high relief wax portrait by Catherine Andras, on glass (140mm) in a later (20th century) circular oak frame (248mm). Small damaged area to top of ear. Old label records "Lent by Capt Ingram No.26". Click on picture for larger image.

Bowyer trained in miniature painting in London under John Smart, exhibiting first at the Free Society of Artists in 1782, and at the Royal Academy in 1783. Although he enjoyed much success, his interests also turned to print publishing, and he produced a number of fine illustrated books, reproducing the works of leading artists. In 1799 he and his wife took Catherine Andras into their household, an orphaned wax modeller from Bristol, who quickly formed a highly successful business under royal and aristocratic patronage (ODNB). One of her finest works in wax was that of Robert Bowyer, executed on a wax ground, the original of which is in the Victoria & Albert Museum (illustrated in D.R.Reilly Portrait Waxes 1953 plate 55). The present wax portrait is mounted on glass, as was her usual practice.

BUSBY, Dr. Portrait miniature on ivory of a gentleman, c. 1780, 34 x 30 mm in an ornate metal frame with integral loop, 50 x 65 mm. On the reverse inscribed "Dr Busby when young". Some paint losses to background. Figure of sitter sound.

Probably Dr Thomas Busby (1754–1838), the composer and author. Born in Westminster, London, the son of Thomas Busby, a coach painter, and his wife, Ann, he began from 1775 to make his living from music and from journalism and literature. In 1801 he received a doctorate in music from the University of Cambridge. He married Priscilla Angier, and they had seven children, of whom their eldest child was the architect Charles Augustin Busby, who worked and died in Brighton, Sussex. (ODNB). The miniature came from Lewes, Sussex.

CLAYTON, Rice & Maria of Hedgerley Park. A pair of portrait miniatures on card, 1830s, 100 x 120mm, in matching mid-19^th century gesso frames (190 x 205mm). Identified on the reverse in pencil, "Mr Rice Clayton" and "Mrs Rice Clayton".

Rice Richard Clayton (1797-1879) was the son of Sir Richard Clayton 4th Bart and Mary East. He married in 1832, Maria Amelia Nugent (d1880) , daughter of Field Marshall Sir George Nugent, 1st Bart, and Mary Skinner. Rice Clayton held various offices in Buckinghamshire, including Justice of the Peace, High Sheriff , Deputy Lieutenant, and was MP for Aylesbury 1841-1847. He and his wife lived at Hedgerley Park. From the costume style, the portraits appear to date to the 1830s, and may well have been taken soon after their marriage in 1832.

EVANS, Gustavus (d.1862). Naval Commander. Portrait miniature on ivory, 51 x 76mm, in a brass frame 57 x 76mm. with suspension loop. Comes with 2 copies of a short printed biography, 2 copies of printed testimonials from Vice Admiral Edward Tucker (dated February 18th 1854) and E.Brine (dated February 14th 1854), and a letter of condolence from Admiral J.Martin, Feb.4th 1862, to Evans's family.

Evans entered the navy in 1799 as midshipman on board the "Europe", and in 1804 joined the "Epenier" serving in the West Indies. He was present at Duckworth's victory over the French at San Domingo; was afterwards wounded and captured by the French, then released upon an exchange of prisoners; and in 1808 was appointed to the "Cherub", serving in the capture of Martinique and Guadeloupe. Evans later served as First Lieutenant of the "Sheldrake" on the St Helena Station. After a long period without sea service, he was promoted to the rank of Commander in 1841. Evans married Anna Maria Bridges in 1825 in Tottenham, by whom he had at least four children.

FITZGERALD, Lord Edward (1763–1798), Irish nationalist and army officer. Portrait miniature on ivory, 57 x 73 mm, in oval wooden frame, 97 x 115 mm , with suspension loop, c1830. On the reverse, a backing with seals, and a handwritten label with the sitter's name. See also item 115 from the same source.

Edward was one of 19 children of James Fitgerald, first duke of Leinster and his wife Emily. After his father's death he went to France with his family where his military training began, returning to England to take up a command in the 96th Foot. He was later elected MP for Athy Co Kildare, but took a keen interest in the French Revolution, aligned himself with radicals in Britain, and joined the United Irishmen offering assistance. In 1796 he went to Hamburg to seek French assistance for an Irish uprising, on the eve of which in 1798 he was betrayed, and died of wounds received during his arrest.

GRAY, Francis, Lord (1765-1842) and his daughter Jane Anne. Cut silhouette mounted on paper, 184 x 260 mm, with an ink inscription at base reading "Lord Gray & his daughter J.A.Gray 1827".

Francis, Lord Gray was a Represenative Peer between 1812-1842. He married Mary Anne Johnstone, by whom he had one son and three daughters, of whom Jane Anne features in this silhouette. She married Col. C.P.Ainslie in 1834, but the marriage was dissolved in 1843. Jane died in 1873.

HUTCHINSON, Alfred Cooper. Cut silhouette of a young gentleman on card with a decorative embossed border (84 x 125mm), inscribed in ink on the reverse 'A.C.Hutchinson aged 18 1830' and further in pencil 'Alfred Cooper father of Henrietta Tucker, Harriet Hutchinson who.... [pencil erased]'. The silhouette is mounted under a black card window mount within an old frame (185 x 228mm).

Alfred Cooper Hutchinson (1812-1857) was by 1831 a Lieutenant in the Bengal Artillery, and an archive of his letters to his mother 1831-1846 is preserved in the National Army Museum, which includes a description by him of the Battle of Moodkee. He married Harriet Clarke on 14th November 1830 at Gedling, Nottinghamshire, and his death is recorded in 1857 in St James, Westminster. Research into his military career would be rewarding.

