ARNOT, William (1808–1875), Free Church of Scotland minister. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 4 sides, 8vo, Glasgow, 14 November [no year, but pre-1863]. Regarding a lecture he is to give in Carlisle, commenting “I know nobody there, but I love the Dean for lecturing against tobacco”.

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Arnot became associated with several nationwide evangelical causes, and lectured widely. In his autobiography he vividly recalled his first hangover, prompting no doubt his almost fanatical commitment to temperance. He probably refers in the letter to the “teetotal dean”, Francis Close, who was appointed dean of Carlisle in 1856. ODNB

Blair, John (d. 1782), Church of England clergyman and chronologist. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, 4to, Burton Coygles, Nr. Coultersworth, Lincs. September 18^th 1768. Regarding a book for Dr Robertson:  "I am very sorry I have looked up in my library my copy of Nostradamus’s History of Provence which I promised to lend Dr. Robertson if he wanted it, of which he was to have acquainted with me immediately upon his going to Scotland whether he could find it in any library in Edinburgh and as he did not write me for 6 weeks after he went down, I concluded he had got it there and so did not have it out – I wrote him of this about a fortnight ago in answer to letter I had from him about it – perhaps you may find it in some of the booksellers sales which you should buy and send down to him as I believe it will be of some service to him before he prints his Introductory Volume which I think he told me he was to revise and print last. I should be glad to know from time to time how the sale of my new Edition goes on & whether the Demand continues principally for the Small Paper in which case I must come to town a little the sooner in order to have a fresh number printed off."  Narrow strip of paper adhering to back edge indicating removal from an album. The letter comes with a separate sheet of paper with four 18th century printed journal cuttings relating to Blair.

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Blair was famous for his "Chronology and History of the World" first published in 1754 (leading to his election as an FRS), and a new and enlarged edition ("my new Edition") was published in 1768. The historian William Robertson spent ten years amassing his "History of the Reign of the Emperor Charles the Fifth" which appeared in three quarto volumes in 1769, and as this letter refers, he was trying to locate a copy of  Histoire et chronique de Provence by Caesar de Nostradamus.(Lyon 1614), in order to complete the introduction.

BRAND, John (1744–1806), antiquary and topographer. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 4to, 1 side plus integral blank (cut at the base, probably removing correspondent's name), Somerset Place, January 13th 1797, reporting that he has "obeyed your anonymous commands in offering your apology to the Society of Antiquaries of London, who ...... desire to return the unknown author their best thanks ........  my most respectful acknowledgements for the other copy presented to myself ....... which I have read with great avidity and from which I am proud to own that I have received very copious and most curious information relating to our divine poet and the state of our infant drama etc." 

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Brand is best known for his Observations on the popular antiquities of Great Britain first published in 1777. He was appointed Secretary to the Society of Antiquaries in 1784, and was annually re-elected until his death in 1806.

CONNECTION WITH DAVID GARRICK

BERTIE, Lord Robert (1721-1782). Small archive of five Chancery documents in the case between Lord Robert Bertie and his wife Mary Lady Bertie by Bills of Revivor and Supplement, against Wyndham et al, folio, 19 sides in total, with embossed tax stamps, variously dated during 1766. Amongst the list of plaintiffs in the document of 14th July 1766, are David Garrick and Benjamin Stillingfleet, plus a wealth of other names throughout the documents, including the families of Blacknell, Blundell, Bracebridge, Huddleston, Chetwynd, Dampier, Lindon, Perrott, Ryder, Standish, Wilmot, etc. PHOTO

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Lord Robert Bertie, son of Robert, first Duke of Ancaster, married the Rt Hon. Mary Baroness Dowager Raymond in 1762. He was Lord of the Bedchamber, colonel of the 7th Regiment of Foot (Royal Fusileers), and defended Admiral Byng during his trial in 1757. The impending marriage of Lord Bertie and Lady Mary Raymond, is touched upon in a letter from Horace Walpole to George Montagu, written in 1762 "We had a tempest of wind and snow for two hours beyond any thing I remember ..... Lady Raymond's house in Berkeley-square is totally unroofed; and Lord Robert Bertie, who is going to marry her, may descend into it like a Jupiter Pluvius".

 

BARBADOS LOCAL GOVERNMENT CRISIS 1709

Board of Trade and the Plantations. Letter signed Stamford, Ph.Meadows, J.Pulteney and Cha.Turner to the Earl of Sunderland, 2 sides folio plus integral blank, docketed on reverse, Whitehall, January 24th 1708/9, informing Sunderland that since their letter to him of the 21st they have received a letter from Mr Crow, Governor of Barbados “wherein he aquaints us that upon his Suspending Col. Sharp, Mr Walker, and Mr Beresford from the Council, there were then but 5 of the Council resident upon the Island for whch reason he had sworn in Mr Berwick and Mr Aynsworth, so that in that respect he has pursued his Instructions ……. by the same Packet we have received the Governor’s reasons for his Suspending the said three Councillors, which reason we shall consider …. had we received this Packet sooner we had not troubled you with our Last letter”. Signs of mounting to rear blank edge. An attractive document. PHOTO

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A letter from Sharp, Walker and Beresford, dated 2 November 1708 giving an account of their suspension came before the Board of Trade and the Plantations on January 19th 1708/9, and the following day the Earl of Stamford communicated another letter to the Board 'from Major John Pilgrim, one of the members of Councill in Barbadoes, to his lordship, of the 2nd of November, 1708, complaining of Mr. Crow's proceeding, which was read, and directions were given for preparing the draught of a letter to the Earl of Sunderland, relating to the suspension of Colonel Sharp, Mr. Walker, and Mr. Beresford, from the Council in that island’' [from ‘Journal, January 1709: Journal Book M’, Journals of the Board of Trade and Plantations] . The resulting letter to the Earl of Sunderland was signed on January 21st. The Board met again on January 24th to consider a letter received from Governor Crow dated 23 September, together with a packet of related documents in Crow’s defence, and as a result drew up this letter.

Mitford Crow (1669-1719) was appointed governor of Barbados in 1706, arriving on 8 May 1707 finding the island's government ‘in the last distraction, nothing but corruption and parties’. His high-handed treatment (and eventual suspension) of several of his councillors, his dismissal of several justices and militia officers, and his attempts to end the monopoly of a small group of barristers made him many enemies, who accused him of siding with factions, possessing an arbitrary attitude, and acting as the supreme legal authority of the island. The council of trade reprimanded him twice in 1708, and in July 1709 Queen Anne sent him a letter stating her resentment of his disrespect in disobeying her order to restore the councillors. In October 1709 he was ordered to return to England to defend himself before the privy council, and left Barbados in May 1710.(ODNB)

Charles Spencer, third earl of Sunderland (1675–1722), was appointed to the cabinet as Secretary of State for the Southern Department holding office from 1706-1710. The signatories of the letter were:

Thomas Grey, second earl of Stamford (1653/4–1720), conspirator and politician. Queen Anne dismissed Stamford from his offices in 1702, but he returned to serve as first lord of the Board of Trade from 1707 to June 1711.

Sir Philip Meadows (1626-1718), diplomat. Meadows was a skilled and experienced diplomat under Cromwell’s Protectorate. He became a commissioner for the Board of Trade in 1695 and remained in office to1715 in his eighties.

John Pulteney (d.1726), politician. MP for Hastings, commissioner of customs, and member of the Board of Trade from 1706 until 1710.

Sir Charles Turner (1666-1738), politician. Teller of the Exchequer, and Member of the Board of Trade from 1708 to 1712.

EARLY QUAKER LETTER

Buckrom, Abraham, Quaker. Autograph letter signed to Gilbert Heathcote, 2 closewritten sides on a folio sheet, 6^th  November (6^th day of the 9^th month) 1704. Written in quaker style, regarding various acquaintances and friends: "I was at Trentham when thy letter directed to Lord Gower so called, was delivered to him ......... Humphry often falls off from his steadfastness by the power of ale. Robert Ashbury has laid aside his earthly Tabernacle and has gone to the deceased friends. They of Hammers End and Ford Green salute thee. Mary Brindly was powerful the last first day and yet her spirit begins to wax faint by long labour. Her daughter Hannah is still with us and a precious vessel. Some months ago her feet slipped and she fell upon the bed of unlawfull love; yet it was with a friend, and his warm zeal overcame her, and she was not able to resist the weapons of his warfare ......... Melchizedeih Thonman and Isabel Hatten are gone from us: they are seduced by this present world ......... I wish our friends would get George Fox’s will translated into the Algonekin language if possible, for it would be good use to the Iroquests and Huons and further their conversation and might bring in some others of these barbarous nations". At the foot of the letter: "Directed to our Friend Gilbert Heatcote at ye Duke of Rutland's so called at his fair Prospect called Bever Castle". Fragile paper, the fold lines ( 3 horizontal and 1 vertical) split, with unsightly paper repairs.

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An extraordinary letter, from internal evidence, mainly relating to people and places in north Staffordshire. The letter is directed to Gilbert Heathcote at Belvoir (Bever) Castle, the seat of  John Manners, first duke of Rutland (1638–1711).  The letter also refers to Lord Gower - John Leveson-Gower, first Baron Gower (1675–1709), who had married Catherine, the daughter of the duke of Rutland.

 

Burdett-Coutts, Angela Georgina  (1814–1906), philanthropist. Autograph letter signed to Mr. Dalton, 3 sides, 16mo, Stratton St., May 22 1871. Regarding the Queen's intention to confer a peerage upon her : "I was very sensible of your sincere but friendly feelings on hearing the Queen’s intention to confer a Peerage and I know the testimonial thus written [?] will link my title with the heredity [?] endorsed to me by long association & the ever ready and comforting kindness of my neighbours amongst whom I hope very shortly to find myself "

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A close friend of Dickens and Wellington, Angela Burdett-Coutts spent much of her life distributing her fortune to good causes and projects, in which she maintained a deep interest. The good work that she achieved as a philanthropist was acknowledged when, on 19 June 1871, she became the first woman to be raised to the peerage in her own right since Anne Boleyn, becoming Baroness Burdett-Coutts of Highgate and Brookfield, Middlesex.

Burke, John (1786–1848), author and genealogist. Autograph letter, signature cut out, to Sir Samuel Edgerton-Brydges at Geneva. 4 sides, 4to, with integral franked address panel, New Burlington St, 8^th March 1830. Regarding genealogy, and news of state and literary matters. "I am proceeding with the Extinct Peerage and hope to have it ready for the press within a few months ...... In reference to the last edition of my Peerage and Baronetage, I must throw myself entirely upon your mercy, for I am quite aware that it falls infinitely short of my sting like perfection ...... I shall feel myself much benefited by your judicious suggestions, and I beg that your observations may be free, for I have none of the irritability of authorship about me, and I court criticism because I am anxious to profit by it ...... In Ireland Lord George Beresford has just been returned for the County of Waterford upon the Catholic interest, in opposition to a Catholic candidate ....... Moore’s Byron is the only work of consequence which has appeared ........ The genius of a lyric poet is seldom of that nervous character required to develop the deeds of a great mind or of a great nation: and Moore’s Sheridan too clearly evinced how little he was qualified for this species of writing." The cut signature affects 3 lines of text on the reverse side, and a small piece of paper has been detached by the broken seal.

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Burke is noted for his "General and Heraldic Dictionary of the Peerage and Baronetage of the United Kingdom" first published in 1826, and a series of other classic works, many prepared with his son. In the letter he refers to the 3^rd edition of 1830, and to his forthcoming "General and Heraldic Dictionary of the Peerages of England, Ireland and Scotland, Extinct, Dormant and in Abeyance", which was published in 1831. His correspondent Sir Samuel Edgerton-Brydges (1762-1837), was an author, literary editor and genealogist, who from 1818 resided on the European mainland. Something of an eccentric, he was known to Jane Austen, whose brother James had courted Brydges' younger sister. Sir Samuel and Jane had little respect for one another, and she said of one of his novels “Never did any book carry more internal evidence of its author.”

