Finding aid for Letters of British authors, 1770-1915
Onica Busuioceanu.
Descriptive Summary
Title: Letters of British authors
Date (inclusive): 1770-1915
Number: 860525B
Creator/Collector:
Getty Research Institute.
Research Library
Physical Description:
150 letter(s)
Repository:
The Getty Research Institute
Special Collections
1200 Getty Center Drive, Suite 1100
Los Angeles 90049-1688
reference@getty.edu
URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10020/askref
(310) 440-7390
Abstract: This collection, assembled by the
repository, comprises 150 letters sent by 73 persons between 1770 and 1915 with the bulk
sent between the 1840s-1890s. The authors of the letters include British editors,
publishers, writers, art critics, politicians, archaeologists, scientists, writers on
architecture, and writers of dictionaries.
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Language: Collection material is in
English .
Administrative Information
Access
Open for use by qualified researchers.
Publication Rights
Preferred Citation
Letters of British authors, 1770-1915, Research Library, The Getty Research Institute,
Accession no. 860525B.
http://hdl.handle.net/10020/cifa860525b
Acquisition Information
Assembled by the repository from many acquisitions, 1983-1990
Processing History
Processed and cataloged by Onica Busuioceanu. The items in this collection were formerly
part of the British artists letters collection (accession number 860525). They were
separated when that collection was cataloged.
Scope and Content of Collection
The collection comprises 150 letters sent by 73 persons. The letters are dated from 1770 to
1915, with the bulk from the 1840s to the 1890s. Three letters are dated from 1770, 1791 and
1798, and 24 are from the first quarter of the 20th century. The authors of the letters
cover a large variety of activities and professions, including British editors, publishers,
lecturers, writers, art critics, politicians, mathematicians, archaeologists, antiquarians,
botanists, naturalists, educational writers, authors on architecture and of
dictionaries.
Among the most significant letters are those signed by the biographer Mackenzie Bell to
William Michael Rossetti (1), the art historian John Britton (4), the lecturer William
Kingdon Clifford (a manuscript page), the writer Louisa Stuart Costello (6), the publisher
Robert Duncan(?) (1), the archaeologists Sir Arthur John Evans (2) and Sir John Evans (5),
the biographer James Granger (1), the antiquarian Thomas Leman (1), the biographer Henry
Currie Marillier (2), the author on architecture John Henry Parker (1), the popular science
lecturer John Henry Pepper (2), the archaeologist Frederick George Hilton Price (2), the art
dictionaries author Samuel Redgrave (2), the Irish poet and lecturer George William Russell
(5), the editor William Noel Sainsbury (2), the biographical dictionary author Thomas
Humphrey Ward (7), the archaeologist Albert Way (6), the poet Frederick Edward Weatherby
(1), with verses and illustration, and the art critic and writer Sir Frederick Wedmore
(7).
Arrangement note
Arranged alphabetically.
Indexing Terms
Subjects - Names
Weatherby, Frederick Edward
Way, Albert,
1805-1874
Wedmore, Frederick, Sir,
1844-1921
Russell, George William,
1867-1935
Redgrave, Samuel,
1802-1876
Ward, Thomas Humphry,
1845-1926
Sainsbury, William Noel,
1825-1895
Britton, John,
1771-1857
Clifford, William Kingdon,
1845-1879
Costello, Louisa Stuart,
1799-1870
Evans, Arthur, Sir, 1851-1941
Bell, Mackenzie,
1856-1930
Marillier, H. C. (Henry
Currie), 1865-1951
Parker, John Henry, 1806-1884
Pepper, John Henry,
1821-1900
Price, F. G. Hilton (Frederick
George Hilton), 1842-1909
Evans, John, 1823-1908
Granger, James, 1723-1776
Leman, Thomas,
1751-1826
Subjects - Topics
Authors -- Great Britain -- Correspondence
Contributors
Getty Research Institute.
Research Library
box 1, folder 1
Appleton, Charles Edward Cutts Birch (1841-1879, editor of
The Academy),
1875, 1878
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Informs his correspondent that his papers on art traditions are going to be published
this year. He wants to "work out" this subject and publish a book, for he thinks it is
"likely to be popular" (1875 Jan. 4) 2 p.