[KEATE, Dr.John] Full length cut silhouette of a gentleman, signed at the foot "Augt. Edouart fecit 1828". The cut silhouette is on brown thick paper measuring 190mm (7.5 inches high) in a maple frame measuring 190 x 295mm. There is a water tide-mark at the foot, which just reaches the bottom of the silhouette. On the reverse is an old newspaper cutting about Edouart, plus a lose letter regarding the sitter identified as Dr Keate.

This silhouette has been identified as a likeness of John Keate (1773–1852), headmaster of Eaton 1809-1834, who is know to have sat for the famous silhouette artist Augustin Edouart in 1828. It compares very closely with the caricature full length portrait by Richard Dighton c.1815–16, in the National portrait Gallery Collection.

PARSONS, William. Portrait miniature on ivory of a gentleman c.1810 mounted in a contemporary ebonised miniature frame (120 x 140 mm) with acorn suspension. On the reverse is an old handwritten label identifying the sitter, reading "William Parsons, also in oval Miniature with pearls of Bewdley, Worcs: Born 1st July 1755. Went to East Indies 1775. Married 1782? (Miss Asprey?). Landed at Weymouth 1793 (His wife in oval Miniature) [Father of] Penelope Turton". Also with a typewritten transcription label, and an auctioneer's (Bonhams)label. A very fine portrait in excellent condition, in an attractive frame (the latter with a couple of blemishes lower left and right). The miniature comes with a two page photocopy of Parson's obituary from the Gentleman's Magazine.

Parsons' obituary appears in the Gentleman's Magazine for 1816, which tells us he entered sea-service with the East India Company from 1769 to 1775, but "disliking the maritime profession" he was dispatched on a private embassy to China under the patronage of Lord George Pigot (1719-1777), Governor of Madras. On his return in 1777 his friend the colonial administrator Robert Monckton (1726–1782) and his relative Richard Hurd (1720–1808), bishop of Worcester helped Parsons obtain the lucrative position of Writer to the East India Company, which he occupied until his return to England in 1793 when he settled into retirement in Bewdley, Worcestershire. Further research is required into the details of his marriage (presumably in India) and family mentioned in the label.

SHADWELL, Isabella Cayley (1801-1880). Portrait miniature on ivory, 55 x 68mm, in gilt card oval mount, in a gilt moulded frame 213 x 258mm. On the reverse an old label identifying the sitter as "Isabella Cayley Shadwell. Dau. of Lancelot Shadwell, of Lincoln's Inn &Ur Gower Street, Barrister, by his 2nd wife Isabella Cayley. Born 17 Nov 1801. Died ummar. 5 Dec 1880".

Isabella was the daughter of Lancelot Shadwell (b.1750) and Isabella Cayley (1766-1854), the daughter of Sir Thomas Cayley, who he married secondly, on the 4th June 1797. Isabella's half brother (by her father's first marriage to Elizabeth Sophia Whitmore) was Sir Lancelot Shadwell, judge and Vice-chancellor of England.

TONE, William Theobald Wolfe (1791–1828). Irish nationalist and political writer. Portrait miniature on ivory, 58 x 74 mm, in oval wooden frame, 96 x 114 mm, with suspension loop. On the reverse, a backing with seals, and a handwritten label with biographical details. See also item 109 from the same source.

William Theobald Wolfe Tone was the eldest son of the Irish nationalist Wolfe Tone and his wife Matilda. The Tone family left Ireland for America during the deteriorating political situation of 1795, soon after which Wolfe Tone joined the French Army. After Wolfe Tone's capture and death in 1798, his family settled in France. William was educated at a military school and fought in the Napoleonic army, resigning his commission in 1815. His mother remarried in 1816, but unable to return to Ireland the family emigrated to America. William studied law in New York, pursued a career in the War Office, and began, with his mother, editing the extensive journals and papers of his father, which were published in 1826. In 1825 William married Catherine Sampson, but died prematurely of tuberculosis in 1828.

WILCOX, Rev John MA (1779-1835). Wax relief portrait, signed on the truncation E.W.Wyon, mounted on glass in the bottom half of a circular leather covered case, on the reverse of which is a circular handwritten label with the sitter's details "Minister of Ely Chapel; Lecturer of St. George the Martyr, Southwark. Chaplain to the Right Honorable the Earl of Kingston". Case diameter 109mm. Click on picture for larger image.

John Wilcox was the son of Thomas Wilcox and Elizabeth Cartwright of Gloucester. He entered Pembroke College, Oxford, becoming MA in 1803. He became rector of Little Stoneham, Suffolk, and afterwards minister of Ely Chapel, a part of St. Etheldreda's Church, located in Ely Place, off Charterhouse Street, Holborn, London. In 1822 he was chaplain to the Earl of Kingston, in his last years was minister of the Episcopal Chapel, Broad Court, Drury Lane, London.

The maker of this wax portrait was Edward William Wyon (1811-1885), a famous sculptor who exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy from 1831 to 1876. This is an early piece of work of Wyon's, given that his sitter died in 1835. He went on to produce many portrait busts and received numerous commissions from Wedgwood.

DAGUERREOTYPES, AMBROTYPES
& EARLY PHOTOGRAPHS

BROADBENT family. Tinted half plate ambrotype of a young couple and child, in a Victorian gilt frame measuring 210 x 170mm. On the reverse written on the backing paper the inscription: "Alfred Broadbent. Anne Broadbent and daughter Ada (Mrs W.J. Hirst). Circa 1856". The plate is much finer than in the photograph (the glass cover has caused miss-focus).

In the 1861 census, taken in Wortley, Leeds, Alfred Broadbent is listed as a painter, aged 22 born in Leeds; his wife Anne aged 26 born in Leeds; and their daughter Ada, aged 4, born in Durham. By 1891, Anne is a widow in Headingly, listed as a licensed victualler at the Royal Sovereign, living with her daughter Ada Hirst and son-in-law William J Hirst, and their children.