 

RELATIONS OF SIR RICHARD BURTON

BURTON, Catherine née BAXTER (c1725-1782). Autograph letter signed to her brother Robert Baxter Esq, Furnival’s Inn, London, 4to, 2 sides (portion of blank second leaf missing) with seal and Bishop marks, Tuam [Co. Galway] August 16 1776, admonishing her brother for not having heard from him or her nephew  "we have never had a letter from any of you or the Family at Atherstone a long time. Mr Burton & I are very uneasy & take it very ill, it is 8 or 9 months since we had the favour of a letter from any of our Relations.  Sure you have forgot we are in the land of the living.  I sopose you thought we was numberd with the Dead & their was an end of us". On local matters she reports that "the Arch Bishop has been hear 5 weeks he has shone us every civility in his power & has given us the most affect & Frendly invitation to stay in his palace till our new House is Dry & fit for me to live in ...... Dean Ryder is to be in Ireland before the 29 of September Captain Dobs being chose the chief magistrate at Carrackfergus ...." and says that "Mr. Burton will be vastly obliged to you to order 3 Hogsheads of porter for him this is the time of the year for the vessels to come from London to Galway".

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Catherine Baxter of Atherstone, Warwickshire married in 1763 Edmund Burton (1737-1817), curate of Toddingham, Bedfordshire. In the late 1760s Catherine, Edmund and his brother Edward moved to the west of Ireland, where Edmund was made curate of Kiltullagh Parish, which was in the patronage of Catherine's uncle John Ryder (of Nuneaton, Warwickshire), the archbishop of Tuam, Co Galway. In 1771 Edmund became archdeacon of St Mary's Cathedral, Tuam, a position he held until 1805. John Ryder died in 1775, and the archbishop was replaced by Dr Browne. The Burtons remained residents in the archbishop's Palace until their new house was completed in 1782. Catherin'e brother-in-law Edward Burton became vicar of Annaghdown, and it was his son Joseph Netterville Burton who was the father of the explorer Sir Richard Burton - past historians incorrectly cited Edmund as Sir Richard Burton's grandfather (in fact his great-uncle).

Caledon,  Du Pre Alexander, second earl of (1777–1839), politician and colonial administrator. Autograph letter (third person) signed to Mr.Harrison, 2 sides, 8vo, St. James’ Square, 21^st February 1823. Returning papers on the state of slavery at the Cape of Good Hope. "He is not aware of being able to offer the Committee any information of assistance but he can not avoid feeling some distrust of Mr. Parker as he knows that there is a strong impression on his part that he has been ill used by the individual to whom he alludes and this has evidently had its influence in the representation that has been made." Second page has an old glue line, indicating removal from an album.

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Caledon obtained a seat in the House of Lords in 1804 as one of the twenty-eight Irish representative peers. He was successful in 1806 in his application to the Prime Minister in obtaining the post of Governor of Cape Colony, which he occupied until 1811, and where he introduced controversial measures in attempts to pacify relations between colonists and native black Africans. He afterwards returned to his seat in Westminster. Despite the Slave Trade Act of 1807, slaves continued to be held, although were not sold within the British Empire. The abolitionist movement became active again in the 1820s, leading to the foundation of the Anti-Slavery Society in 1827, and the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, outlawing all slavery in the British Colonies.

CAMPBELL, Hugh Hume, third earl of Marchmont (1708–1794), politician. Autograph letter signed 'Marchmont' to an unnamed correspondent, 1 side 4to, London 24 Decr 1777, explaining that a sever illness has kept him in London all summer,  "I have heard nothing from Mr. Cockburn concerning your pedigree .............. Sir Geo. Home is a Leiutenant in a man of war in America.  Others may entertain jealousies, but Mr. Cockburn ought to inform you how things stand.  I believe whatever pedigree may be made nothing lucrative can follow after so long a time in neglect". Light browning to areas of text, and the reverse with old mounting marks.

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Marchmont was one of the leading agricultural improvers of his time, who devoted considerable energies in developing his Berwickshire estates. He was widely read, an expert on horsemanship, and was an intimate of Alexander Pope and Sarah, duchess of Marlborough (ODNB).

Capell, Arthur, 6^th earl of Essex (1803-1892). Autograph letter signed [to Rev.G.Fyler Townsend], 6 sides, on 16mo and 8vo sheets, 23 Chesham Place, March 1^st 1874. Commenting upon a proof copy of "The siege of Colchester" sent to him, "I do not think I have any documents relating to Lord Capell which could be of much value to you ....... What you state relating to the carrying away from Lord Hadham Lord Capell’s son and offering him him in exchange for a Parliamentary Prisoner, recalls to mind an anecdote I read years ago when I was a boy to the effect that Ireton had caused the boy to be placed in his lines at the time of a heavy cannonade in Colchester sending a message to Lord Capell to warn him that if he continued the cannonade he would endanger the life of his son. Lord C’s reply was “that much as he owed to his son he owed more to his King and Country”..... It made a very deep impression on my mind having as a boy been always taught to admire him".

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The author of "The Siege of Colchester, or, an event of the Civil War , AD 1648" was the Rev. G. Fyler Townsend, whose book was published by SPCK in 1874. The 6th earl's ancestor, Arthur Capel, first Baron Capel of Hadham (1604–1649), was a royalist army officer and politician, who resisted the parliamentarian army in the siege of Colchester in 1648, but was finally captured and beheaded in 1649.

Chamberlayne, John (1666-1723) translator and miscellaneous author. Autograph letter signed to Wm Clutterbuck Esq, "at Frampton on Severn in Gloucestershire, by shrowd-bag", 1 side, 8vo, with integral address panel on second leaf. Petty France, 6th October 1709. "Dear Cozen, I have received your kind letter and have made my cozen Upton sensible how good a steward you have been for her, insomuch that she returns you her hearty thanks and begs you to cause two new lenses to be drawn in such a manner as you and Hawkins can agree". With small armorial seal, and London Bishop mark (OC/6).

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William Clutterbuck was a cousin of Chamberlayne, whose families were connected through marriages of the daughters of Thomas Fream of Frampton, Gloucstershire. A marble monument to William Clutterbuck (who died 1727) is recorded in the Church of St Mary, Frampton-on-Severn. The rectory of Frampton had passed to John Chamberlayne by 1714. Letters by Chamberlayne are scarce, and this one is additionally interesting for its postal history, having been carried by "shrowd-bag".

Channing, William Ellery. (1780-1842) American Unitarian theologian. Autograph letter signed to The Reverend Dr. Inckerman, Boston, 2 sides with integral address panel, 4to, Newport, September 1^st 1836. Regarding the publication of his sermon : "I received from Dickinson the publisher of my sermon, a copy of which there were two or three errata. I should be glad that the copies to be sent abroad may be corrected in these particulars, as an addition may be published from some of them. Can you see this done – I gave Miss Peabody a list of foreign friends to whom copies were to be sent, which is in Dickinson’s hands - can your brother Gustavas see to the sending of the packet". Paper rather soiled on edges.

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Channing was born in Newport, Rhode Island, graduated from Harvard in 1798, and became pastor of the Federal Street Congregational Church in Boston 1803. He was the foremost Unitarian preacher in the United States in the early 19th century. Channing's writings were widely influential, and covered important social  topics including slavery, war, labour problems, and education.

THE STANHOPE/SUNDERLAND MINISTRY 1717

CRAGGS, James, the younger (1686–1721), diplomatist and politician. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, small 4to, Thursday April 11th 1717, regarding a position as Commissioner in the Treasury: "The very extraordinary manner in wch so many of ye King’s servants have abandoned his service make it necessary for him to employ men of ye best characters & principles he can meet wth. As he can never choose better than in pitching upon you & yt he intends to put Mr Stanhope at ye head of ye Treasury, I am commissioned to offer you a place in ye new patent". He expresses the hope that "ye distress of affairs from ye divisions among us will rather incite than discourage you from entering into ye M’s service, since no necessity can make him think of changing those measures wch have hitherto been agreeable to ye Whigs" and begs his correspondent "to look on this as a private letter as a mark of my real value for you & yt you would show it to nobody." Neat paper repairs to vertical creases on reverse.

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James Craggs the younger was the son of the politician and government official James Craggs (bap. 1657, d. 1721). In 1713 he became member of parliament for Tregony, and on 15th April 1717 Secretary of State at War (2 days after this letter was written). The letter is associated with critical changes in the ministry which George I found necessary having a cabinet deeply divided on foreign policy, with Robert Walpole (1676–1745) and Lord Townsend (1674–1738) on one side, and James Stanhope (1673–1721) and Lord Sunderland (1675–1722) on the other. Townshend occupied the post of Northern Secretary, but was forced at the end of 1716 to give this up for the lesser appointment of Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Townshend was dismissed from the latter post on 9th April 1717 upon voting against the Mutiny Bill, following which Robert Walpole resigned as First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer on 10th April 1717. This led to the formation of a new cabinet created on 15th April 1717, dominated by Stanhope who replaced Walpole, and Sunderland who succeeded Townshend as secretary of state for the north. The present letter sought to fill a Treasury Commissioner post under Stanhope, of which the new appointees were the politicians John Wallop (1690–1762), George Baillie, George (1664–1738), and Thomas Micklethwaite (1678-1718), one of whom is likely to be Craggs' correspondent. (see ODNB)

Crockford, William (bap. 1776, d. 1844), gambling club proprietor. Autograph letter (third person) signed to "The Editor of The Globe and Traveller", 1 side plus integral blank (part missing) with address panel, 8vo, St. James’ Club, St. James’ Street, 16th February 1824. Asking the Editor to redirect his journals "Mr. Crockford will thank the editor of The Globe and Traveller to send every evening three of his journals, viz 2 to his clubhouse in St. James’ Street, and 1 to his house at Newmarket and the cause the former to be delivered as early as possibly convenient." Narrow strip of paper adhering to back edge of integral blank indicating removal from an album page, and small hole through the centre of both leaves.

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Crockford’s success at gambling quickly made him rich, and as his status rose in London, he migrated westward where he frequented fashionable dining and gambling clubs. He extended his property in St James's Street taking over four houses in a row, and commissioned the Wyatts in 1826 to build a ‘palace of gambling’. In his early days, Crockford was regularly charged with keeping a common gambling-house, but by slipping sufficient money into the right hands, he avoided having to make a court appearance, which would probably have led to imprisonment or even transportation. At Newmarket, Crockford acquired Panton House, in the High Street, with 50 acres of ground, where he stayed during the racing season. ODNB

(DODINGTON) George Bubb, Baron Melcombe (1690/91–1762), politician and diarist. Autograph letter signed to the Honble. Henry Worsley Esqr., 3 sides, 4to, Madrid, 7^th August, 1716. Apologising that he has not answered Worsley’s letter of 23^rd June, explaining “I was desirous to stay til I could give you an account of the entire conclusion of the Assiento, which at length is happily settled; we changed the ratifications last week” . Bubb also reports “The King landed in Holland the 20^th past; Mr. Methuen his secretary, and our correspondent and the Prince is left sole Regent; this with the Duke of Argyle’s been out of everything, is the chief news from England”, and that “At this Court, since the dismission of the Cardinal, no new Minister has been named, but I hope affairs will be put into very good hands; the King refused to see Mon. de Lowville (who was formerly a favourite), that came post from France with a secret commission, and ordered him to have his Dominions immediately; to this last he answered that he could not obey it without the King, his master’s leave (having a public character), to which end he despatched a courier to France.” Second leaf gummed to an album page, with the fold between the leaves repaired.

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George Bubb served as envoy at Madrid between 1715-1717, an appointment probably offered him thanks to the influence of his uncle George Dodington. Here he represented Britain's commercial interests and renegotiated several vital agreements with the Spanish court. The Assiento was a treaty between England and Spain by which the latter power granted to the English South Sea Company, for thirty years, the right of supplying the Spanish colonies in America with negro slaves, at the rate of 4800 annually. The Assiento contract was explained and confirmed by a convention between England and Spain in 1716.

His correspondent Henry Worsley (1675-1741) was envoy at the Court of Portugal (1714-21) and governor of Barbados (1721-31).

Eardley [formerly Smith], Sir Culling, third baronet (1805–1863), religious campaigner. Autograph letter signed to Rev W. Bevan", 4 sides, 4to, including integral address panel, on a sheet of paper part printed, entitled "Opinions of Public Men on National Support to Roman Catholic Schools" (with 5 quoted paragraphs in small print), Aix-les-Bains, France, August 16^th 1847. Letting Bevan know about his movements, and discussing church affairs on the Continent and in Britain. "You have my warmest and most affectionate wishes for your success in your new post. I think I don’t exaggerate when I say that there is none in Europe more likely to be influential in the destinies of the Church. With His divine blessings and wise councils I believe you may be the means of reforming Christendom. One great thing needed is that the the Continent should be helped to help itself." Integral address panel with interesting postal marks. Strip of old gummed paper on reverse edge, indicating removal from an album.

