Autograph Letters

Edward Levy-Lawson, Newspaper proprietor (1833-1916). He describes a variety of physical ailments to which he is prey but concludes that "My suffering has not diminished my belief in one popularly known as 'Jack Fisher'. . .". Burnham's relationship with Fisher is perhaps explained by his Newspaper, The Daily Telegraph's, support of a "strong navy" policy.

Educationalist and historian (1837-1933). He is delighted to have received his letter and speaks enthusiatically of the past, especially of Sheppard's brother, Bob. He discusses his reading. (He found a character just like himself in the TLS) and looks forward to Sheppard's next book.

Unitarian divine and philosopher. One page, 8vo. He alerts him that a consignment of Hymn Books had been sent to the "Maidstone Congregation", giving the binder's charge, and hoping they prove useful.

Chief Justice of Common Pleas (1776-1846). 2pp., 4to, expresing gratitude for his offer of help but feeling that his "friends are so very assiduous in the Committee Room" that it will be unnecessary. He would welcome his calling by if in the neighbourhood to answer enquiries and doubts.

Artist. One page, 4to. He says that he is Secretary of the Artists' General Benevolent Fund for the year 1938-9 and asks for support for those artists in difficulty in "this period of unrest & uncertainty".

Scottish writer, sportsman and naturalist (1845-1937). 4pp., 4to. He gives detailed answers to questions about members of the Douglas family and finally refers Sladen to his book, "The Story of the Tweed".

Naturalist (1826-1888). 2pp., 8vo, signs of having been laid down, thanking Draper for "the Japanese book on Birds, commenting on the drawings ("wonderfully instinct with life", "suggestion of movement about their portraits of animals or human beings"). he mentions another Japanese book he has "full of grotesque pantomime figures". He goes on to discuss the "Hippocampus" Draper has given him, asking for further information. He concludes with news about the por health of a mutual friend, W.O. Whiteside ("one of the 'wigwams'"(?)).

Statesman (1792-1848). He explains, as a Commissioner of Revenue and at length, why he cannot personally support someone's application for promotion in the Customs. He advises a direct application to the Board of Customs.

Vice-Chancellor (1779-1850). Laid down. He acknowledges receipt of a letter, but is obliged to leave that part of the country.

Political economist. He asks him to look at the enclosed letter "if he thinks it a sufficient authority" and "put Dr Buckland's name under that of Mr Gould".

Unitarian and antiquary (1789-1871). (1851) invitation for Gray, his wife and nephew (1864) Another invitation, anticipating time to look at the "specimens and drawings". 2 items,

Antiquarian and art connoisseur (1857-1929). 3pp., 8vo. He wishes to clarify the view he and his colleagues at the British Museum are taking on "the Thompson memorial", ignoring it since it is a British Academy matter not British Museum.

Anti-slavery editor. One page, 8vo. Thanks for "pacquets of envelopes bearing an anti-slavery device".

Scottish author (1784-1842). One page, 12mo, remnants of laying down, chipped, without loss of text. He is having to return a book which he had intended to review in an "Oxford Literary Journal" which "died a <> death some days ago".

Caricaturist (1861-1945). He declines taking up a suggestion since he is "no longer doing that kind of illustration for 'Punch'".

Politician. 1 and 2pp., 8vo. He discusses an anonymous witness ("la Dame Blanche") in a confidential matter. Later letters discuss a trickster operating in Berkeley's constituency (selling gas without coal with a magnet). He seeks information from Manby whom he believes will have the contacts to get it. Six items,

Statesman. 2pp., 4to. He discusses his wife's health (fever) and the treatment his correspondent has received from the elder brother of a "Dr Vassor" ("scandalously & wickedly used").

Shakespearian critic and author ((1823-1886). 2pp., 8vo. He declines an invitation from the Lord Mayor of London on the grounds of ill health, and announces that he is off to Holkham Hall to visit the Napiers. "We must have a special no of the Reporter for reports of all the speeches". He would also like "all the complete & bound vols of the Reporter . . . out here", guaranteeing immediate payment.

Diplomat and Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland (1752-1825). 2 & 4pp., 8vo. (1820) He expresses gratitude for Mahon's part in getting him membership of the Society of Antiquaries, and discusses his future resolves in its regard. (1822) He renews a request for a portrait of Sir Walter Scott to hang at Knole, and goes into some detail. 2 items,

Artist. One and 2pp., 8vo. (1899) He suggests the steps she must take to arrange the loan a a "miniature table" from the Royal Academy. (1904) He gives permission for his "Diploma Picture" to be reproduced in the "Windsor Magazine", revealing its history (an illustration to Tennyson's lines in "Break, break!"). He later appears to allude to a collection of moutaineering pictures(?). 2 items,

German-English singer, composer and conductor (1850-1934). One page, 8vo, anticipating a meeting and Pollock receiving something illegible, adding that the concerts are going well.

Founder-member of the Fabian Society (1857-1955). 12pp. total, 8vo (3) & 4to (1), (1891) He asks Grinling to work with Henry Snell (M.P. for Woolwich) on preparing a Fabian Tract, suggesting a draft could be shown to the S.E. Committee, outlining what they should say. He also wants a leaflet for "the Guardians Elections", and announces that Sidney Webb on Poor Law will be Tract 17. (1901) His opinion on the "Housing Loan question", a meeting on Boards of Guardians, and the disordered office.

Mother of Rupert, but apparently distinguished in her own right. She sympathises with Connard's "dreadful" life, but her family "feel very troubled that we are so well off for everything and can do almost nothing to help". She goes on to discuss the portrait Connard painted of Rupert and Helen (presumably sister) which "now graces our drawingroom mantelpiece" among distinguished company (John, Sickert, etc.). She mentions finally her two little daughters.

Song writer (1849-1912). 2pp., 8vo. He expresses fulsome gratitude for being allowed to set a lyric (unnamed) to music.

Bishop of Oxford and theologian (1851-1911). One page, 8vo. He would like his correspondent to let Max Muller know when a deferred luncheon is to be held. He will be writing to Dean Liddell (presumably on the same subject).

High Master of St Paul's (1830-1910). One page, 8vo. He gives thanks for a book, adding that "In my younger days I used continuously & valued your abstracts of Gk & Roman History & notes on Herodotus".

Bishop of Oxford and theologian (1851-1911). One page, 8vo. He has enclosed a cheque as an instalment of his contribution to the Dr Pusey Memorial Fund.

Prussian ambassador. One page, 8vo. He announces his arrival (in Italy), gives informnation about his post and what he wants done with it.

2pp., 8vo, chipped, not affecting the text. He expresses a liking for a photograph and tells of a "job" involving the "Immortalite".

Politician (1726-1784). One page, 4to. He announces that he will offer himself as a candidate at the general meeting where there will be consideration "of persons to represent the County in the ensuing Parliament. He looks to his correspondent's support. (Savile started representing Yorkshire in 1759. His colourful political career included support for the American colonies.)