BRIDGES, Keziah née TANT. 1/4 plate ambrotype of a middle aged lady, seated, with tinted highlights to her jewellery. The plate has various scuff marks visible in the scan, but comes in a very fine full leather case. On the reverse of the plate is a label (torn) reading "Keziah Tant first wife [of] William Bridges and mother of Frederick Bridges 1841 - 1909".

Keziah Tant was born circa 1808 and on 12th October 1833 married William Bridges (the son of Edward Bridges and Phoebe Fray) at St Michael Bassishaw, London. Their son Frederick, born in Belgravia in London in 1841, was a woollen merchant, and married Anne Maria Turner in 1867. Another possible son is William Henry Bridges born in Tooting Graveney in 1837, who died in the 1840s. Keziah died in 1845.

COTTER, George Sackville (1808-1878), army officer . A 1/9th plate ambrotype of a gentleman, the plate rather dark but in fine condition except for a few marks to the right hand background, mounted in an attractive leather case with brass closing straps. On the backing paper is an old ink inscription reading "George Sackville Cotter Colonel CB Madras Horse Artillary born: died 1878".

George Sackville Cotter was born in 1808 the only son of Rev James Laurence Cotter and his first wife Matilda Sampayo. He married firstly Margaret Victoria Butler in 1831 (who died later that year at Jaulnah), daughter of Rev William Butler of Fermoy, Cork; then married secondly in 1836 Agnes Kilgour, daughter of Martin Kilgour; and married thirdly in 1850 Katharine Mann. He was invested as a Companion of the Order of the Bath. His uncle Colonel George Sackville Cotter (1783-1869) of the 69th Regiment fought in the Peninsular War and in the Battle of Waterloo.

COWHAM, Elizabeth née BILTON. A 1/4 plate ambrotype of a lady seated, with tinting to her jewellery and bonnet tie, the plate unfortunately with emulsion losses. Mounted within a full worn case with repairs. On the reverse is a card backing inscribed "September 18th 1861 Sutherland Hull" and in another hand "Elizabeth Bilton married Thomas Cowham. Elizabeth Cowham Manor House Skeffling".

Elizabeth Bilton was christened 25th January 1804 at Lockington, Yorkshire, the daughter of Walter and Susanna Bilton. She married Thomas Cowham 10th May 1829 at Sculcoates, Yorkshire. They are found in the 1851 census in Kingston upon Hull, when Thomas is recorded as a silversmith and pawnbroker, with their two sons and a daughter. In the 1871 census they live at Manor House Farm, Skeffling, by which time Thomas is recorded as a farmer of 240 acres.

Désilets, L.O. A 1/9 th plate daguerreotype of a young man in priest's costume. The plate is in fine condition (cleaned?), and comes with a fine matt and preserver inside a full embossed leather case, worn with the spine replaced. Under the plate on the backboard are pencil inscriptions in French including a date of 1855, and an ink inscription identifying the sitter as L.O.Désilets.

Probably the Canadian Catholic priest Luc Désilets (1831-1888).

EAMES, Alexander, Assistant Surgeon. 1/4 Plate tinted daguerreotype, showing Eames in full military uniform and wearing a medal. The plate has a small dent with surrounding rub marks to the right of his head, a couple of light scratches, and two halo spots (bottom right, and one on his sword scabbard tip). It comes in a fine full plain leather case (94 x 118mm), with accompanying service records and research. An extremely rare image.

James Alexander Eames was born in Ireland in 1833, where he studied medicine, obtained a Diploma in Surgery in 1854, and was admitted to the Medical Department of the Army in 1854. According to the manuscript insert, he served in the Crimea, and he wears a medal, which from the tinted side stripes in gold/yellow, is probably his Crimea medal. The daguerreotype comes with a copy of his application to join the Army Medical Department (GRO WO25) listing his extensive medical training. Further research amongst military records may be rewarding. In 1862 J.A.Eames M.D., M.R.C.S.I., is listed as a Medical officer in Co.Donegal. By 1870, Eames was Resident Medical Superintendant at Letterkenny District Asylum, Co. Donegal, and in 1873 was promoted by the Lord Lt of Ireland to the Cork District Hospital for the Insane. Eames obtained his degree in medicine from St.Andrews University.

EASTLAKE, Lady Elizabeth [née Rigby] (1809–1893), journalist and writer on art. Albumen photograph signed by Mrs V.Bartholomew. Pasted onto an album page with two autograph letters, one by Lady Eastlake, and one by her husband Sir Charles Lock Eastlake dated 16 June 1862 (see Eastlake in Manuscripts section).

HART, Henry Herbert and Mrs PAINE. A tinted 1/6 plate ambrotype featuring an older woman nursing a baby, sealed under a passe-partout mount of about 4 x 5 inches. The plate has blotches over it but this does not obscure the fine details of the two sitters. On the reverse is a paper label with an inscription reading "Mrs Paine and the Child is Henry Herbert Hart son of Charles Hart Woking. Taken May 6th 1857 cost 4/0. The child was 10 months old, he died July 7th 1916 age 60".

Henry Herbert Hart's birth is confirmed in the GRO index for 1856 at Guildford, Surrey. He married Elizabeth Cooper of Godstone, Surrey in 1879. In the 1891 census he is found living at Newland, Berkshire, working as a grocer and baker, with his wife Elizabeth and niece Edith H.L.Bone.

HOLDEN, Henry William. A 1/6 plate tintype of a bearded gentleman mounted in a looped hanging half case. On the back is an inscribed slip of paper reading "Ramsgate 8 Sept 1880. Miss Tig Holden. Your old Dad as you want him to be. H.W.Holden" and enclosed a weighing chair ticket of F.Dugwell recording a weight of 13st 6lbs dated on the reverse 8/9/80.