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After a short period in politics, Eardley found his calling as a lay leader of interdenominational and international evangelicalism. His conviction that all true Christians should be united led him in 1845–6 to be a prime mover in the foundation of the Evangelical Alliance, becoming chairman of its council.

ELDON, John Scott, second earl (1805-1854) grandson of Lord Chancellor Eldon (1751–1838). Autograph letter signed to Dr.Bliss, Oxford,  4to, 3 sides plus address panel (with interesting postal marks) and seal, Shirley, Croydon, March 18th 1839. Seeking Dr Bliss's advice on the office of "High Steward" conferred to his grandfather by Oxford University, for his monument and publication of his life. "I am not a little surprised to find that the Office commonly called that of “High Steward” of the University of Oxford is strictly “Steward” .......... I trouble you with these observations to enquire whether the name of the office has been altered in there modern days .......... Had Lord Eldon .. the right of voting as a Doctor (I know he was a Master also), & is this what is called a Degree by diploma or not". Small piece of paper cut from edge to open seal, and remains of paper adhering to back edge indicating removal from an album page.  PHOTO

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The monument of Lord Chancellor Eldon which his grandson refers to was designed by Sir Francis Chantrey and erected in 1839 at Kingston Chapel, Corfe Castle, Dorset. Dr Philip Bliss (1787–1857), antiquary and book collector, was registrar of Oxford university, and keeper of the archives, "a post in which his penchant for accumulation seems to have impeded administrative efficiency" (ODNB).

ELLENBOROUGH, Edward Law, first earl of (1790–1871), politician and governor-general of India. Autograph letter signed, to Major General Sir Philip M. Melville, 2 sides, 8vo, Southam Delabere, Cheltenham, January 4th 1866. Thanking him for his "Memorials from the Officers of the Indian Army", adding "There is another subject which ought to occupy the -?- attention of the Govr. that of facilitating and inducing the transfer of officers from the Queen’s to the Indian Service this a matter of vital importance." Narrow strip of paper adhering to reverse edge indicating removal from an album page

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Prior to the Indian Mutiny of 1857, Ellenborough had urged Canning not to reduce the strength of European troops in India, which were being reduced to support the Crimea campaign. He sacrificed his own post in government in urging restraint after the Mutiny, but it paid off in the passing of a royal proclamation of November 1858, with its offer of a wide-ranging amnesty and promises to respect the rights and beliefs of Indians.

ELPHINSTONE [née Thrale], Hester Maria, Viscountess Keith (1764–1857), protégée of Samuel Johnson. Autograph letter in third person to Mr. Harrison, Harley St, June 6 [no year], 1 side with integral blank sheet (with black mourning edge), requesting that “he will accept her best thanks for his very kind Present of an old Book which formerly belonged to her certainly but to which she could have no Claim”. Reverse of last blank leaf with adhering paper from an album.

Dr Johnson, a friend of the family from 1765, called Hester ‘Queeney’, wrote childish rhymes for her, played horses with her, wrote to her, and directed her education. Fanny Burney described her as ‘cold and reserved, though full of knowledge and intelligence’. Determined to marry a lord, Hester Thrale declined a proposal of marriage from the poet Samuel Rogers, and on 10 January 1808, in London, she married Admiral George Keith Elphinstone, Baron Keith (1746–1823), who had then been a widower some years. They acquired the Harley Street, London, address in December 1809. ODNB

 

ERSKINE, Lady Anne Agnes (1739–1804), friend and trustee of Selina, countess of Huntingdon. Autograph letter signed to Henry [Erskine], 2 sides, 4to, St Andrew’s March 18^th 1760, with integral address panel, and remains of seal, addressed to Miss Cummyng, At Mrs. Bucknay’s house in Gosfort [?] Close, Lawn Market, Edinburgh. Explaining that Henry’s last letter was delayed, and that she had written “to you and sent inclosed a letter Mama received from Mr. Stewart which I hope you got and I likewise wrote to Mr. Stewart” , and of her other brothers “I shall be glad to hear how your Brother does. Cardross writes that he is greatly delighted with your flower and fly”. A few areas of damage from the opened seal, and with remains of a mounting strip on the reverse. With the letter is an engraved portrait of Lady Anne Erskine published by R.Baynes 1824.

SOLD

Anne’s brothers were Henry Erskine (to whom the letter is written), later lord advocate of Scotland and politician; David Steuart Erskine (later eleventh earl); and Thomas Erskine (Lord Cardross & Auchterhouse) who became the lord chancellor. The family moved to St Andrews in 1760, and here Henry and Thomas were taught Latin by Richard Dick, later a professor of history in the university. Henry also seems to have attended classes in natural philosophy, mathematics, and English, although there is no evidence that he was matriculated at St Andrews University. ODNB

 

Evans, Sir John (1823–1908), archaeologist, numismatist, and paper manufacturer. Autograph letter signed to John Brent, Esq., F.S.A., 3 sides, 8vo, Nash Mills, Hemel Hempsted, November 27th 1870. Discussing archaeological finds: "The sketch you send looks much like that of a long flake, but there are some flints which have a way of splitting up naturally with prismatic forms much like flakes – they can however readily be distinguished from them by counting the “bulbs of percussion......... I have met with a few Saxon things lately from Cambridgeshire, one of them a flat circular brooch of silver set with four small gold studs each containing a carbuncle ”. Letter with folds, and remains of an old album page still pasted to blank reverse leaf..

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Throughout a successful business career Evans retained a thirst for knowledge and an insatiable desire to uncover the secrets of the past. His studies became focused on discovering the traces of prehistoric man both on the continent and in the British Isles. His correspondent is John Brent (1808–1882), antiquary and author, who lived in Canterbury, and conducted much archaeological work in Kent.

THE SIERRA LEONE COMPANY 1792

FARQUHARSON, Greg. Autograph letter signed to Thomas Carr Esq, at Eshott by Morpeth, 4to, 2 sides with integral leaf bearing address panel, postmarks and broken seal (which has torn away a small blank area), London 24th January 1792, expressing concerns at not having heard from him; informing him of plans to go to America on important personal business, and with news of possible employment “The Sierra Leone company about to settle on the Coast of Africa and I, are on some terms for me to go out Governour to that place – though I confess I am rather at a loss to know how to act ……. The accounts of the fertility of its soil are very favourable …… Were I to go – I have reason to believe – I would get 2 Companies of Soldiers from the Government ….”, together with a smaller sheet of paper, in another hand, headed Hatton Garden 3^rd March [17]92, bearing a post script “… pray wd it not be advisable the Bill shd be dismissed without costs as it may be done by consent at the Expence of 2 Guineas”, docketed “3 March 92 Copy of Thos. Meggison’s Letter (Nb. The original amongst the abn. Papers for the Slave Trade)”.

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The Sierra Leone Company was formed to find settlers for the West African country of Sierra Leone. With the Company’s backing the abolitionist John Clarkson was appointed to organize the resettlement of ex-slaves who had initially been settled in Nova Scotia after the American Revolutionary War. Fifteen ships left for Sierra Leone on 15 Jan 1792 carrying 1190 free Black emigrants together with Clarkson, who upon arriving at the colony learnt he had been appointed as the new governor of the newly founded Freetown.

Thomas Carr resided at Eshott Hall, Morpeth, Northumberland, for long the ancient seat of the Carr family. He had occupied the position of High Sheriff of the county in 1778, but in 1792 the Carr dynasty collapsed, when Thomas Carr suffered financial ruin.

Thomas Meggison of Hatton Garden was an eminent London solicitor.

Godolphin, Francis, second earl of Godolphin (1678–1766), politician and officer of the royal household.  Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, 4to, Baylies near Windsor, June 17th 1756. Commenting upon the opera in London and social matters. "..... you may have heard of her formerly as daughter of Ld Bingley and wife to Mr. George Fox who has changed his name to Lane, she is a great patroness of Signor de Giardini and has procured him the large Opera House in the Hay Market, in the room of Signor Vanneschi who proposes having an opera in some other place, and they are both endeavouring to get as many subscriptions as they can in hopes of ruining each other......... Ld. Berkeley is very well and enjoying his summer retreat in his own Square in London ".

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Harriet Benson, daughter of Robert Benson, Baron Bingley & Lady Elizabeth Finch, married George Fox-Lane, bringing him estates worth £100,000.

 

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.

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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.

Gordon [née Brodie], Elizabeth, duchess of Gordon (1794–1864), evangelical patron. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, on black edged paper, 3 sides, 8vo, Huntly Lodge, November 19th 1849. Regarding church matters, and her inability to visit Edinburgh schools because of illness. "I have written to the Duke of Hamilton & Ld. Breadalbane regarding Miss Johnstone’s appts. but as I have very little acquaintance with those Lords, or indeed with any persons in power now, I know not what influence my letters may have". With folds, and a thin stained edge on the reverse where removed from an album. Comes with an engraved portrait of the duchess. PHOTO

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Elizabeth became duchess of Gordon in 1827, and was to devote herself to the furtherance of evangelical Christianity, especially after her husband's death in 1836. Although an Episcopalian, she sympathized with the opponents of patronage, and after considerable heart searching in 1846 she joined the Free Church of Scotland, convinced that the established church had wrongly surrendered its disciplinary powers to the state.
 

ANECDOTES OF THE GORGES FAMILY 1785

GORGES family. Bound manuscript entitled "Anecdotes of the GORGES family collected August 3rd 1785, by Henry Gorges Dobyns Yate, at the request of Richard Gorges Esq. Representative of the English Branch of that ancient House", covering the history of the Gorges family from medieval times to the 17th century. It comprises 134 leaves of which 65 sides have dense manuscript entries in a neat hand, the rest blank, bound in late 18th century full tree calf, rebacked (preserving original label), all edges gilt, with new end-papers, measuring 4 x 6.5 inches. A note in a different hand at the foot of the last MSS page cites an article of 1904 and is signed F.H.Allen. PHOTO

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These Anecdotes were collected by Henry Gorges Dobyns Yate (1753-1812), Prebend of Hereford, though whether this manuscript is in his hand is uncertain. A copied version of this manuscript is in the collection of the Alderman Memorial Library, University of Virginia, bearing notes inside the cover reading "A copy of a manuscript book, formerly in the possession of the late Reverend J.T. Allen, Vicar of Stradbrooke, Suffolk, entitled Anecdotes of the Gorges Family ........... The pedigree is utterly wrong in many places - as I proved to Mr. Allen- [F]H. ............... This little note book contains some rather inflated remarks - R[aymond] G[orges]." The present MSS is almost certainly the copy that belonged to Rev. John Taylor Allen (1784-1861), which passed to his son the Rev. Francis Hordern Allen (1847-1908).

GOWER, Elizabeth Leveson- [née Lady Elizabeth Sutherland], duchess of Sutherland and suo jure countess of Sutherland (1765–1839), landowner. Autograph letter signed to “My Dear Lord” , 4 sides, small 8vo, Sunday morning, 1807, thanking her correspondent for sending some etchings which “are an encitement to me to continue a work which is at present a great amusement to me, in the hope of being able to make some return to you in kind, though the subjects of mine are of a very different nature, being portraits of places in Orkney & in the north of Scotland generally devoid of trees & which will besides the other disadvantages under which they suffer have the additional one, of being executed by a far less masterly hand. Indeed their only merit will be that of singularity, as the places they represent have hitherto been undescribed by any pencil whatever & can have no value except what curiosity may give to them from the remote situation & difficulty of approaching the scenes they attempt to represent”. Marks on rear edge indicating removal from an album, and a discrete repair to the folded paper.

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Lady Sutherland accompanied her husband to Paris at the height of the French Revolution, where she wrote descriptions of the political turbulence, and sent clothing to the imprisoned Marie Antoinette, an act reputed to be the last gesture of kindness shown to the doomed queen. She became a leading hostess in London, where she gave sumptuous dinners attended by royalty, aristocrats, and statesmen from Britain and abroad. She owned huge estates in Scotland, and in actively supporting the new philosophy of modernization and improvement became the target of great hatred in the northern highlands. She endeavoured to counteract the adverse publicity surrounding the highland clearances, but with little success.