Writes to William Michael Rossetti from Naples, that he is delighted by his trip to the
"land of Pharaohs." He is going to Rome, and will soon see him to discuss the question
of his letter (1878 May 14) 1 p.
box 1, folder 2
Arundell, Frances Vyvyan Jago (1780-1846, traveler, author,
antiquary),
1834
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Brockedon that Balley(?) will publish his book [about his travels in Asia
Minor], "and the printing has already commenced." His companion on the journey, a
talented draftsman, refuses to give him the sketches, so he must use his own. Indicates
where they are, "rolled up together," asking him to retrieve and send them. Encloses the
list of the 12 ancient sites (post stamp Portland, 1834 Mar. 10) 4 p.
box 1, folder 3
Atkinson, Joseph Beavington (1822-1886, author and art critic),
1864
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Sends the editor [of the
Art Journal?] his review of the
new watercolor exhibition. He asks that it be printed in large type, as before,
"otherwise all my labour and possible skill will barely escape oblivion" (1864 Apr. 25).
2 p.
Asks William Michael Rossetti the favor of a ticket for the "performance of the Cenci"
(1886 Apr. 28). 1 p.
box 1, folder 4
Bell, Mackenzie (1856-1930, writer),
1896
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes William Michael Rossetti that he is ready to hand him a copy of his study about
his sister, Christina Rossetti. Bell asks his permission to include some reproductions
of her portraits (1896 Aug. 29). 2 p.
box 1, folder 5
Blackett, H. (publisher),
1861
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
The London publisher H. Blackett informs William Hepworth Dixon that two interesting
volumes can be published from the Kimbolton [castle] correspondence. His company is
willing to pay 500 guineas for the right to print them, and hopes that this proposal
"will be satisfactory to His Grace and yourself" (1861 Jan. 21). 2 p.
box 1, folder 6
Britton, John (1771-1857, art historian),
1852, 1854-1855
Scope and Content Note
5 letters
Returns to unidentified publisher (?) the volume on Stothard, for which he has had "the
opportunity of recommending 3 copies." He asks for "an impression of Stothard's
portrait" for his Gallery of artists (1852 Feb. 1). 1 p.
Sends J. Hogarth the only copies he has left of his book
Fine arts
of the English school
, "one with proofs and etchings," indicating the price
(1852 June 9). 1 p.
Writes to Roberts (R.A.) that he will not visit Stanford this summer. He encloses a
copy of his book to be forwarded to the Baroness, to give her "some idea of the manner
and style in which I should endeavour to write a history of Stanford" (1852 July 31). 2
p.
Thanks R. Cooke for a "gratifying proof" of his dear friend Crabbe,. He will send "some
trifling memorial" of his friendship (1854 May 27). 1 p.
Sends Mr. Morley a bill paid on June 15 1854 (1855 Apr. 14). 1 p.
box 1, folder 7
Christmas, Henry (1811-1868, author),
1861
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Explains to an unidentified correspondent that his opinion about which engraver made
the half pennies of Queen Anne was based on the chronology of the Pingo family, their
position at the mint and of other engravers working there (1861 Apr. 10). On letterhead
of the
Literary Gazette. 4 p.
box 1, folder 8
Clifford, William Kingdon (1845-1879, mathematician, philosopher, writer and
lecturer on popular science),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 item
Manuscript page with some editing analyzes the relation between sensation of sight,
perception and conception, presumably in preparation for one of Clifford's popular
lectures, like those posthumously published in
Seeing and
thinking
(unsigned). 1 p.
box 1, folder 9
Costello, Dudley (1803-1865, writer, artist),
1856-1857, undated
Scope and Content Note
3 letters
Writes to (indecipherable), presumably an editor of
Athenaeum, where he has written the art notices in 1853-1854. He asks him for
a reference, because he needs to apply "for the continued office of Secretary to the
Photographic Society and editor of the
Photographic
journal
, now offered for competition by advertisment" (1856 Jan. 18). 2 p.
Complains to the editor of
Athenaeum about some objections
made to the spelling of words in the first line of "Malbrouk," explaining in detail that
they are absolutely correct [1857]. 2 p.
Sends payment for a two-year subscription to a review from which he thinks he did not
received all the issues in the past (undated). 2 p.
box 1, folder 10
Costello, Louisa Stuart (1799-1870, writer),
1838-1869, undated
Scope and Content Note
6 letters
Writes to Frazer, the editor of her book
Persian poets,
that she is returning the proofs of the first series, and asks to be paid for the
delivered part (1838 Oct. 1). 2 p.
