[Cardinal Manning, second Archbishop of Westminster.] Autograph Letter Signed, as Rector of Lavington, asking the owner to lend him the key to the private chapel in Findon Church, so that he can make measurements for a new window for his own church.

At the time of writing Manning was rector of Lavington, Sussex. See his entry in the Oxford DNB, and also Edmund Sheridan Purcell, ‘Manning as an Anglican’ (1895). 3pp, 12mo. Bifolium. In fair condition, lightly aged, with a couple of creases. Folded twice. Signed ‘H. E. Manning.’ The recipient is not named. Begins: ‘My dear Sir / I am going to ask of you a favour by which you would greatly oblige me if you have no objection. It is to lend me the Key of the Private Chapel belonging to you in Findon Church, that I may make a drawing with measurements of the East window, which I wish to copy for my Church. I would not ask this by a messenger if I was not pressed by the necessity of getting my work at Lavington Church finished with all speed.’ He asks the recipient to entrust ‘[McLean?]’ with the key, and undertakes to return it on the Wednesday.