Lady Sutherland spent much of her time raising her four children, sketching (she was a gifted watercolourist, and was especially accomplished in her landscapes of the Sutherland coast and of Dunrobin Castle), corresponding with Sir Walter Scott, and consuming snuff. ODNB

 

Greville [née Macartney], Frances (1727?–1789), poet. Autograph letter, missing last page, 4 sides, 4to, to "My Lord" [George Townsend, Viceroy of Ireland], Wilbury, August 26th 1771. A long (and in part, flirtaceous) letter touching upon friends, family and politics, etc "I received your letter with infinite pleasure but since I can't cure you of Philandering me I wish I could at least cure myself of the strong propensity I have to think you mean to laugh a little at your humble servant, my vanity would find it's account in such a want of modesty, for if flattery is palatable even from different persons how grateful must it be from those on whose opinion one sets a high value"............"As to what you ask concerning Lord S[uffolk ?]. I am told he makes only two Members and his secretary Mr. W. has a seat which he bought. I did hear, but with what truth I know not, that Lord N[orth]. seemed to incline most to that set of people that belonged to G. G. [George Grenville?] I do not believe that ever was a syllable of truth in any of the reports of this going out and this I am sure of from people very nearly connected with him; that he was remarkably satisfied his M's favour and protection even at a time when some who should have known much better looked upon him as on the eve of being dismissed" .......... "Everyone here is astonished at your success, and I think my Lord since you have so good a hand at these matters you had better come over to help us, but I don't believe you wish, therefore I shall, one of these days go and claim your promise of visiting the lake of Kilarney." ......... "Before I conclude I must remind you of the obligation you said you would confer on me in the person of my unfortunate cousin; when you can without inconvenience to your own plans grant him the little thing I requested you will make a brave and worthy man very happy". Despite the missing end of this letter, the opening of the last paragraph suggests that most of the matters are dealt with. Split along fold. PHOTO

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Probably born in Ireland, the daughter of James Macartney (1692–1770), Irish MP, and Catherine Coote (d. 1731), Frances Macartney was beautiful, spirited, and celebrated for her clever verses. In 1747 she met the popular socialite and man of fashion Fulke Greville (1717–1806), of Wilbury in Wiltshire, who she eloped with and married. The writer Fanny Burney described her as ‘pedantic, sarcastic, and supercilious’, but to the few who possessed her favour, ‘she was a treasure of ideas and of variety’. Her husband gambled away his fortune, and following the death of their son Robert in 1768, he returned to England from his diplomatic post in Munich, in a state of collapse, and ruin ensued in 1782, when Wilbury was sold. Fances took refuge in Ireland, and by 1788 a legal separation was effected. ODNB

GREY, Charles (1804–1870), army officer and courtier. Autograph letter in third person, 1 side, 8vo,Windsor Castle, Oct 17^th 1851, on black edged mourning paper, “Colonel Grey has received the Command of His Royal Highness Prince Albert to return the Collection of Ceylon precious stones sent for his inspection by Mr. Purdue, with the expression of His Royal Highness’ best thanks”.

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Grey was an equerry to the queen from 1837 to 1867, and private secretary to Prince Albert from 1849 to 1861. After Albert's death he became private secretary to Queen Victoria (ODNB). This letter was written two days after the Great Exhibition closed to the public, a project masterminded by Prince Albert, and it quite possible that the gem collection referred to might have some connection through one of the exhibitors.

GREY, Sir George (1812–1898), colonial governor and premier of New Zealand. Autograph letter signed to the Rev.V.Hadley, 2 sides plus integral blank, 8vo, Oct 28^th 1859, Howchin’s Hotel, 57 & 58. St. James’s Street, London, in response to his “letter of the 25^th on behalf of the Cambridge Committee of the Oxford and Cambridge Mission to Central Africa, I will to the best of my ability second the motion a copy of which you have transmitted to me, at the meeting which is to be held at Cambridge upon Tuesday next”. Strip of adhering paper on rear edge indicating removal from an album.

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In 1854 Grey became governor of Cape Colony and high commissioner for South Africa, but in 1859, when Grey promoted a South African federation, incorporating the Afrikaner republics of Orange Free State and the Transvaal, London had to sack him to get its way. A change of government led to his immediate reinstatement. On the voyage back from England to South Africa in 1860, his wife Eliza ‘formed a romantic attachment’ to the ship's commander, Admiral Sir Henry Keppel. Grey discovered it, threatened to ‘either commit suicide or murder his wife’ and had her put ashore at Rio de Janeiro. Grey swore Keppel to secrecy and did not speak to Eliza again for thirty-six years. He spent another year in South Africa, embittered and increasingly reserved, then volunteered to be posted to New Zealand, where war with the Taranaki Maori had broken out in 1860. ODNB

Grey, Henry George, third Earl Grey (1802–1894), politician. Autograph letter signed to George Eden, earl of Auckland, 3 sides, 8vo, Howich, September 25th, 1847.  Enclosing letters from the Duke of Wellington (not present) regarding the defence of Alderney, and discussing the appointment of Knight Commanders of the Bath. "Sending 5000 men to Alderney is of course altogether out of the question, but I agree with the Duke that it is a point to be carefully looked to, and that our neighbours are not for a moment to be trusted - the defence of this port must I think be trusted for the present at least almost entirely to you." Damage to inner edge of second leaf around fold, from removal from an album.

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In 1846, Grey was made colonial, and Auckland was appointed first lord of the Admiralty. The Alderney affair related to a Government initiative to fortify the Channel ports to create "harbours of refuge" to deter attacks from the French. In Alderney a massive defence programme started in 1846 and continued to 1870. The scale of the work brought considerable prosperity for the island.

EARLY YEARS OF THE OLD VIC THEATRE

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".

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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.
 

SOUTH SEA HOUSE

HARVEY of ROLLS PARK, CHIGWELL. Autograph letter signed by Eliab Harvey to his mother [Mary], 4 sides, 4to, London January 22nd, 1742/3. A lengthy and detailed letter regarding financial affairs connected with his late father's estate, including their interests and work being undertaken in South Sea House: "The Gentleman that is about the new Apartment happened to be at the South Sea House at the same time that I was, with a workman to make an estimate of what is to be done with the apartment ........ The South Sea House of Sir John Chapman’s  £350:0:0 ........ I thought the house where Mr. De Gols lived had been included in the 360 p.ann but find that the South Sea Company paid £40 p.ann for that besides, now let (as appears by Peacocks rental) to Mr. Astley at £75 p.ann so that is not included in your Jointure".

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Eliab Harvey was the son of William Harvey (1689-1742) and his wife Mary née Williamson, of Rolls Park, Chigwell, Essex (a group portrait by Sir Godfrey Kneller of the family, including Eliab and his mother, is in the Tate Gallery collection). William Harvey died on 24th December 1742, so Eliab's letter regarding the family's financial affairs was written a month later. Conrade de Gols was a bank official appointed as the South Sea Company Cashier to tidy up the chaos left by Robert Knight. Eliab Harvey's ancestor Eliab Harvey (b.1590), was the brother of the famous physician Dr William Harvey, and his nephew Sir Eliab Harvey (1758-1830) was the admiral who commanded the Temeraire at Trafalgar.

HEATHCOTE, Sir Gilbert, 4th Baronet ( 1773-1851), politician. Autograph letter signed to "Drummond", 4 sides, 4to, Brick Hill House, Monday 28th [no date - 1793?], apologising for the lapse of time in replying to his letter, explaining he has "been at Luffenham for three weeks recreating myself with the pleasures of the chase", and relating how he became married, concluding "I cannot finish the subject without assuring you that I consider that Lady Mary Milsington did me the greatest favor she possibly could; as it enabled me to cultivate my acquaintance with the then Miss Manners, an acquaintance that has been productive of more real happiness to me then my most sanguine expectations could have induced me to credit". He also writes of his correspondent's interest in horse racing, and on affairs abroad "You know I am a bit of a Politician, think then I am in great anxiety to know whether the Accounts of the great defeat of the French before Maubeuge is confirmed". Edges of paper rather grubby.

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Sir Gilbert Heathcote  was elected MP for Lincolnshire in 1796, a seat he held until 1806, after which he represented Rutland from 1812 to 1841. He married on 16th August 1793 Katherine Sophia Manners (who died in 1825), by whom he had a son, Gilbert John Heathcote, 5th Baronet (1795-1867), who was created Baron Aveland. The mention of the battle of Maubeuge suggests that this letter may date to October 1793, when the siege of Maubeuge was lifted due to the French victory at Wattignies.
 

HERBERT, Henry, tenth earl of Pembroke and seventh earl of Montgomery (1734–1794), army officer. Autograph letter signed to Lady Wentworth, Kirby Hall, Hinxley, Leicestershire, 4to, 2 sides with integral blank bearing address, postmarks and broken seal (which has torn a small blank area), July 1st 1797, Bowood Park, 29 October 1792. A letter full of amusing observations and news, including “Sienr Gibbs plante ses choux. Should the soil of his garden suit them, the whole territory of Leather-Hall will be overcome by cabbages & I shall endeavour to cover mine in a similar manner ……. The Lord protect Bow’s pockets, & paraletick affections, for which neither French nor English Female Quality are good medicines. O’Dorman sounds somewhat King’s Placeish, methinks at any rate, he has no more need of such furniture than a Dog has of a side pocket …… The forcing Miss Cotton’s neck-lace in a hot bed will not serve as an example in respect to an old marine, or an ancient Dragon any more than it would with our friend Bulkely …….. Some pleasant, lost, French are here, & with them a Dutch Physician, Ingenhausen, a very odd & extraordinary man, but a very learned & interesting one full of diverting experiments …….  Sr Willoughby, if I mistake not, is with you. Pray beg of him to ask Mr Moorcrofts what can be done to a young Philly about sevenmonths old only, but full of worms …….. The old B_ tch of all the Russias then has enveighled His Prussian Majesty up a lane into an alehouse, where she has made him drunk, knocked him down & picked his pockets …..”. Some staining and folds repaired with archival tape. Ex Collection Sir Thomas Phillipps (ms 31008).

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Herbert was a conscientious army officer, who had seen action on the Continent, and who carefully attended to regimental efficiency. He was devoted to horses, dogs, and beautiful women, enjoyed travelling and shooting, and was interested in music and the arts. His son Lord Herbert described him as ‘perhaps … the most unaccountable of all human beings’, while Horace Walpole was ‘not surprised at any extravagance in his Lordship's morals’. (ODNB)

His correspondent Lady Wentworth was born Mary Henley, the second daughter of Robert Henley, earl of Northington. She married firstly Edward Ligonier, Earl Ligonier of Clonmell (1740?–1782) in 1773, and following his death married Thomas Noel, second Viscount Wentworth in1788. She died at Kirkby Mallory, Leicestershire in 1814.

The Dutch physician mentioned in the letter is probably Dr Jan Ingenhaus, sometime physician in Vienna to the Holy Roma Emperor Joseph II, and a friend of Benjamin Franklin.

HOWARD, Henry Thomas (1766-1824) politician, of Thornbury Castle. Autograph letter signed to Mr Rolph, Thornbury, Bristol, 1 side plus integral blank plus address panel with seal and postage franks, London, Sept 17^th, [17]95. “I have just recd a letter from Mr. Holwell respecting Taylor’s behaviour at ye Swan – I am very happy it has happened as I wanted an excuse to give him notice to quit; which I should be glad you would do, & tell him it is in consequence of ye complaints I have recd from Mr. Holwell – I shall write to Mr. Holwell as soon as I get back to Weymouth for which place I set out tomorrow – The church at Covent Garden burnt down this morning, but fortunately no other mischief”. Repair to blank where seal has removed a section of paper. PHOTO

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Howard was MP for Gloucester at this time, and an officer of the North Gloucester Militia. His Gloucestershire properties were settled upon him by the 9^th duke of Norfolk in 1776. He voted for the abolition of the slave trade in 1796, and for Catholic relief in the period 1812-17. His brother Bernard Edward became 12^th Duke of Norfolk in 1815.

St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden was gutted by fire on 17 September 1795 when, at their midday break, plumbers carrying out work on the bell-turret, left a fire unguarded. Only the walls, portico and south-west wing remained. The vestry suffered the nearly complete destruction of 'that beautiful Edifice, which was once the pride of this Parish, and the admiration of Strangers'. (Survey of London: volume 36: Covent Garden 1970).