Henry William Holden was born in Sandwich, Kent, and worked variously as a gas works stoker and bricklayer's labourer . He married Hannah Fox in 1865 and had at least 6 children born in Ramsgate (1871 and 1881 census).

PITCAIRN / DUMAS / COCKBURN family. A group of four associated daguerreotypes from an archive of the inter-related Pitcairn, Dumas and Cockburn families, as follows:

1. A fine quarter plate daguerreotype of a lady, with original intact seals, in a full leather case. On the reverse is a label reading "Dorothea Jessie Pitcairn (Dumas)".
2. A fine tinted ninth plate daguerreotype of a lady, with original intact seals, in a full leather case. The plate is attractively tinted, but this does not show up at all well on my photograph. On the reverse is a label reading "Unknown - poss sister of Dorothea Pitcairn".
3. A fine oversize tinted half plate daguerreotype (115 x 160mm) of a gentleman with amputated arm. The plate is in good condition, with just a couple of light horizontal scatches, with partially intact original seals, in a brass matt and preserver. There is quite a lot of dust under the cover glass. On the paper backing an old inscription "F.Cockburn" and a later label "Probably F.J.Cockburn printed wrong way round".
4. An early tinted ninth plate daguerreotype of an unidentified gentleman, with original intact seals, in a full top-opening leather case. The plate has peripheral tarnishing.

Dorothea Jessie Pitcairn was the wife of Robert Pitcairn (1802-1861) solicitor, and campaigner against transportation, who lived and worked in Hobart, Tasmania. Robert Pitcairn became active in the cause for cessation of transportation from 1845, and withdrew from public life when transportation ceased in 1852. (Australian Dictionary of Biography). Dorothea was born in 1810 in Banff, Scotland, the daughter of Captain John Craig Dumas (of the 63rd Regiment) and Dorothea Paton. She had three younger sisters, Eliza, Anne and Margaret, one of whom may be the woman in the second daguerreotype.

The daguerreotype identified as F.Cockburn, is of Francis Jeffrey Cockburn (1825-1893) who married Eliza Pitcairn. He is found in the 1891 census in Ealing, Middlesex, described as "late Bengal Civil Service", with his wife Eliza (born Tasmania), 6 children, and sister-in-law Helen Pitcairn (born Tasmania).

The early daguerreotype of the gentleman may possibly be of Robert Pitcairn. The man looks to be in his mid 40s, and the daguerreotype probably dates to c.1845-50, suggesting a birth date in the period 1800-1805.

TODD, Matthew & Emily. 1/9th plate tinted daguerreotype, mid 1840s featuring a seated gentleman with a young girl standing to his right hand.. The plate is in fine condition, with tarnish to the bottom and side edges and a few spots in the lower half (most of the bright spots are dust marks under the glass). It is mounted in an early top-opening leather case. On the reverse is a label inscribed "Matthew Todd d 1853 my great great grandfather. Emily his gaughter (16 years younger than my grandmother) born 1832. Photo c 1840".

Matthew Todd was born in Millington, York the 10th October 1791 to Henry and Mary Todd. He was an inn keeper by trade working and living in the 1840s and 1850s at the White Hart, 26 Stonegate, York. His wife Isaline (marriage details not traced) is recorded in the 1861 census as having been born in "Savoy, late Sardinia now France". They had at least three children, William and Adrianne both born circa 1821, and (Lavinia) Emily born in York in 1832. Emily, who appears in this daguerreotype, married in 1848 John Smithson Rowntree, a railway auditor, and are recorded in the 1861 living in Botham, York, with their 1 year old son Walter, and Emily's widowed mother Isaline. Matthew Todd died in 1853 aged 61, and Isaline in 1867 aged 77.

TURNER, Alfred Wall. A 1/6th plate ambrotype of a gentleman, the plate with crazing to the emulsion, mounted in a full case (joint weak). On the reverse is a paper label reading "Alfred Wall Turner husband of Hannah Heath and father of Annie Maria wife of Frederick Bridges".

Alfred Wall Turner was born c.1814 in Chipping Ongar, Essex, and in the 1861 census is recorded as a licensed victualler living at 21 Old Burrington St, St James, Westminster, with his wife Hannah, two sons, a daughter and a niece.

Wilson, Christopher (1765-1845) banker, of Abbot Hall. An early small 1/6th plate daguerrotype (intermediate in size between a 1/9 and 1/6 plate at circa 60 x 75mm), rather faint, with peripheral tarnish, mounted in a top opening, full leather case (76 x 90mm). On the reverse is a paper label with the inscription "Christopher Wilson - from Bella Jany 1917". Click on photo for enlarged view.

Identified as Christopher Wilson (1765-1845) of Abbot Hall, Kendal, Cumbria, a partner in the Kendal bank of Maude, Wilson and Crewdson. Wilson's grandson was Christopher Wyndaham Wilson (1844-1918), who had a daughter, Isabel, believed to be "Bella", the writer of the note on the reverse. It seems possible, with Isabel's father's life coming to an end, that this photograph (a precious item in the 1840s) was being passed on to another member of the family. Christopher Wilson died towards the end of 1845, and from this fact and the early features of the photographic plate and case, we may attribute this daguerreotype to the early 1840s. A portrait miniature of Christopher Wilson by Philip Jean is in the collection of the Abbot Hall Art Gallery (illustrated on their website).

MEDALS

Campaign medals

Waterloo Medal 1815. Impressed EDW. ADAMS. 3rd BATT. 14th REG. FOOT. VF. Replacement claw and suspension loop, and modern ribbon..

