[William Blanchard Jerrold, journalist and author.] Autograph Letter Signed, inviting Charles Manby of the Institute of Civil Engineers to work with him to erect a statue to Sir John Rennie, with cutting of letter by Jerrold on the subject.

Jerrold, Manby and Rennie all have entries in the Oxford DNB. 2pp, 12mo. On bifolium of grey paper. In good condition, lightly aged, with trace of tape from mount adhering to blank reverse of second leaf. Folded twice. Jerrold has tipped in a newspaper cutting of a letter by him to the editor of the Daily News at the head of the first page, proposing ?A STATUE TO SIR JOHN RENNIE?. He states that a thought has stuck him ?more than once while approaching London-bridge from the great railway station situated on the Surrey-side of it?, and suggests a place where it should be placed, considering that ?the suggestion has only to be made public to command the support of a powerful committee?. In the autograph letter to Manby, signed ?W Blanchard Jerrold?, he explains that he published the letter the previous Friday, and that he is ?induced to think the suggestion it contains would meet with extensive support if backed by a powerful committee.? He offers to act, ?with pleasure?, ?in the capacity of Hon: Sec:?. He thinks it is a cause in which Manby ?will & can do good service?, and ?Three or four good professional names, including your own, to head the committee, would promote the object in view, essentially.? He ends by asking if he can be favoured ?with an early word?. It does not appear that the memorial was ever erected.