HUSKISSON, William (1770–1830), politician. Autograph letter signed to J.C.Herries, 4 sides 4to,  London, 20 Novr 1823, docketed, sending three communications to be transmitted to the Lords of the Treasury

"No. 1.  A Memorial from Mr. John Winder of Liverpool, praying that three kegs of Cayenne Pepper imported from Demerara, may be admitted, free of duty.....

No. 2.  A Memorial from William Bagot praying liberation from Kirkdale Gaol, & the stay of Exchequer Proceedings instituted against him; by the Board of Excise, for an infraction of the Laws regulating the Manufacture of tobacco.....

No. 3.  A letter from Mr. Saml Hope, requesting of behalf of the Liverpool Auxiliary Bible Society, that three packages containing copies of  …. Versions of the Bible, imported from India as specimens only, in the ship Princess Charlotte, may be admitted free of duty...... "

In each case Huskisson recommends their Lordships give favorable treatment to the  individual's cases.

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In February 1823 Huskisson became president of the Board of Trade (joining the cabinet in November) and treasurer of the navy, and at the same time his correspondent John Charles Herries (1778–1855) was appointed financial secretary of the Treasury. Huskisson’s work at the Board of Trade was hailed as central to ‘liberal toryism’ and to Britain's gradual adoption of free trade, while Herries played an important background role in the development of free-trade policies, and achieved the consolidation of the customs laws. In the same year (1823) Huskisson succeeded Canning as MP for Liverpool (ODNB).

Huskisson was the first widely-reported person in history to be fatally injured in a railway accident. On 15 September 1830 while attending the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, he alighted from the train during a stop at Parkside and fell into the path of the oncoming Rocket engine. He died later that day.

Jackson, Francis James (1770–1814), diplomatist. Manuscript receipt signed by Francis James Jackson, Berlin, 8th January 1803, 200 x 100 mm with embossed tax stamp, "Received of the Right Honourable Lord Hawkesbury, His Majesty’s Principal Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, the Sum of Three Hundred Pounds, issued to his Lordship in pursuance of the Civil List Act".

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Francis James Jackson  was sent to Berlin as minister-plenipotentiary in 1802, where he married, and later, in 1809, he was sent as minister-plenipotentiary to Washington, where he remained until the breakdown in relations between Great Britain and the United States in 1811. Lord Hawkesbury was the courtesy title of Robert Banks Jenkinson (1770–1828), who became second earl of Liverpool upon his father's death in 1808. He held the office of Foreign Secretary 1801–1804, and became Prime Minister in 1812.

JACOB, Eustace Wilberforce (1835-1871). Autograph letter signed to his brother Augustus, 2 close-written sides, 8vo, Crawley Rectory, Feb 3rd 1857, hoping he has received his last letter at Malta; saying he has been made a 3rd Ensign and is hoping for a Lieutenancy, with thoughts on another position - "On my way here from Cork I stopped two nights in London. The Archbishop offered me a Clerkship in the British Museum, and I called in on Mr Panizzi there who is Chief Librarian to make enquiries about the post, which I have since declared as being in many ways worse than the Army because though the pay began at £130 it never got beyond £200 a year with no retiring pension....", plus other news on social matters.

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Eustace Wilberforce Jacob was one of ten children of Philip Jacob (c.1804-1884) , Rector of Crawley and sometime Archdeacon of Winchester, and Anna Sophia (née Noel). Eustace remained in the army attaining the rank in 1861 of Captain in the 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment, but maintained throughout his short life an interest in history, literature and anthropology, submitting frequent articles to Notes & Queries. He also edited a book of short stories entitled Something New; or Tales for the Times published in 1863.

[JEFFREYS, Lady Anne (1657–1703)] Autograph letter signed from Thomas Williams to Lady Anne Jeffreys, 1 side plus integral blank with address panel, 8vo, Cardiff, 9th July 1680, asking for a debt to be settled "that is to order ye paymt of fifteen pounds fifteen shillings being ye full Balance of all Accompts to this day, I would not press Sr George with it when I was in London, but Rather make my Application to your Ladyshipp, as knowing that your Ladyshipp will bee very kinde and just toward mee", and including a postscript "My humble and harty thanks to your Ladyshipp for ye great ffavor Reced when I was at your Ladyshipps table." Part of integral blank torn off, but not affecting the address panel. PHOTO

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Lady Anne Jeffreys was the second wife of the judge, Sir George Jeffreys, first Baron Jeffreys (1645–1689). They married on 10 June 1679 at St Mary Aldermanbury, where his first wife had been buried the year before. His new wife Anne, was the widow of Sir John Jones of Glamorgan, and the daughter of Sir Thomas Bludworth, a wealthy merchant and friend of Jeffreys. The marriage was mocked by the press, who attacked Ann Jeffreys for her alleged dalliances. Jeffreys was particularly busy in 1680 adjudicating in a series of troublesome seditious libel cases, so one can perhaps sympathise with Williams choosing to approach Lady Jeffreys over the settlement of the debt.

JENKYNS, Richard (1782–1854), college head, Oxford. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent [Mr Bere], 1 side, 4to, July 16 [no year, c1830s], regarding a debt due to Balliol College from a Mr Bere..“Upon application to James Stole Esqr according to the advice given by you to Mr. Round the College Bursar, I am this morning informed by a letter from Mr. Stole himself, that he did not obtain possession of the Estate purchased of Mr. Bere until Michs:1830, & therefore that Mr. Bere is bound to pay up to that time”.

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Jenkyns was appointed tutor of Balliol College, Oxford in 1813, bursar in 1814, and on 23 April 1819 was elected master. At his death Balliol could claim to rank as the first college in Oxford. ODNB.

 

LoNSDALE, James Lowther, earl of (1736–1802), politician and landowner. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent [Henry Dundas],  2 sides plus integral blank with docket, folio, February 16th 1793, thanking him for his letter, but expressing frustration at not having received a positive answer, which prevents him "from making the necessary Returns", and pursuing his request "Notwithstanding Lord Amhurst's unjustifiable conduct towards me in the last War, of which you yourself were a Witness ............ I would .... talk to him upon the subject of the letter I troubled you with, could I think it of any avail ..............  as my Commission as Brigadr. General was acknowledged at the War Office ...... during the German War, & also in the American War, ...... thro' the Secretary of States Office, signed by Mr. Pitt ........  I am led to suppose that the Secretary of State is the person I am to apply to upon the present occasion", and in closing  "I shall be much obliged to you if you will let me have an answer as soon as possible, for I desirous of shewing myself forward in His Majesty's Service". Ex collection Sir Thomas Phillips. Three of the four margins grubby.

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Lonsdale inherited vast estates, especially in Cumberland and Westmorland, and throughout his life lavished money on elections, in an attempt to exercise political control. Always seeking preferment, he hounded the government for a peerage (eventually granted by William Pitt in 1784), but was refused a dukedom in 1792.

From internal evidence, Lonsdale's letter is directed to the Secretary of State, Henry Dundas, first Viscount Melville (1742–1811), a longstanding ally of Pitt. The letter is written a fortnight after France declared war upon Britain (on 1^st February,1793), and although Lord Amherst had been brought out of retirement at the end of January as General in command the army in Great Britain, Lonsdale clearly saw little point in pressing the matter with him. Application to the Secretary of State had, on the other hand, evidently been successful in obtaining a military position in the past. A year later, on 14^th March 1794, Lonsdale was appointed colonel in the army during service.

Disliked by many, critics such as Horace Walpole, considered Lonsdale to be ‘equally unamiable in public and private’, while at the stronger end of the scale, the Rev.Alexander Carlyle believed him to be ‘more detested than any man alive as a shameless political sharper, a domestic bashaw, and an intolerant tyrant over his tenants and dependents’.

 

MITCHELL, Sir Andrew (1708–1771), diplomatist. Manuscript Bill submitted and signed by Sir Andrew Mitchell, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to the King of Prussia, detailing expenses of £150, countersigned Rochford, 1 side folio, Whitehall 19^th May 1769.

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Sir Andrew Mitchell (1708–1771) was the most successful British representative in Berlin during the eighteenth century, notable in particular for developing a friendship with Frederick the Great, and cementing the Anglo-Prussian partnership during the early years of the Seven Years' War. Relations deteriorated in the 1760s, and during this final decade of his life, Mitchell enjoyed the company of the wide circle of academic and literary friends he had built up in Berlin, and retained the respect and grudging friendship of the king. (ODNB)

William Henry van Nassau van Zuylestein,, fourth earl of Rochford (1717–1781), was an effective diplomatist and politician. Following appointments as ambassador to Spain 1763-1766 and ambassador to Paris 1766-1768, he was named secretary of state for the northern department on 21 October 1768. Foreign diplomats in London found Rochford more accessible and better informed than his predecessors, while British diplomats abroad were relieved and delighted to be instructed by an experienced former ambassador. As northern secretary (1768–70) Rochford was particularly scrupulous in his conduct of the routine correspondence and gave more coherence to British foreign policy than had been evident during the Chatham administration. (ODNB).

NASMYTH, James Hall (1808–1890), mechanical engineer. Autograph letter signed to Cundell, 8vo, 1 side plus integral blank, Penhurst, Kent, Oct 31st 1882, expressing his grief that he is "not to be able to be present and pay my last sad tribute to the remains of the Dear departed "most worthy Master"! It must be some consolation to all whom he was so Dear that he departed without Pain after his long and happy and admirable life. We shall never meet with his like again".

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Nasmyth's letter refers to the death of George Cundell (1798-1882), a scientist, pioneering photographer and politician, and is possibly addressed to one of Cundell's surviving brothers. Nasmyth refers fondly to Cundell in his 'autobiography' compiled by Samuel Smiles in 1883: 'Among my most intelligent private friends in London were George Cundell and his two brothers. They resided near my lodgings, and I often visited them on Saturday evenings. They were most kind, gentle, and genial ....... George was agent for Mr. Patrick Maxwell Stuart in connection with his West India estates ........ My special friend George was known amongst us as "the worthy master." He was thoroughly versed in general science, and was moreover a keen politician. He had the most happy faculty of treating complex subjects, both in science and politics, in a thoroughly common-sense manner ........ With companions such as these, gi ith a variety of tastes, I spent many of my Saturday evenings most pleasantly and profitably. They were generally concluded with a glass of beer of "the worthy master's" own brewing.'

FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE: INSCRIBED BOOK

NIGHTINGALE, Florence (1820–1910), reformer of Army Medical Services and of nursing organization. Autograph dedication signed to "Mary Bratby in remembrance of her affectionate friend Florence Nightingale March 1860", written on an inner free endpaper of the book Holy Living by Jeremy Taylor, accompanied by the matching companion volume Holy Dying, both published by Bell and Daldy, London 1857. In original calf bindings newly rebacked, the dedication page with offset marks from old cuttings (not present); the engraved frontispiece with stains, board corners worn, and the edges of the free marbled endpapers tatty. The text of both volumes is in good condition. Inserted between the pages of Holy Dying are a few lose ephemeral items from a previous owner, including a photograph of an unidentified gentleman (1920s). PHOTO

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Mary Bratby was Florence Nightingale's housekeeper and a close friend. Several letters are known from Nightingale to Mary Bratby between 1879 and 1890, but only occasional references to her are found beforehand, making this a scarce "document". Florence Nightingale had only been back in England four years since her life-changing experiences of the Crimea when she presented these books. In 1860 she privately published a 3 volume work ‘Suggestions for thought, to the Searchers after Truth Among the Artizans of England’ in which she set out her personal religious philosophy, arguing that work was the means by which every individual could achieve self-fulfilment and serve God. Florence Nightingale was a Christian Universalist, and the choice of the gift of Taylor's books is interesting in relation to her own religious beliefs. Holy Living and Holy Dying had been best selling manuals of practical piety ever since their publication in the 17th century.

 

Norton, Caroline Elizabeth Sarah (1808–1877), author and law reform campaigner. Autograph letter signed to Mrs. Hyford Burr, 3 sides, 8vo, no place, no date [1864?], accepting an invitation, and mentioning her meeting with Garibaldi “a man more like an ideal hero than most of those one is compelled to admit are “famous” – and whose sweet clear animated utterance seems the very voice he ought to have to speak with. I wonder if he will be killed & suffocated by the warm drawing room full of compliments like the people who go into untried catacombs & dried up wells!”. Corners browned and thinned on reverse of last (blank) page from removal from an album.