Private Edward Adams belonged to Captain William Bett's Company of the 3rd Battalion of the 14th Regiment of Foot. The 3rd was a shortlived battalion raised by Wellington, mainly comprising young soldiers under 20 years of age.

Naval General Service Medal 1847. 2 clasps Martinique and Guadaloupe. Impressed JOHN CLARKE. VF. Original ribbon. Comes with copies of his enlistment papers and NGS roll.

John Clark, born in Portsea, was a Purser's Steward on HMS Pelorus, who enlisted in the Royal Navy at Portsmouth on 23rd August 1808, aged 24. HMS Pelorus was a 385 ton, 18 gun brig-sloop constructed at Itchenor, and launched on June 25, 1808. It served as a blockade ship in seizing Martinique in 1809 and Gaudaloupe in 1810, and in the 1830s was employed as an anti-slaving ship.

Punjab Medal 1849. 2 clasps Goojerat and Chilianwala. Impressed GUNNER J.MUIR. 1ST CY 4TH BATTN. ARTY. VF, but resilvered. New ribbon. Comes with a copy of the roll entry confirming his entitlement of these two clasps.

The roll confirms James Muir's entitlement to the two clasps, and records that he was sent to India on 20th February 1852. The 1851 census records at the Woolwich Arsenal, a James Forest Muir, age 21, Private, occupation stonecutter, born in Liverpool.

Baltic Medal 1856. Impressed R.B.WAUGH R.N. VF with a few edge knocks. Comes with a copy of his service records.

Richard Waugh appears on the Baltic Medal Roll as Acting 2nd Master, and his service record shows him on Aeolus (1855-6); Niger (1856-7); Hesper (1857-61); and Victory (1862). He was discharged in 1862, but was still making claims on his pension in 1899. He appears on the 1871 census, aged 54, living in Jarrow, and born in Scarborough.

Ashanti Medal 1874. Engraved 1455 COMP SERGT. MAJOR G.H.W. MOBBS 1ST W.I.REGT. 1873-4. VF but small mark E/- scratched above Queen's head. Comes with copies of Ashanti roll and service papers.

George Mobbs was born in 1836 in Lowestoft, Suffolk. He joined the army in 1866, and served in Malta (1866-78), the West Indies (1868-70) and West Africa (1870-75). In an alternating career of promotions and demotions, he was tried for absence and drunkeness in 1870, and was again on trial in 1874. His postings in hot climates affected his health, but as his records attest, "to some extent his complaint has been aggravated by intemperance", and in 1875 he was declared unfit for service.

EGYPT MEDAL 1882-1889 AND KHEDIVE'S STAR 1882. Silver Egypt medal dated 1882 on the reverse, engraved in sloping capitals on the edge "22715. A.BOMBR. M.McLAUGHLIN 1 [worn] LON.DIV R.A". Fine pitting, with edge knock at about 5 o'clock on obverse, and 8 o'clock on reverse (typically caused by the point of the Khedives Star worn alongside). Modern replacement ribbon. Together with a bronze Khedive's Star medal dated 1882, impressed on the reverse "McLAUGHLIN 1:1 LONDON RA". Corrosion mark at 12 o'clock, and small dent to star point at 8 o'clock, otherwise EF.

The Khedive's Star was awarded by the Khedive to all who were awarded an Egypt medal in the campaigns of 1882-1889 - in this case to those who served in the campaign between 16th July and 14th September 1882. Requires further research

Queen's South Africa Medal 1899. 5 clasps Cape Colony; Orange Free State; Transvaal; South Africa 1901; and South Africa 1902. Impressed 23572 TPR: R.MORGAN. KITCHENER'S HORSE. EF. Comes with copies of attestation papers, medical record, discharge papers, roll etc.

Robert Morgan was by trade a fitter, married to Blanche Lindel Morgan, and their home was in Garston, Liverpool. The accompanying papers show that apart from his service in Kitchener's Horse he was also attached for short periods to Scott's Railway Guards; Cape Railway Sharpshooters; and the 3rd New South Wales Imperial Bushmen.

Award medals

ARTS AND COMMERCE PROMOTED [Royal Society of Arts] Instituted 1753 [Mercury and Minerva Medal] [to HENRY JOHNSON]. Engraved on the reverse "TO MR. HEN. JOHNSON MDCCCXXIII FOR A COPY IN OIL OF A PORTRAIT". 52mm., with suspension loop. EF, with edge knock. Eimer 643. Together with......
ARTS AND COMMERCE PROMOTED [Royal Society of Arts] Instituted 1753 [to HENRY JOHNSON]. Engraved on the reverse "TO MR. HEN. JOHNSON MDCCCXXIV FOR AN ORIGINAL PORTRAIT IN OIL". 40mm., with suspension loop. EF.

Henry Johnson was a figure painter, whose work was exhibited at the Royal Academy, British Institution and Suffolk Street galleries between 1824-1847. These medals would appear to mark the very beginning of his recognition as a competent artist.

Challenger Expedition 1895 [to Stuart Oliver Ridley]. Large bronze medal, engraved on the rim "S.O.Ridley". 75mm. By B.Rhind after W.S.Black, cast in Paris. Eimer1797. EF.

The Challenger medal was struck in 1895 at the expense of John Murray, publisher of the results of the scientific voyage of HMS Challenger between 1872-76. Murray had replicas made, which he sent to every member of the expedition and the scientists who contributed to the report - 120 recipients in all. This medal was given to Stuart Oliver Ridley MA, FLS (1853-1935) of the Zoological Department of the British Museum, who in 1887 published the report on the sponges found during the expedition. By the time the medal was struck, Ridley had taken up a curacy in Wareham, Dorset!

