Autograph Letter Signed ('James Donnet') to Mrs Hollingworth, discussing autograph collecting.

12mo, 4 pp. Text clear and complete. Very good on lightly-aged paper, with thin strip from stub still adhering. Thanking her for 'sending me the acceptable autographs you have. Though seemingly scraps of paper they possess for the initiated a value, for I believe every individual to be possessed of a romance which opportunity and occasion bring to the fore and make of him a personage whose writing is worthy of preservation. The diamond in its mine is of no value, but when found, cut, and set in its golden framework, it is prized and esteemed'. Defends 'the collector' against criticism. Explains that his 'first reason for collecting autographs originated in the respect I held great men'. Docketed at foot of last page 'Inspector General of Hospitals & Fleets & now Physician to the Queen. This is written when nearly 80 years of age'.