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A prolific author, Caroline Norton suffered a disastrous marriage to George Norton, the outcome of which led Caroline to force a debate and reform legislation in relation to child custody, divorce and property rights. Her mention of having met Garibaldi, the popular hero of the age of Italian unification, almost certainly places this letter in 1864, when Garibaldi visited London.

OBLIGATION BOND TO 'MAKE GOOD' GUNPOWDER 1668

OBLIGATION BOND of James and John Lloyd, 1 side folio with integral blank, 7th May 1668, to make good 200 barrels of defective gunpowder. Docketed on the reverse "Mr James Lloyd & his Bother ye Drs Bond for 200 Barrlls of  -?-. 9 May 1668". In Latin and English, signed and sealed by James and John Lloyd, and witnessed by Tho. Townsend and John Whitinge. “…..whereas the above bound James Lloyd hath had and received out of his Maties stores within the office of the ordnance Two hundred Barells defective and dammadg’d Gunpowder to be by him repaired and made serviceable with good and new materials and returned into his Maties said stores within the tyme and space of Sixe weekes …..”. A very fine and attractive document. PHOTO

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In the opening Latin paragraph of the document the Lloyd brothers are described as "Jacobus Lloyd de London Armiger et Johanne Lloyd de eodem Locum Theoligia Doctorem". James Lloyd is recorded from other sources as founding gunpowder mills at Wandsworth in 1656 with one Abel Richardson.

ONSLOW, Mary, Lady [née Elwill]. Manuscript bill of account, entitled "Lady Elwills Bill about Lady Onslows Marriage settlement" dated 1741, 3 sides of folded large folio, with a note at the foot "14th June 1743 Recd of the right honorable the Lord Onslow by ye hands of Barwell Smith Esq the full .....bill by me   Joseph Ashton". Listing various interesting matters with itemised costs against each eg:

"Attending several times by Lady Elwell's directions on the speaker of the
House of Commons  ................. 1:1:0"

"For copy of the Petition that the portion of 6000£ and 2000£ might be paid to Lord Onslow the marriage having been solemnized .............. 0:6:8"

"Attending at the South Sea House along with Mr. Jacoub[?] Lord Onslow's
Solicitor to accept the South Sea annuities that were bought with the 2000£ ................  0:10:6"

Paper split along two folds, with repairs with document tape and old paper. PHOTO

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Mary Elwill was christened 7 December 1720 at St. James’, Westminster, London, the daughter of Sir Edmund Elwill, 3rd Baronet and Ann (née Speke, born 1696) his wife. She married on 16 May 1741 at St. James’ Westminster, Richard 3rd Baron Onslow, (born 1715) KB., LLD, High Steward of Guildford, Lord Lieutenant for Surrey, and MP Guildford 1734-40. The Lady Elwill in the document is Lady Onslow's mother, Lady Mary Elwill.

PALMERSTON, Henry John Temple, third Viscount (1784–1865), prime minister. Letter signed "Palmerston" to H L Lee Esq.,13 Burlington Street, Bath, 1 side, fo., War Office, 11th January 1811, docketed on the reverse, acknowledging receipt of a letter of the 2nd on the subject of "the Loss sustained by Jane Richards, by the ill conduct of a Party of the 39th and 71st Regiments on their March from Bridgeworth to Kidderminster in October last" which "having taken into consideration the circumstances represented by you, I have now to acquaint you, that an authority has been given to the District Paymaster at Shrewsbury to pay to the Woman the Sum of One Pound, as a Compensation for the said Loss". Several old paper repairs to reverse.

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Palmerston accepted Spencer Perceval's offer of the secretaryship at war in 1809, which he was to retain under five prime ministers outside the cabinet until 1827. The incident behind this order for compensation would be most interesting to research further in local sources.

PALMERSTON, Henry John Temple, third Viscount (1784–1865), prime minister. Autograph letter signed 'Palmerston' to J. Kinnaird, 8vo, 2 sides, 20th February 1856, in support of the election of John Patrick Somers for the seat of Sligo, Ireland, "Mr Somers stands again for the Town of Sligo upon the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr Sadlier, and I wish it to be made known to any who might be disposed to be influenced by a knowledge of my intentions that my good wishes are in Mr Somers's favour".

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In the election which took place on 7th March, 1856, the Liberal candidate John Patrick Somers lost the seat to Conservative Rt Hon John Arthur Wynne (1801-1865). The seat was again contested in 1857 when Somers was declared elected, but on petition the seat was given to Wynne, who had a majority of 31. The Select Committee appointed to investigate the election proved that officials had taken votes from Wynne and placed them with Somers.

John Sadleir (1813-1856) the politician and financier whose death occasioned the election, was one of the leading figures in the Independent Irish Party which held the balance of power in the House of Commons in 1852. He resigned his ministerial position in 1854 when he was found guilty of being implicated in a plot to imprison a depositor of the Tipperary Bank who had refused to vote for him. Financial ruin followed through disastrous speculations and he committed suicide on 17 February 1856.

Lord Palmerston was son of the Irish peer, Viscount Palmerston. He began his parliamentary career as a Tory and concluded it as a Liberal, and at the time this letter was written was serving his first period as Prime Minister (from 1855-1858).

Potter, Thomas (1718?–1759), wit and politician. Two autograph letters signed, both 3 sides each, 4to, to “My Lord” January 7^th, and Jan. 10 1754, seeking his correspondent’s support in standing as MP for Aylesbury. "I am informed that there is at Wickham an Anabaptist Teacher whose Name is Piety. He is likewise the Teacher at Ailesbury for which Place I have declared myself a Candidate. It is in the Power of this Gentleman to do me Service with the People of his own Persuasion and I am told that no Persons Recommendation will have so much Weight with him as your Lordships."....... ...... "My Principles my Lord, are publickly known, & the struggles wch the Tories in Ailsburuy are making to raise an Opposition to me because I am too much a Whig may satisfy those who do not know me that at least I am not a Tory."

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Potter sat for the borough of Aylesbury from 1754 to 1757, and in government supported Pitt the elder. In 1756 he was appointed paymaster-general of the land forces, and the following year joint vice-treasurer of Ireland. Considered good-looking, Potter has been identified as the candidate depicted in Hogarth's election series, and was a member of the bizarre club known as the Medmenham Monks, or Franciscans, created by Sir Francis Dashwood.

RIVERS, Richard Savage, fourth Earl (c.1654–1712), army officer and politician. Autograph letter in third person, signed, 2 sides, with integral blank with address panel and docket, 8vo, "For Mr Black, Mercht. in Rotterdam", February 5th 1711/12, regarding supplies of Champaign and china. "The champain you mention is not yet cleard all the Custome Hous yet I can give you noe account of it. Ye 6 Hogsheads I got off in a day and could have done as much more if you had sent it, consider, and if you find it turns better to account wth the risks you run, to send it over then sell it ther .............. pray send me on dozen of blew china cups wth handles and sawcers, and on dozen of Jappan china cups wth sawcers". Two stab-holes through both leaves; small tears on integral blank where seal broken, and traces of two paper hinges.

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Rivers became colonel of the Royal Regiment of Horse Guards on 4 January 1712, and on 18 January was appointed general and commander-in-chief of the army in Great Britain. Shortly after receiving these appointments, he became seriously ill and went to Bath. He died at his home at Ealing Grove, Middlesex on 18 August 1712.

ROBINSON, John (1650-1723), bishop of London and diplomatist. Parchment document signed "Joh: London", 345 x 355 mm, with bishop of London's wafer seal, and tax seals, countersigned by (his secretary) Ed.Alexander, December 8th 1714, in Latin, appointing Robert Moss to the Rectory of Gilston, Hertford. Three dockets on the reverse, one recording that "Dr Robert Moss was this day instituted to the Rectory of Gilston alias Gedlestone in the County of Hertford in the presence of us .... J.Gibbon .... Tho:Winton". Folded on right side, light staining, and the episcopal seal crumpled and with cracks.

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Following significant diplomatic service in Sweden and Northern Europe, Robinson was in 1710 consecrated bishop of Bristol, and the following year was appointed as lord privy seal and a privy councillor. His experience as mediator and position as Bishop, were a perfect combination in him becoming Britain's first plenipotentiary for the peace negotiations at Utrecht. He proposed the final cease-fire of the war on 27 June 1713 and was the first to sign the peace of Utrecht, that ended the War of the Spanish Succession. He returned to London in August 1713, and on 13 March 1714, was consecrated bishop of London. His support of the Whigs earlier in 1714 in respect of the protestant succession, was rewarded upon the accession of George I, who reappointed him privy councillor in September (Queen Anne had died 1^st August).

The subject of the document was Robert Moss (c1666-1729), who had been installed as dean of Ely in 1713, and by this document was given the rectory of Gilston. Moss, a high-churchman and Tory, had supported the controversial clergyman Henry Sacheverell throughout his trail in 1710. When Sacheverell began to re-emerge in 1714 (his bar from preaching having been lifted), it was John Robinson who ordered him to return to his parish and stop meddling in politics. The death of Anne, and a triumphant Whig government under George I, brought the end of preferment for high-church clergymen, and perhaps also curtailed Moss in ambitions beyond the Ely deanery, and Gilston rectory.

Robinson, Thomas, first Baron Grantham (1695–1770), diplomatist and politician. Affadavit signed by Thomas Robinson and witnessed by Wm Thomson,  with seal, 1 side, on cut down 4to sheet, 23rd April, 1729, certifying that "His Excellency Cornelius Hop, Sherif and Counselor of the City of Amsterdam, and now Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Provinces at the Congress of  Soissons is alive at Paris this present twelfth day of April.....". One corner cut away (not affecting text), and corners dog-eared.

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Horace Walpole appointed Robinson as secretary to the embassy in Paris in 1724, and in a short space of time he found himself chargé d'affaires in Walpole’s absence. In this role, Robinson was highly conscientious, the embassy being anxious to counter the influences of the Jacobite court. Elected MP for Thirsk in 1727, he continued serving abroad, and in 1728 and 1729 was one of three English representatives at the Congress of Soissons, set up to try and secure peace across Europe. In 1730, he was transferred to Vienna, where he remained until returning to England in 1748, to take up politics at home.

ROSE, Hugh James (1795–1838), Church of England clergyman. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, 4to, Hadleigh, March 9, 1833, extending his thanks to the Ipswich Literary Society for electing him an Honorary Member, “I can say with great truth that no one can hear with greater pleasure than myself of Institutions for the purpose of extending a knowledge of real and sound Literature”. Small blemish to right margin.

Rose was a popular preacher, and of his writings, “Discourses on the State of the Protestant Religion in Germany” (1825), firmly established his reputation as an eminent high-church divine. He held office as select preacher in the University of Cambridge in 1825 to 1834. Ill health forced Rose to make a series of changes of residence in his later years - he was dean of Bocking and rector of Hadleigh, Suffolk (1830–34). In 1833 he was appointed the first regius professor of divinity at the new University of Durham, but ill health forced him to resign his post within a year.

 

RUSSELL, William (1746–1793), historian. Autograph letter signed to George Robinson, 1 side 4to plus integral blank, Knottyholm, January 25 1791, sympathizing with Robinson's complaints at not having received copy, but informing him that "I have now finished my views of the early progress of Idolatory; a subject that has filled volumes, but which I have comprehended with a few pages" and that "In this paquet I have sent three sheets of copy, and shall send other three sometime next week.  On this you may depend". In a post script he adds "The whole introduction, as far as I can judge, will make nine sheets.  At least I will endeavor that it shall not exceed that quantity.  You will now have copy for near seven".

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Russell was able to earn a living from his literary work from 1770 onwards, producing works on history (notably The History of America, from the First Discovery by Columbus to the Conclusion of the Late War completed in 1779) and other subjects including poetry, essays, an unsuccessful play, and a tribute to Sarah Siddons, the actress. In 1787 he married a Miss Scott, and settled at Knottyholm, a farm near Langholm, Dumfriesshire, belonging to the duke of Buccleuch. In 1792 he received the honorary degree of LLD from St Andrews University. His health was poor, and this was made worse by constant arguments with booksellers. His correspondent George Robinson was a member of a successful family of booksellers who traded at Addison's Head, 25 Paternoster Row, London, from 1764 until 1822, and for many years were the greatest trading booksellers and publishers in England. (ODNB).