Thanks a critic for the "very kind and indulgent" review of her new book [
A summer among the bocages and the vines]. He had already done
that for her
Early poetry of France, with his "learned and
obligingly review some time ago" (1840 Aug. 1). 3 p.
Writes a friendly, gossipy letter, presumably to an editor at the
Athenaeum, suggesting some book reviews she could write besides the one she
is currently working on. She will send her "serious pages to Wellington" (1842? July
17). 4 p.
Writes to Mrs. Reid that she is pleased she liked her
Lay of the
stork
, since "the world is now occupied with a poetical work so opposite in
style by Mr. Browning," whose poem [
The ring and the book]
is "a strange and I think dangerous composition - but very popular!" [ca. 1869]. 3
p.
Sends Mrs. Reid one pound for a charity fund [ca. 1869]. 1 p.
Notifies Isabella Hall that she is going to London for one week, and advises her not to
sit more than two hours doing miniature painting; "longer than three, one never does
anything well" (undated). 3 p.
box 1, folder 11
Cutts, Edward Lewes (1824-1901, author),
1875
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes S.C. Hall that his papers to be published in the
Art
Journal
have been in their hands for more than a year. If they cannot be
published in two years, he would like to make other arrangements (1875 Jan. 4). 2 p.
box 1, folder 12
Dale, A. W. W. (Alfred William Winterslow), Sir (1855-1926,
author),
1898
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Thanks Reverend Samuel Pearson for his appreciation of his father's biography, which
has required "a long and laborious effort" (1898 Nov. 27). 2 p.
box 1, folder 13
Dallaway, James (1763-1834, author),
1831
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Acknowledges Mr. Smith's intention of presenting him with his prints from the Burrell
collection. Nevertheless, he thinks that they should be given to some friend who would
be glad to "have it in his power to patronize the work" (1831 Feb. 14). 1 p.
box 1, folder 14
Dalyell, John Graham, Sir (1775-1851, author),
1847
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to his advertising agent to place an ad asking for a painter of miniatures, and
to give the applicants his address (1847 May 18). 1p.
box 1, folder 15
Dasent, George Webbe, Sir (1817-1896, author,
Times editor),
1859
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Sends to an unidentified person a letter marked "Private" regarding the charges made by
Mr. Hamilton against the
Times, for publishing a letter he
considers libelous (1859 June 24). 4 p.
box 1, folder 16
De Vere, Aubrey (1814-1902, poet and author),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to John Ruskin trying to fix a dinner date and place convenient to both of them.
He is ready to go to Ruskin's, "and I shall hope to see some more of your beautiful
drawings!" 2 p.
box 1, folder 17
Dobell, Sydney (1824-1874, poet and writer) after
1843
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Sends his friend John Hunter an enthusiastic letter of recommendation for the painter
Edwin Williams, who is on his way to Edinburgh. He is "one of the few Englishmen who
have raised portrait painting to the region of high art." 4 p.
box 1, folder 18
Du Maurier, George (1834-1896, illustrator, novelist),
1893
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Thanks Philip [Burne-Jones?] for telling "this old scribe" about the pleasure he had
reading his book,
Peter Ibbetson, which has also pleased
Philip's father. He agrees that a "very keen remembrance of early youth is the most
precious possession, and it increases in value with age" (Hampstead, New Grove House
(1893 Jan.10). 3 p.
box 1, folder 19
Duncan (?) Robert (publisher),
1906
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Mr. Swain about the selection of portraits for a work to be published. Among
the names mentioned are 19th century editors of
Punch
magazine, such as Douglas Jerrold, Henry Mayhew, Mark Lemon, and Sir Francis Burnand
(Dalchonzie, Comrie, Pertshire, 1906 Aug. 11). 4 p.
box 1, folder 20
Duppa, Richard (1770-1831, author, draftsman, engraver) ,
1825-1826 undated
Scope and Content Note
5 letters
Sends Mr. Smith at the British Museum the date when the late H. Edrige was elected to
the Royal Academy (1825 Nov. 16). 2 p.
