[Julius Parnell Gibson, Keeper of Manuscripts, British Museum.] Two Autograph Letters Signed and one Autograph Note Signed (all three 'J. P. Gibson') to an unnamed woman regarding a collection of 'old deeds', for which he makes an unsuccessful offer.

Casting an interesting sidelight on the purchasing practices of the British Museum Manuscripts Department. All three items in good condition, on lightly-aged paper. Totalling 6pp., 12mo. On three bifoliums. ONE: ALS. 4 December 1912. 3pp., 12mo. As it is 'difficult to advise without further information as to the nature of the old papers' he invites her to 'send them up' so that he can 'report whether there is any probability of their purchase by the Trustees of the British Museum'. If they are 'bulky' he suggests sending 'specimens'. 'Are they deeds?, local records?, correspondence?, private or public?' He gives an address, advises sending by registered post ('or insured by rail'), and states that they would be returned at her expense. TWO: ALS. 14 December 1912. 2pp., 12mo. He has examined 'the old deeds', which are 'all of some interest in connexion with Yorkshire monasteries etc, but the best of them, the visitation of Gisburn is very imperfect'. He feels she may be 'disappointed as to their monetary value. As none of them are of very early date and there are no seals I do not think I could offer to recommend them to the Trustees for more than an average of four shillings each, i.e £2 for the lot'. THREE: ANS. 17 December 1912. 1p., 12mo. Returning the documents by registered post and enclosing '5d surplus stamps'.