Sams, Joseph (1784–1860), bookseller and dealer in antiquities. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, 4to, Darlington 26^th May 1825, acknowledging the receipt of a bill for "55£ 2/- being the amnt. for a collection of books, purchased by the late Sir. M. Sykes in the year 1822", and complaining that where a bill has not settled for several years "Interest ought to be paid ........ particularly, as in this case, when the books bought of me by Sir M. Sykes, have been about a year since resold, to such great advantage to the executors, a number of the said works having actually brought treble, & even fourfold, the sums I charged them ...... I can most readily prove by a specific reference to ...... Sir M. S’s sale catalogue, (priced) now, before me  ....... 5£, at least, Interest, ought to be sent, being justly due, & is only about 3 pr. cent, on the debt". Couple of contemporary highlights in red ink, and the top of the page trimmed, removing some unwanted (?) words on the reverse - the text is contiguous from the recto to the verso.

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In 1824 Sams closed a school he had been running, to open a bookseller's shop in Darlington, from which he published A descriptive catalogue of a valuable collection of books etc. (1822–6), containing 8071 entries. The books referred to in his letter, had been bought by Sir Mark Sykes (1771–1823), who assembled an extremely fine collection, strong in Elizabethan literature and in fifteenth-century editions of the classics. Sykes died on 16 February 1823 and his books were sold at auction in 3700 lots over a twenty-five day period, producing nearly £18,000.

SHARPE, Lieutenant-General Matthew (1774-1846), army officer and landowner. Autograph letter signed to John Hope Johnstone Esq of Annandale, Rachills, Moffat, 3 sides plus address panel (with postmark and part bof seal), 4to, Hoddom Castle [Dumfries], 26th July [postmark 1826], . Accepting an invitation to dine, but circumspect about joining a shooting party since fracturing his leg, and commenting upon absentee landowners: “Ireland itself scarcely exceed this Country in Absenteeism, nor do I see how a sufficient number of respectable Country gentlemen can be got together as will impress his Grace with that opinion of the Country, we would wish to be first on his mind. Then, that distinction, Gentleman, in these times of liberation has got so extended that unless curbed by the distraction of Freeholder, or some other which would vastly compress, its limits, would send forth specimens in my humble opinion not likely to give him very high notions of the Aristocracy of the Country.” Address panel soiled, and hole next to seal and paper torn from edge by seal (affects a few words).

Lieutenant-General Matthew Sharpe (1774-1846) took over the estate at Hoddom, upon the death of his father Charles Sharpe in 1813. He commissioned in 1826 the Edinburgh architect William Burn, to design extensive additions to the old castle, which were completed about 1832. Sharpe became Liberal M.P. for the Dumfries burghs from 1832 to 1841. His correspondent John James Hope-Johnstone (1796- 1876) held the office of Hereditary Steward of Annandale & Hereditary Keeper of Lochmaben Palace.

SHERLOCK, William (1639/40–1707), Church of England clergyman and religious controversialist. Affadavit signed by William Sherlock, 1 side on paper 4 x 7 ins., 10^th January 1703: “I Willm Sherlock Doctor of Divinity; Dean of Ye Cathedral Church of St. Pauls London, & Mtr of Ye Temples in London aforesaid do hereby Certify that Mrs. Charity Woodruffe Ye Daughter & Nominee of Unton Croke late of Ye Inner Temple London aforesaid Esqr deceased, in a certain Order No.419 is living. Witness my hand this tenth day of January Ano’ Dni’ 1703”. Repair to reverse, and left margin heavily browned and nibbled.

Sherlock was a staunch supporter of Church of England orthodoxy, who defended in print and in the pulpit, the Church of England against Catholicism and dissenters, often courting widespread controversy.

Unton Croke was a parliamentarian army officer and lawyer who died in 1694. In his will he gave only token sums to his daughters Drury and Bridgett, and divided most of the remainder of his estate between his other daughters Charity, Gratious, and Eleanor Snow. ODNB

SINCLAIR, Sir John, first baronet (1754–1835), agricultural improver, politician, and codifier of ‘useful knowledge’. Autograph letter signed in third person, to Mr Wedgwood, Greek Street, Soho, 1 side, folio, with address panel and endorsement overleaf, plus broken seal, Whitehall, Friday March 19^th 1790. “Sir John Sinclair wishes to have the inclosed account [not present] settled and paid But he thinks that there are two or three Articles, which he brought with him from Abroad, which were sent to Mr. Wedgewood, and which he should be glad to have returned. The Bearer will settle the account, that has been delivered”. Address panel soiled, and seal has torn a section of paper, since repaired.

After the death of his first wife in 1785, Sinclair was appointed by William Pitt commercial negotiator to the northern courts. He went through Denmark, Sweden, Russia, Poland, Prussia, Austria, Hanover, the Netherlands, Flanders, and France, meeting the leading political figures and making links that he was to use later with the network of scientific contacts built up by Sir Joseph Banks. Upon his return, he launched in 1790 the idea of a survey of the state of the country, which was to become the twenty-one volumes of the Statistical Account of Scotland. ODNB

Josiah Wedgwood (1730–1795), master potter, had his London showrooms at numbers 12-13 Greek St from 1774-1797.

Sinclair, Sir John, first baronet (1754–1835), agricultural improver, politician, and codifier of ‘useful knowledge’. Autograph letter signed to Mr McLeod of the [Glasgow] Courier, 5 sides plus address panel on integral blank, 8vo, 133 George St. Edinburgh 24^th February 1827, speculating on the removal of Lord Liverpool "There is a chance, by the removal of Lord Liverpool, of our returning to the ancient policy of this country; for his private character gave him great influence in bringing about the mischievous public projects which he recommended", and appending a list of  four queries for McLeod on trade with America. Glued rear edge indicating removal from an album, and base of letter nibbled affecting a few words of text.

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Sinclair developed his enthusiasm for “useful knowledge” after travelling abroad in 1785, and in 1790  launched the idea of a survey of the state of Scotland, which was to materialise as the twenty-one volume Statistical Account of Scotland. In 1793 Pitt supported him in the formation of a Board of Agriculture, through which Sinclair gave birth to an important series of county agricultural reports for Britain. He stepped down from politics in 1811 in the face of bankruptcy, but secured his Caithness parliamentary seat for his son.

On 17 February 1827 the Prime Minister Lord Liverpool suffered a stroke, and in April the King appointed George Canning to replace him (although Canning died in August the same year)

SOAMES, Henry (1785–1860), ecclesiastical historian. Autograph letter signed to Wasey Sterry Esq, Romford, 4to, 2 close written sides with integral blank bearing the address and broken seal (which has removed a portion of blank paper), Shelley, March 22 1832, thanking him for a folio book which he has received, and discussing at length the economics of a living from a vicarage, and speculating upon the identity and potential income of a vicarage called Suldon in Northamptonshire. Old remnant of glue line to left edge from mounting.

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Henry Soames was made rector of Shelley, Essex,  in 1812, and in 1821 rector of the neighbouring parish of Little Laver. From 1831 to 1839 he was vicar of Brent with Furneaux Pelham, Hertfordshire, and afterwards rector of Stapleford Tawney with Theydon Mount, Essex, where he lived until his death. He was Bampton lecturer in 1830, and was appointed chancellor of St Paul's Cathedral in 1842 (ODNB). Soames is probably best known for his revised edition of James Murdock's translation of J. L. von Mosheim's Institutes of Ecclesiastical History which first appeared in 1841.

Soames's correspondent was Wasey Sterry (1800-1842), attorney of Romford, Essex, and owner of Eastbury Manor House.

SOUTH SEA COMPANY STOCK.  Autograph instructions signed by Frances Lambart to Mr Child, in faded ink on 1 side of paper c.4 x 6 inches, March 15^th 1727, “Sir pray pay my dauther Ann Lambart my half years South Sea devedent due at Christmass last past for five hundred and fifty pound de mony South Sea Stock and this shall bee your discharg from your humble sarvant Frances Lambart”, with, in another hand, on the verso “£12-7-11” and on the recto “Ann Lambart”. Hole in the centre, grubby, and one corner damaged.

The Hon.Mrs Frances Lambart is listed at no. 40 Sackville Street, London between 1730-1750, and is succeeded 1751–74 by Colonel Richard Lambart, later sixth Earl of Cavan, to whom she is related (Survey of London: volumes 31 and 32: St James Westminster, Part 2,1963). Francis Child (c.1684–1740) became head of the banking house upon his brother’s death in 1721, which traded thereafter as Francis Child Esq & Co.

SOUTH SEA COMPANY STOCK. Instruction signed by Uxbridge and Guilford to Charles Lockyer, accountant to the South Sea Company, 1 side on paper slip 210 x 80mm, 14th February 1728 [1729], docketed on reverse. "Pray permitt the Bearer Mr Antho. Ralph to accept for us £1400 South Sea Stock, which was transferred to our Joint Account the 14th day of Augt. last, and pay him dividends that are now due ......".  Right hand edge crumpled, and with small stab-hole in centre.  PHOTO

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The document was issued by Henry Paget, first earl of Uxbridge (c.1663–1743), and Francis North, second Baron Guilford (1673–1729) who held a joint account at the South Sea Company. Charles Lockyer, Chief Accountant to the Company, gave important evidence in the Government's enquiry into the crash of 1720-21, without the benefit of the Company's cashier Charles Knight, who had fled abroad.

SPILLARD, Maurice, traveller. Autograph letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, 2 sides, folio, London, Aug.1769, seeking his assistance, “you will please to recollect that soon after my arrival from America I took the liberty to address you on the subject of the publication of my travels, for which I was soliciting a subscription, to which you had the goodness to comply without any hesitation ……

I was led to this Country in the idea of publishing my Travels, which I flattered myself I should find easier – my sole dependence for subsidence rested on the proposed profits of my book, which if brought out properly would be considerable …… your friend Mr. Robt. Barclay of Clapham terrace desired me to wait upon you ……. my passage to England I was twice captured by French Privateers who striped me of every article of value I had about me except my journals – For this way I have suffered much loss in my private property; and at the same time a valuable collection of seeds, plants and Roots, the results of twelve years travels – However the French Directory had publicly ordered, as I found by one of the Paris papers that every thing be restored me ……”. Top and bottom of paper browned and nibbled.

Autograph receipt signed Maurice Spillard, 1 side, on paper 3 x 8 ins, with embossed tax stamp, “Received Jany 18^th 1795 of Messrs Cadell & Davies Five Guineas on Account of my intended Publication of my Travels …… Maurice Spillard”.

Maurice Spillard is an elusive character - he may be the “Morris Spillard” who is recorded as marrying Abigail Barrett, on 25 March 1778, Boston, Suffolk, Massachusetts, elsewhere referred to as “an English officer named Spillard”. The British Museum holds a letter from Maurice Spillard to General Sir Frederick Haldimand, London, 17 June, 1785, which may help untangle his story. Whether the travels of the adventurous Maurice Spilllard were finally published is uncertain - there appears to be no record under his name, but it is possible that they were published anonymously or under a pseudonym. The well known London publishers Cadell & Davies clearly saw some potential in his work.

TAIT, Archibald Campbell (1811–1882), archbishop of Canterbury. Autograph letter signed A.C.London [as Bishop of London], incomplete letter 4 sides, 8vo, [to Lord Palmerston, 1862] , declining the appointment to the archbishopric of York "I have to consider that a very great assistance to me in the performance of my present duties is derived from that complete knowledge of the details of my work in London which six years experience of the Diocese has secured - that I might find the distant and untried work of York less congenial, and, though less pressing, more difficult for me - that, without some very strong counterbalancing reason, it is not desirable that I should leave plans which I have begun but scarcely matured in London .................. I am sure, when your Lordship reads this, you will not think that I have lightly set aside the very tempting offer made and renewed to me, or that I should be justified in now altering my decision".