MASON SCIENCE COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM 1880 [to St Clair Graham BALLENDEN]. Bronze medal, engraved on the reverse "PRACTICAL INORGANIC CHEMISTRY 1897 98 St.C.G.Ballenden". 51mm. EF, with a very fine high relief portrait of Sir Josiah Mason. Eimer 1670.

St Clair Graham Ballenden was born in Sedgley, Staffordshire in 1860, the son of Dr. John Ballenden and Elizabeth (Wilson). In 1894 he married Emma Bayley, and by 1901 was practising as a surgeon, still living in Sedgley.

QUEEN'S COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM [to Gerald Dudley FREER]. Bronze medal, impressed on the obverse "G.D.FREER" and on the rim "BOTANY 1884". 46mm. EF though grubby within the high relief.

Gerald Dudley Freer was born in Stourbridge in 1866, the son of Leacroft Freer, ironmaster, and Mary Anne (Davis). He studied medicine, and in 1905 became the first Principal of the Straits and Federated Malay States Government Medical School (later the King Edward VII College of Medicine). Dr Freer continued as Principal until 1909 when he was appointed Senior Medical Officer, Selangor.

Sir John Soane / Royal Institute of British Architects [to William FRAME]. Comprising the silver Sir John Soane Medal 1834 (Eimer 1278), set within a larger silver collar with suspension loop, engraved on obverse and reverse "The Royal Institute of British Architects To Mr William Frame For his design for a public hall. MDCCCLXXIII". 133mm. VF

William Frame was born in Trowbridge, Wiltshire in 1846. He is best known for his architectural work in Wales. Here he became assistant to William Burgess in the restoration of Cardiff Castle for the Marquess of Bute, and after Burgess's sudden death in 1881, he was retained by Lord Bute to complete projects at Cardiff Castle, Castell Coch, and other projects. William Frame's own designs include the Cardiff Bay Pierhead building erected in 1897 - the gothic red-brick Grade I building next to the new Welsh Assembly building.

ROYAL SCOTTISH GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY 1903 [to H.J.MACKINDER]. Silver medal, obverse in relief and reverse engraved and impressed: "H.J.MACKINDER MCMIII" FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICES TO GEOGRAPHICAL SCIENCE AND EDUCATION. 51mm. EF, with knock to rim.

Sir Halford John Mackinder, geographer and politician, was born at Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, in1861, the eldest of six children of Draper Mackinder, medical doctor, and Fanny Anne. Mackinder gained a first-class degree in natural science in 1883 at Christ Church, Oxford, and went on to study modern history, geology, anthropology, economics and law. He was appointed one of the University's extension lecturers, offering courses from 1886, including some in the ‘new geography’. He developed close links with the Royal Geographical Society, and in 1887 took up the newly established readership in geography at Oxford. He also helped establish a university extension within the school of science and art at Reading, which became a university college in 1902, where Mackinder served as principal. Oxford University and the RGS accepted in 1899 Mackineder's plan to create a diploma in geography, and the school was founded with Mackinder as the director of what was the earliest British university geography department. Mackinder was also an active lecturer at the London School of Economics, and eventually gave up his Oxford and Reading commitments to work at London University, moving from Oxford to London in 1904. ODNB.

Royal Scottish Society of Arts [to Neil STEWART]. Silver medal inscribed "To Neil Stewart F.G.S.E., Artist, Edinburgh for his Suggestions for extending the use of the Mariner's Compass read 10th July 1865 No.4112. The Silver Medal". 49mm. Eimer1350. VF

Probably Neil Stewart, natural history and medical artist, found in the 1861 census, in Edinburgh, who was born about 1815 in Edinburgh.

Science and Art Department. Queen's Medal 1856 [to Robert Barkworth JORDAN]. Local Prize for Success in Art Awarded by the Department of Science and Art, bronze medal, impressed around the rim "ROBERT BARKWORTH JORDAN. WESTMINSTER DISTRICT. STAGE 5B. 1865". 55mm. VF.

Robert Barkworth Jordan was born in London about 1832. A record is found in IGI of a christening under his name on 28 June 1837, in Kennington, London, the son of Thomas and Sarah Jordan. Robert was a clerk in a gas works, and married firstly Harriet Emily White, on 30 August 1855 at St Martins in the Fields, by whom he had a son Sidney Thomas and a daughter Harriet Emily. Following his wife's death in 1859, he married Ellen Connolly Walker at Chelsea in 1861, by whom he had at least 6 children. His family can be found in the 1861,1871 and 1901 census.

Society of Industry [to William ELMHIRST]. Silver medal, inscribed on the reverse "Mr .Willm. Elmhirst, Trustee, 1785". 35mm. With integral suspension loop. Eimer 809. VF.

Issued by the Society of Industry, founded in Lincolnshire 29th November 1783 to provide training to children of the poor. It was struck in silver and bronze from 1785 - the silver copies were sold to subscribers. The recipient of this medal was William Elmhirst (1732-1810) of Stainsby House, Horncastle, Lincolnshire, who was connected with Sir Joseph Banks by virtue of a common interest in Banks's Lincolnshire estates. Letters between Banks and Elmhirst are preserved in the State Library of New South Wales.

University of Edinburgh [to Harry Angus Alexander KENNEDY]. Bronze medal, engraved on the reverse "SENIOR HUMANITY H.A.A.KENNEDY 1884-85". 52mm. VF, with edge knocks.

