Two Autograph Letters Signed (both 'James Knowles') to 'Lord Stratford de Redcliffe'.

Both letters good, on lightly aged paper. Both items concern Canning's article on 'International Relations' in the October 1877 issue of 'The Nineteenth Century'. Letter One (12mo, 4 pages, bifolium with mourning border). Knowles hopes Canning has received the proof of the article from the publishers Spottiswoodes. A judicious bit of sycophancy follows. 'Please allow me to repeat how very greatly I am obliged to your lordship for this essay which seems to me to be as readable as it is wise and interesting - The concluding passages of it especially if you will permit me to say so - are precisely what should proceed from such a high standard of Patriotism as you have yourself set up'. Knowles then suggests a passage 'which might as well be omitted', giving his reasons. Letter Two (12mo, 3 pp): Enclosing a cheque (not present) for thirty guineas in payment for the article. Knowles feels that Canning's 'admirable paper' has placed him under 'great obligation': 'The article has been extracted from and referred to in the most respectful & complimentary manner by many of the best & highest journals & cannot fail to do good in various ways'. Knowles considers it 'a contribution to the Subject which is most valuable & exhaustive as to the principles which should favour its application'. He now turns his 'eyes towards your promised paper upon Spain'. While his wife was staying at St Leonards he would have liked to have called on Canning at Frant, 'as you so kindly gave me leave to do - but unfortunately was so tied & bound by work in London that I could only run to & fro' by the quickest & non-stopping trains - & hence, for the time at any rate, lost my opportunity'.