£75

In 1856 Lord Palmerston offered Tait the bishopric of London, which he gladly accepted and where he made his greatest contribution to the ministry of the Church of England. The demands of his office took a toll on his health, evident to himself from fainting spells and to the public from cancelled appointments. This prompted Lord Palmerston in 1862 to offer him the more prestigious but less demanding archbishopric of York, which he declined [as set out in this letter]. Appreciation of Tait's leadership prompted Queen Victoria to insist on his appointment to the archbishopric of Canterbury when it fell vacant in October 1868. Disraeli, who faced a general election in which he needed to harvest votes from supporters of the established church, wanted to appoint a bishop whose doctrinal orthodoxy was above suspicion, and he gave way to the queen reluctantly. ODNB
 

SUPPRESSION OF THE OPIUM TRADE

TAIT, Archibald Campbell (1811–1882), archbishop of Canterbury. Autograph letter on mourning paper signed A.C.Canterbury [as Archbishop of Canterbury], 3 sides, 8vo, Addington Park, Croydon, Dec 19th 1879, to The Rev. The Secretary Anglo-Oriental Socy. for Suppression of the Opium Trade, thanking him for his letter of the 18th "enclosing a copy of an Address to the Electors of the United Kingdom on the subject of the Opium Trade "which you asked me to sign ........ This however, I think it would hardly be becoming in me to do. Much as I regret the evil which the opium trade causes, I do not feel that I ought to come forward, in the way you propose, in a matter connected with the approaching election". Fragments of red paper seal at two corners.

£75

The Anglo-Oriental Society for the Suppression of the Opium Trade was founded in London in November 1874, and quickly attracted the patronage of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Society's request referred to in this letter was apparently however, a step too far. In the following spring (1880) Disraeli and the Conservatives lost the general election, and the Liberals returned under Gladstone, giving the reformers (most of whom were Liberal supporters) hope for their campaign. Tait re-affirmed his support, but died in 1882. Ten years later, Gladstone, faced with growing pressure for reform, agreed to a public inquiry, but it was not until 1905 that parliament, under another Liberal government, finally and overwhelmingly supported the abolition of the opium trade.

REPARATION FOR LOSSES IN SHIP COLLISION

THORNTON, Ann. Autograph letter signed to Edward Mosley Esq, Newcastle, 2 sides, folio, Sunderland, February 12th 1790, with address panel bearing a Sunderland hand stamp, broken seal (piece of paper detached), and in which Edward Mosley has written and signed a reply dated Newcastle 17th February 1790 on a blank space. Ann Thornton writes informing Mosley of the loss of her son on board the Edward "which ship was run on board by the Grafton of your port the 19th of Decr last off Robin Hood's Bay ............ My husband & I flatter'd ourselves of our Son's being a Support to us ........ it was the first voyage for himself after serving his time ........ My husband is lamed in one of his hands by a misfortune he met with by a Gun during the late War which prevents him often getting a birth" and appends a copy of a letter received from Mr Jackson owner of the Edward on 19th January, and asks that an answer is addressed to Robert Thornton in Sunderland. In Edward Mosley's reply dated 17th February he sympathises with the loss of their son but states that "upon the strictest enquiry find there is not the least ground from Mr Jacksons report of ye Grafton running on board the Edward".

Together with

JACKSON, Thomas. Autograph letter signed ('for my Father in his absence') to Messrs Mosley & Airey, Newcastle upon Tyne, 2 sides, 4to, London April 17th 1790, with address panel bearing a circular date stamp, broken seal (piece of paper detached). Saying that his father has "made himself perfectly satisfied that it was your ship the Grafton which run foul of his Brig Edward and was the cause of her being sunk ....... one Man being drowned ......... having suffered a sufficient time to elapse for you to make every Enquiry about the fact.....and treat with him [his father] about the damage.............. if no reply is recd from you in due course, you will think my Father (under whose Direction I act) justifiable in forthwith communicating an Action to recover the Loss".

The two items £75

The family concerned may possibly be Robert and Ann Thornton of Sunderland who are found in the IGI having had four children, Thomas christened 24th April 1768; Robert born 1st March 1772; Matthias christened 28th August 1774 and Elizabeth christened 15th September 1776. Thomas Thornton's dates would fit with the son who was drowned as he is referred to in the letter as having reached 22 years. Local research would be interesting in following up the outcome of this case.

EARLY PLANS FOR PORTUGAL'S FIRST RAILWAY

TOJAL, Count, Portuguese Finance Minister. Autograph letter signed to (his cousin) Benjamin Oliveira Esq, London, 2 sides, large 4to, Lisbon, 4th November 1844, introducing him to his friend Snr Antonio Cabral de Sa' Norguma, Master of the Royal Mint (who was in London) so "that you may obtain from him every information on the subject of rail roads in this Country while he is here with you, he being perfectly qualified to afford you every elucidation on this important object", and thanking him for his communication of the 10th "[I] still think however that a rail road from here to Oporto, even taking a slant direction in order to include other large Towns as you suggest, will not serve the purpose ........ Mr Cabal de Sa'Norguma will better explain all the circumstances to you".

£80

The first proposal for a railway system in Portugal was put forward in 1842 by Costa Cabral, the Portuguese prime-minister, who suggested building two railway lines (from Lisbon to Oporto and Lisbon to Badajoz), but the idea was rejected. This was followed in 1844 by Benjamin de Oliveira's proposal to Count Tojal to build a railway line between Lisbon and Oporto, passing through Santarém, Leiria, Coimbra and Aveiro, which is referred to in part in this letter as not serving the purpose. By 19th December of 1844 the Portuguese Public Works Company was founded  with the objective of undertaking "all the major works legally authorised for the improvement of communications in the country under the Government's supervision", and despite a contract being awarded in 1845 to build a railway linking Lisbon to the Spanish frontier, the project was suspended because of political instability and the company was wound up in 1848.

From 1851 of major period of regeneration began in Portugal which exploited technological advances, in particular the development of railways, and the first railway in Portugal opened in 1856 between Lisbon and Carregado.

TOWNSHEND, George Ferrars [alias George Compton], third Marquess Townshend (1778–1855), disinherited aristocrat. Autograph letter in the third person to Mr G. Doo, Engraver, 10 Adams Terrace, Kentish Town, 1 side plus integral blank with address panel with seal and postal franks, 4to, 58 Portland Place, Thursday 3d July 1834, enquiring “The Engraving of the “2 Boys Heads” he supposes is not forward enough yet to be seen ……….. Should Mr. Doo be passing Portland Place some morning the ensuing week or following one L T has a Head by B-----andt He thinks Mr. Doo would be gratified in seeing”. Small piece of paper removed from blank edge by seal, and remains of paper along blank edge indicating removal from an album. PHOTO

Townshend was known as Lord Chartley and Lord Leicester before succeeding as marquess in 1811, but he had a serious dispute with his father over the use of the title of earl of Leicester, and was subsequently disinherited by him in favour of his younger brother, Charles. Reasons for the rupture were not made explicit. His marriage in 1807 to Sarah Chatteris was a disaster and they separated in 1808, following which he lived chiefly at Genoa, where he was known as Mr Compton. His correspondent George Thomas Doo (1800–1886) was an engraver, appointed in 1836 historical engraver-in-ordinary to William IV. ODNB

 

TRADE & THE EAST INDIA COMPANY. Autograph letter signed M.L.Newton to his son Philip, 1 side, folio, London, December 9th 1806, with integral blank bearing address panel, regarding East India warrants for the purchase of carnelian beads, paperwork required for their export, and details relating to the sums involved, the goods to be shipped to Buenos Aires.

£35

Moses Levy Newton and his sons were London based Jewish merchants active in trans-atlantic trade. The recipient of the letter, Philip Levy Newton, was born circa 1785 in London, but died very young in about 1812. His brother Coleman Levy Newton (c1784-c1834) was a West Indies merchant, of 5 Great Prescott Street, Goodman's Fields, Stepney, whose papers are in the Guildhall Library and National Archives.

Waldegrave, James, first Earl Waldegrave (1684–1741), diplomatist and politician. Affadavit signed by Waldegrave, countersigned  J.Burnaby, and witnessed by Ja: Reynolds, 17th January 1737 [1738], with a fine black armorial wax seal, 1 side, on cut down folio sheet, certifying that "Mrs. Elizabeth Ogleby is alive at Paris this eleventh day of January – one thousand seven hundred and thirty eight". PHOTO

£100

Waldegrave was appointed to the prestigious Paris embassy in April 1730, following Charles Townshend's resignation from the ministry. Paris was a vital diplomatic centre for the exiled Stuart court, and from the outset Waldegrave closely followed Jacobite affairs, cultivating spies and diplomatic contacts. From February to late April 1738 Waldegrave was on leave in England, and received the blue ribbon of a knight of the Garter.

The subject of the affadavit might possibly be Elizabeth Ogilby, formerly companion of Madame de Gouvernet (Esther d' Hervart c.1636–1722), and one of only two beneficiaries of Madame de Gouvernet's will, other than her family and the refugee hospital.

[WALPOLE, Robert (1676–1745), prime minister]. Receipted account signed by Jos. Norcott, 1 side, 4to, June 24 1720, relating to repairs, and making and engraving cutlery belonging to the Rt Honble. Robt. Walpole, “Recd the Contents by the hand of Mr Robt Mann in full of all demands, June 24 1720 £11-11- Jos. Norcott”. Docketed on reverse. Right hand edge ragged with some paper loss - see PHOTO

Walpole's return to power in 1720 was reflected in his decision to rebuild the family home at Houghton. In 1700, 1716, and 1719 a certain amount of work had been undertaken modernizing the old house, and the decision to rebuild completely was taken in 1720. His secretary was Robert Mann, mentioned in the document.

 

WORONZOW, Count Simon (1744-1832), Russian diplomat. Autograph letter signed to ‘My Lord’[George John, 2nd Earl Spencer, First Lord of the Admiralty], 2 sides 4to, with integral blank, Richmond, 10^th July 1798, in French, with translation into English written in pencil on the integral inside blank, thanking him for his letter informing him of the promotion of Lieutenant Michael Halliday as commander of the Woolwich, who Woronzow has recommended in profuse terms. He reports (translated) that ‘old Admiral Makazoff wrote me on the 21^st of last month from Copenhagen, that he arrived there 2 days before, that he is occupied in providing himself with water, that the pilots have not arrived, but that if they do not arrive in 2 days, he will not wait for them and will leave without them, directing his course to the Nore’.

 £100

Count Woronzow resided in Britain from 1785 until his death in 1832, occupying the position of Russian ambassador to Great Britain between1785-1806. He was elevated to the rank of ambassador extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary in 1796, at an important time when Britain’s Navy was heavily involved in the French Revolution. Woronzow played an important diplomatic role in supporting the British Navy with assistance from the Imperial Russian Navy, a role which was rekindled following Nelson’s action at the Battle of the Nile in August 1798 (a few weeks after this letter was written). The French defeat opened the door to the formation of a Second Coalition in Europe, which Russia promptly signed up to, followed by England in 1799. Vice-Admiral Mikhail Makarov (Makazoff) had operated in conjunction with the British in the North Sea during the First Coalition (1793-1797).

 Michael Halliday (1757-1829) was born in St Petersburg where his father practiced as a physician. He entered the Royal Navy in 1782, and later obtained a Lieutenancy on a Russian first-rate. Upon the outbreak of war with the French he returned to service in the Royal Navy, saw action at sea, and as this letter testifies was promoted as Commander of the Woolwich in 1798, a 44 gun fifth rate, armed en flûte.

WRIGHT, Thomas (1810–1877), historian and antiquary. Autograph letter signed to "My Dear Smith" [Charles Roach Smith], 1 side, 8vo, 24 Sydney Street, Brompton, Wednesday [no date], regarding archaeological matters "I believe you have found the Portus Adurni, but you must have a quiet fine day at it. The next thing to be inquired is, whether coins or other Roman antiquities have been found there. The opinion of a good geologist will be of use with regard to the reason for using the flints. Is the Norman tower faced with Flints?", and on other matters, including an enclosure from "Guest"; proofs to look over for a book; and offering to give him a duplicate book.

£50

From about 1837 until his death Wright lived in London, residing for thirty or so years at 14 Sydney Street, Brompton. He published a huge volume of work on antiquarian, historical, literary and artistic subjects. A close friend was the antiquary Charles Roach Smith (to whom this letter is almost certainly written) who together founded the the British Archaeological Association in 1843. Smith was especially active in the excavation and study of Roman archaeology and Roman coins.

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