Harry Angus Alexander Kennedy (1866–1934), biblical scholar, was born at Dornoch, Sutherland. He was educated at the Edinburgh Academy (where he won distinction in classics) and at the University of Edinburgh before studying theology at New College, Edinburgh, and at the German universities of Halle and Berlin. After 8 years as a minister at Callander, he lectured at Edinburgh to 1905; was elected to the chair of New Testament language and literature at Knox College, Toronto; and finally returned to Edinburgh to take up the chair of New Testament language and literature at New College. He published a number of far reaching theological works. (ODNB)

MOURNING JEWELLERY

ARTHUR, Thomas. Mourning pendant. An oblong gold pendant (max length 25mm), with suspension loop, comprising a centrally mounted lock of hair under a crystal cover, surrounded by pearls. On the reverse the engraved wording: Thos. Arthur Esqr. Obt.21 Septr.1794 Aged 49. In excellent condition.

Thomas Arthur, born circa 1745, died 21 September 1794, aged 49.

BURDEN, F. Mourning brooch. A navette gold brooch, with decorated edges, containing a hair arrangement under a glazed cover. The reverse with a steel pin and engraved naming: F. Burden died Mar.1 1787 Aged 60. Shows some wear on both sides.

F. Burden born circa 1727, died 1 March 1787, aged 60.

COOK. Mourning brooch. An octagonal gold brooch, containing a woven hair arrangement under a glazed cover, bordered in decorative gold, blue enamel and white enamel. The reverse with steel pin, and engraved naming: ….. Cook.Ob.6.Feby.1788.at.42. Originally a pendant (a small filled hole is present on the reverse of one end), the pin mounts have been added, one covering the engraved first name of the person commemorated (this could be removed to reveal the Christian name).

Cook born circa 1746, died 6 February 1788, aged 42.

DAVIS, Ann. Gold mourning ring, with bezel mounted with pearls (two missing), surrounded by black enamel inlay (largely worn away), and inset with a glazed panel enclosing a lock of hair. Ring shoulders decorated, and under the bezel engraved: Ann Davis, Ob.29 May. 1818. At.37. Inner diameter 17mm, worn.

Ann Davis born circa 1781, died 29 May 1818, aged 37.

EYRE, Sir James. Gold band, with black and white enamel inlay, named: SIR JAMES EYRE OB.6 JULY1799.AET.65. Hallmarked London, 1799, maker WH. Inner diameter 18.5 mm, in extremely fine condition.

Sir James Eyre, judge, baptized at Wells, Somerset, on 13 September 1734, the son of the Revd Thomas Eyre of Wells. In 1763 he was counsel for John Wilkes in the suit that established the illegality of general warrants (warrants for the arrest of un-named persons involved in an offence). He later (1787) became chief baron of the Court of Exchequer, and in 1793, chief justice of common pleas. He presided in 1794 over the famous state trials of members of the London Corresponding Society for alleged subversion of the government. He died on 6th July 1799, and, having no children, left the proceeds of his estate to his wife, Mary, his two surviving sisters, and his brother Dr Thomas Eyre. He was buried in Ruscombe parish church, Berkshire.

HEAD, T. Mourning brooch. An elongated oval gold brooch (max length 26mm) consisting of a glazed cover over woven hair, surrounded by cut garnets. On the reverse, a pin, and engraved wording: T Head Lost at Sea Jan: 1808 A’t34. In excellent condition.

T. Head born circa 1774, lost at sea January 1808, aged 34

HOWDON, John. Mourning brooch. An oblong gold brooch (max length 21mm) consisting of a glazed cover over woven hair, surrounded by a black enamel band and a border of mounted pearls. On the reverse, a pin, a suspension loop, and engraved wording: Jno.Howdon ob.18 Jany. 1828 At.70. In excellent condition.

John Howdon born circa 1758, died 18 January 1828, aged 70.

JESSON, Richard. Gold mourning ring, with a large bezel mounted with pearls surrounding a glazed panel enclosing a lock of hair. Engraved inside under the bezel: Rich.Jesson Obt.24^th.Feby.1803. Aet.25. Inner diameter 19mm, in very good condition, although the underside of the glazed panel has discoloured, causing the amber appearance, and the underside around the inscription has soldered borders (possibly the cause of the discolouration?).

Richard Jesson born circa 1778, died 24 February 1803, aged 25.

JOHNSTON, Jos. & Agnes. Gold scrolled mourning ring, mounted with five foil backed diamonds. The central diamond is at least half a carat. The outside of the scrolled shank has remains of black inlay with relief naming: JOS. JOHNSTON ……….1742 AE 38 and the inside engraved Agn. John[ston]……….1736 ae 66. Inner diameter 18.5mm, worn, especially the shank, but the diamond setting in very good order, their weight amounting to at least 1 carat. It comes in an antique maroon leather ring box.

Jos. Johnston born circa 1706, died 1742, aged 38 AND Agnes Johnston born circa 1671, died 1737, aged 66.

LEYBORNE, William. Gold mourning ring, with black enamel inlay, named: GOVr LEYBORNE – OB: 16 – APR: 1775 . AET: 39. Inner diameter 16.5mm, in very fine condition.

William Leyborne Leyborne was born about 1736 in Littlecote, Wiltshire, and in 1763 married Anne Popham, daughter of Edward and Rebecca Popham of Littlecote. Their portraits by Thomas Gainsborough (probably painted to celebrate their marriage) are in the collection of Bristol City Museum & Art Gallery. In 1771 Leyborne was appointed Governor General of Grenada, Dominica, St Vincent and Tobago, in which post he remained until his untimely death (probably of fever) on 16th April 1775. A monument to his memory was erected in Kingstown, St Vincent, and a memorial to their third son William, is found in St. Mary's Church, Chilton Foliat, Wiltshire.

MASON, Ann. Gold mourning band, (18.5mm), with black and white enamel inlay, named: ANN.MASON.OB:10.JAN.1806.AE:73. Hallmarked, London, 1805, maker IP. Inner diameter 18.5mm. In extremely fine condition.

Ann Mason born circa 1733, died 10 January 1806, aged 73, unmarried.

