Draft Autograph Letter, probably incomplete (lacking signature page), to "St John". WITH related material.

(Wyndham) Statesman and man of letters, at the time of this letter Chief Secretary fo Ireland (see DNB). Three pages, 4to, good condition, draft with much working over. He appreciates being given detailed grounds for a proposal that Sir Anthony Macdonnell [MacDonnell, Antony Patrick, Baron MacDonnell, statesman, of Irish origin] , currently working with Wyndham in Ireland might be made available in the Indian Council, a matter of urgency. He explains at length his high opinion of Macdonnell (energy, ability, distinction, etc.) and his reluctance to part with him. "He is truly remarkable for his administrative capacity: indefatigable, quick, loyal to me and his chief, and impartial in his attaitude towards all creeds and classes." But he has been attacked continuously mor than any public servant except Milner - "without foundation, justification, or even excuse" (though he does speculate why). His service in India are knowledge are discussed. He then discusses Macdonnell current status and remebers that he had persuaded "Sir Anthony to embark on what is always a thankless task." "There is, I admit, another side to my last argument. When Sir Anthony came here - before the final controversy had absorbed all political interest before the persitent depression of public credit rendered almost all legislation impossible - I entertained & imparted to him the hope that we might follow up the Land Act with other Irish reforms. But most reforms - especially of the Poor Law, of primary & secondary education, of the Labourers Act etc - demand time from Parliament & credit. So that I now feel I persuaded him to come here under false pretences . . . . ." Note: This draft letter reflects the difficulties Macdonnell encountered when nudging through some form of devolution. Wyndham is revealing of his thought processes as he struggles through re-working to express himself. See entries in DNB for Wyndham and Macdonnell's activities in Ireland at this time. WITH: four-page (incomplete)"Private" letter from Lord Curzon, italic typing with manuscript words in gaps or additions/corrections, 24 Oct. 1904, discussing the situation of Macdonnell with relation to the India Council - appointed to do a job not go on indefinite leave. He explains their need for him and his intention originally to press for his release from Ireland. But he now sees his requirement as "a golden bridge", taking Macdonnell out of a difficult situation. "I do not for a moment suggest that all or a hundredth part of what is attributed to Macdonnell is true. But you know Ireland so well that the fact it is believed by all Unionists certainly invalidates the authority of the Governemnt . . ." He suggest that Wyndham write Macdonnell a diplomatic letter. [In fact, Macdonnell opted to stay in Ireland where the DNB claims he did good work. Macdonnell was praised for his role as Curzon's deputy in India before he went to Ireland.] AND: Copy letter signed, "St John Brodrick", (= Secretary of State for India) to George [Wyndham] with printed heading "Chief Secretary's Lodge, Phoenix park, Dublin", but also in manuscript, "India Office, 24 Oct. [19]04". This is the letter to which Wyndham's draft (above) responds.