Autograph Letters

Politician (1821-1899). 2pp., 8vo, reporting that Gladstonehas given their “resolution” a positive response and that expressions of“strong feeling” from the north create a good effect in Parliament.

Admiral. One page, 4to, tear not affecting text, discussing his travel plans and meetings.

Professor of Chemistry, Cambridge University (1827-1924). 2pp., 8vo, good. He finds “syllabuses” a reflection of what was considered important at a certain time, and is pleased to have been sent a plan of Wollaston’slectures. He goes on to discuss Wollaston (a predecessor of his in theChair) and the change wrought by his becoming Jacksonian Professor.

Painter. 4 ALSs, 2-3pp., 8vo, good. He asks for payment for a picture so that he can pay rent arrears, reports of his progress with his pictures, “the two Dartmoor streams”. He later talks of other pictures in which Roberrts has an interest (“Mermaid”, “Kennack Bay”, “Cadgwith [Cove]” and others) and his constant need for money. 4 items,

Lawyer (1841-1931). One page, 8vo, good, anticipating exclusion from the House of Commons, but determined to serve his country nevertheless.

French composer. 2pp., 8vo, , referring to a list he has added to the letter of 8 pieces he would like to publish if his correspondent can cooperate. He has the proofs of To the Hills “a votre disposition”, and describes in a postscript a “fantaisie” he has justfinished.

Collector (1760-1830). One page, 8vo, good, giving himpermission to view his pictures.

Painter. He accepts an invitation to lunch.

Architect (1814-1895). 1 and 2pp., 8vo, good, discussing Murray’s specifications for the St Bride’s Foundation which, initially, he has to study. He eventually decides that, subject to minor changes, he will be able to recommend them. Christian was the architect for the National Portrait Gallery and architectto the Ecclesiastical Commission.2 items,

Ist Baron Glenesk, newspaper proprietor (1830-1908), 4pp., 8vo, stained but not obscuring text, giving his reason for not seeing Yates’s “representation”, and planning a pre-luncheon conversation about Napoleon, Palmerston and the like. He is pleased to be given a place in Yates’s “Gallery”.

Statesman, father of Winston (1849-1895). One page, 8vo, good, saying that, although he agrees with a Bill, his official position will not allow him to put his name to it.

Lord Houghton, poet and politician (1809-1885). 2pp., 8vo, damp-staining not obscuring text, inviting his correspondent and wife to the debate on the occupation of Cracow at the House of Commons, giving directions for a meeting afterwards.

Writer on natural history (1780-1868). One page, 8vo, good. He thanks his correspondent for his “interesting pamphlet” and discusses rough drawings of swans he is sending him.

Irish author and editor (1800-1889). One page, 8vo, good. He is thanking his correspondent on behalf of his wife for his contributionof a “little picture . . . in aid of the governess asylum”.

British Museum ceramics expert. One page, 8vo, good. He passes comment on a blue and a yellow pot, dating them, and giving the countries of origin of the yellow pot.

Politician and critic (1759-1835). One page, 12mo, good. He regretfully declines her invitation claiming a prior engagement.

German jurist and historian (1792-1879). In English. 2pp., 8vo, good. He discusses difficulties with a passport which he can help with.

Canon of St Paul’s and wit (1771-1845). One page, 4to, good. some damage, slightly affecting the text, traces of mounting. Smith outlines his travel plans, including a visit to his correspondent. He continues, “We talk of nothing now but bombarding & it is supposed that Troy would have been under such a Cannonade have been taken in 15 or 20 minutes”.

Corsican-Russian diplomat (1764-1842). One page, 12m,, in French, some damage to one word, traces of mounting. He accepts an invitation in gracious terms.

2nd Earl Granville, statesman (1815-1891). One page, 8vo, small portion cut out (place name prob.), ow. good. He claims a prior engagement, presumably after receiving an invitation, and hopes Clarendon is not tired after a long journey.

Social reformer, founder of Hampstead Garden Suburb (1851-1936)(DNB).ANS, on a scrap of packing paper, saying “Given to Ernest Aves[?] inever grateful memory of all he did to and for me. June 17th-21st 1913.Henrietta Barnet”. Her husband, Samuel A. Barnet, has signed another part.

Statesman and man of letters (1838-1928). 3pp., 8vo, good. He and his wife are pleased that their son is happy (presumably at aboarding school). He then expresses his detestation of the sort of touristwho does not enter into the spirit of a place (in this instance, Venice).

Banker and writer (1840-1930). 2pp., 8vo, good. He is asking friends to his home for “chat and supper”, including Bowen.He gives minute directions how to get to his house in Tufnell Park.

French general (1815-1896). On visiting card, two sides, in French. He expresses regret at not being able to see or receive “Mr. Roumieu” inTouraine. He later describes himself as an old friend of England’s.

Novelist and biographer, daughter of W.M. Thackeray (1837-1919). 2pp., 12mo, good. She commends a doctor to May’s mother, Mrs Irving.

French politician (1755-1849). 2pp., 4to, sl. creased. In French with official stamp.He recommends to Persil’s attention a “M. Ducon”, lawyer and “sous-prefet”, describing his exemplary character and his achievements, and requesting an extension of his period in office.

Baron Taunton, statesman (1798-1869). 2pp., 4to, good. He has been sent some material relating to the Merchant Seamen’s Billand relates it to his own views on the matter.

Painter (1842-1921). 2 ANSs, 8vo, good. In the first letter, he says that he has rested and feels able to continue with the sittings. In the second, he asks if he can exhibit her portrait at the “Grosvenor”. 2 items,

Judge (1796-1880). One page, 8vo, good. He asks for an opinion on whether someone could procure a patent on the basis of some papers he is sending to him.

Novelist. Signature with part of subscription ("yours truly / Thos Highes"), on piece of paper c.1.5 x 0.75", good condition.