MOORHOUSE, James. Gold mourning ring, with bezel mounted with pearls surrounding a glazed panel enclosing a lock of hair, and the shoulders inlaid in black enamel with decorative motifs. Engraved inside under the bezel: James Moorhouse Obt. 22^nd May 1827. AET: 75. Hallmarked Birmingham, 1827, maker GH. Inner diameter 19mm, in very good condition except for the enamel worn from the rear of the ring.

James Moorhouse born circa 1752, died 22 May 1827, aged 75.

NEALE, Rev Samuel. Gold mourning swivel ring, the revolving bezel on one side inlaid in black enamel with the wording “SLEEPS IN JESUS”, and on the reverse is an empty glazed covered compartment. Engraved inside the ring: Revd. Saml. Neale A.B. ob. 31 Decr.1812 At.25. Inner diameter 20mm, in good condition, except for a small bit of black enamel chipped from the bezel. It comes with an antique ring box of Robinson & Co Ltd of Shrewsbury.

Rev. Samuel Neale AB., born circa 1787, died 31 December 1812, aged 25. Neale graduated from Queens’ College, Cambridge 1810, and was appointed to All Saints Church, Leicester.

PEEL, Lady Ellen. Gold mourning band, with black enamel inlay, named: LADY.PEEL.OB:28.DEC:1803.AE:38. Hallmarked London, 1803, maker TM. Inner diameter 18mm, in extremely fine condition, in antique red leather covered ring box.

Ellen Yates, born 1766, the daughter of William Yates, married 8th July 1783, Robert Peel (1750–1830), calico printer and politician. Robert had set up in 1772 what was to become a hugely successful calico making and printing business at Bury, in partnership with William Yates (Ellen's father) and his uncle Howarth. Ellen and Robert (created a baronet in 1800) had nine surviving children, six sons and three daughters, of whom Robert, was later to become prime minister, Sir Robert Peel (1788–1850). Robert junior was just 15 when his mother, Lady Peel, died on 28th December 1803, aged 38. Sir Robert senior, married secondly on 17 October 1805, Susanna, the daughter of Francis Clerke. (ODNB)

POLE, Dame Elizabeth. Gold mourning ring, with black enamel inlay, named: DAME . ELIZ: POLE . OB: 7 . APR: 1758 . AE:64. Inner diameter 17mm, in very fine condition.

Dame Elizabeth Pole, born circa 1694, died 7 April 1758, aged 64.

TETLOW, John & Edward. Mourning brooch. An oblong gold brooch (max length 22mm) consisting of a glazed cover over woven hair, surrounded by cut garnets. On the reverse, a pin, and engraved wording: Jno.Tetlow died July 25^th 1809 Agd 54Years. Edw. Tetlow died Sepr.27Aged 20 Years. In very fine condition. Click on photo for further views.

John Tetlow born circa 1755, died 25 July 1809, aged 54 AND Edward Tetlow died 27 September [1809?] aged 20.

TROYTE, Rev Richard. Gold mourning ring, with black enamel inlay, named: RD:DS:R:TROYTE:OBT:19:MAR:1730:AET:79. Inner diameter 16mm, in extremely fine condition.

Richard Troyte, born circa 1660, Rector of Silverton, Devon, married to Mary, and died 19 March 1730, aged 79.
WITH
TROYTE, Rev Thomas. Gold scroll decorated mourning ring, with black enamel inlay, named: THOS: TROYTE: OB:10.DEC:1750 AE:67. Inner diameter 16mm, in extremely fine condition.

Thomas Troyte, born at Silverton, Devon, circa 1683, the son of Richard and Mary Troyte, and died 10 December 1750, aged 67. He was the domestic chaplain of Killerton, Devon, and married Cicely Wrothe, daughter of Sir Thomas Wrothe and Mary Osbaldeston, 1729. He was buried at Silverton, Devon.

WALKER, Elizabeth & Thomas. Gold mourning ring, the band with scrolled and black enamel inlay (worn), worded “In Memory of”, and with a bezel set with turquoise and garnets. Engraved inside the band (worn) : Mrs. Eliz.th.Walker ……… 1832 aet 55 , and inside under the bezel engraved: Mr.Thos. Walker. Ob.3 Augt.1833 aet:59. Inner diameter 19mm. An attractive ring.

Elizabeth Walker born circa 1774, died 1832, aged 55 AND Thomas Walker born circa 1777, died 3 August 1833, aged 59.

WATERMAN, Henry. Gold band (19mm), with black and white enamel inlay, named: HENRY.WATERMAN.OB.26.JAN.1798.AE:58. Hallmarked, London, 1797, maker IP. Inner diameter 20mm. Enamel worn away in several places.

Henry Waterman born circa 1740, died 26 January 1798, aged 58.

WHITE, Henry Kirke. Mourning brooch. An oblong gold brooch (max length 24mm) consisting of a glazed cover over woven hair, surrounded by a border of mounted pearls. On the reverse, a pin, and engraved wording: Edith May Southey from the Mother of the late Henry Kirke White 1824 . In excellent condition.

Henry Kirke White (1785–1806), the poet and essayist, was born in 1785 in Nottingham, the third of the six children of John White, a butcher, and his wife, Mary (née Neville). White’s Clifton Grove, a Sketch in Verse, published in 1803, attracted favourable notice from the poet Robert Southey (1774–1843), with whom White entered a correspondence. After White's death, aged just 21 years, a large quantity of verse and prose was found among White's papers, and this material was given by his family to Robert Southey, who duly compiled The Remains of Henry Kirke White … with an Account of his Life (2 vols., 1807). Southey's eldest daughter was Edith May Southey (1804–1871), the recipient of this brooch. She married her father's close friend John Wood Warter in 1834. (ODNB). We may assume from the dedication that the hair belonged to Henry Kirke White.