Sends to Mrs. Smith the answer he has not been able to give earlier, writing for her a
chronological list of the old calendars, from that of an Egyptian monk, ca. 395 A.D., to
the Gregorian (1826). 4 p.
Asks Mr. Phillips where he saw "the best works of Cimabue," and if those of Giotto he
spoke about are in the Annunziata church (undated). 1 p.
Sends a list of important works of art and old manuscripts to someone who will be
traveling to Italy to see in various cities (undated). 4 p.
Informs Thomas Phillips that the only copy of his work is currently lent to a friend,
but he will gladly lend it to him after it is returned (undated). 1 p.
box 1, folder 21
Evans, Arthur John, Sir (1851-1941, archaeologist, author)
1898, 1908
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Writes to Culton that he and the Museum have been "at such a low financial ebb" that
they could not send any money to the Egypt Exploration fund (1898 Feb. 27). 2 p. On
Ashmolean Museum letterhead.
Writes to Sir William B. Richmond that he prefers to "work up results" before
proceeding with further excavations in Crete. The [Knossos] Palace is almost completely
explored, and he would be very grateful to anyone who gave £ 1000 to "conserve and cover
over the Hall of the Double Axes" (1908 Aug. 29). 3 p.
box 1, folder 22
Evans, John, Sir (1823-1908, archaeologist, numismatist, author),
1865-1886
Scope and Content Note
5 letters
Sends to the curator of Leeds Museum "specimens of worked flints" from
Perpigny-le-Grand he had written about in the
Birmingham Daily
Gazette
of Sept. 12 (1865 Oct. 12). 2 p.
Returns to Copeland two "sixpence of Elizabeth," with comments about their value (1873
Dec. 10). 2 p.
Writes to J. Roberts Brown about the lists of memorial rings with a motto, and "the
custom to present them at 17th [century] early funerals" (1883 Oct. 11). 3 p.
Writes to Copeland that he will inquire if his son Arthur has "time and inclination to
catalogue the Soane Museum gems." He himself is not interested in "qualifying for Bedlam
or Bridewell … just at present." (1866 Mar. 3). 3 p.
Informs Copeland whom he should contact for his membership in the Society of
Antiquaries. As he is its president, he cannot take "an active part" in the process, but
will recommend him (1886 Apr. 14). 3 p.
box 1, folder 23
Friswell, James Hain (1825-1878, writer),
1868
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Asks Joseph Swain to help the young artist Edgar Porteous, "who promises
something"(1868 Jan. 18). 1 p.
box 1, folder 24
Gough, Richard (1735-1809, author, antiquarian),
1807
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to his antiquarian friend Samuel Lysons introducing the "very ingenious
draughtsman Mr. Buckler," who wishes to show him some of his recent works. Gough is
eager to see the second volume of his friend (Enfield, 1807 May 27). 1 p.
box 1, folder 25
Granger, James (1723-1776, biographer),
1770
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Comments on the suggestions received from an unidentified person about his recent book,
Biographical history of England. He explains the plan of
the work, which includes a methodical catalog of engraved portraits. He also discusses
the suggestion of Dr. Andrew Coltee Ducarel to publish a "list of portraits not
engraved" (Shiplake, 1770 Apr. 3). 2 p.
box 1, folder 26
Greenwell, William (1820-1918, archaeologist),
1871
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to an unidentified correspondent details about some old skeletons found in
sepulchral mounds, explaining various details which include signs of cannibalism. More
questions will be answered when the full account of his research is published (Durham,
1871 Aug. 14). 6 p.
box 1, folder 27
Hare, Augustus John Cuthbert (1834-1903. author),
1869-1899, undated
Scope and Content Note
10 letters
Informs Lyte that they are so glad to have him as a guest, that he will postpone his
trip to Hurstmonceaux, and lists other persons who will come around the same time
(Holmhurst, Hastings, 1869 Aug.1). 2 p.
Writes to Miss Kuper(?) that he is distressed to hear about her mother's "sad trial."
He is very sick with "the most violent winter coughs" (Holmhurst, 1878 Feb 15). 3 p.
Expresses to Mrs. Leslie his regrets for not being able to attend her "little party"
since he had offered to take care of his old cousin, Lady Williamson (1875 June 28). 1
p.
Thanks Sir Thomas for the "kind interest he has taken in the case of poor young Henry
Holden," who is grateful for the "smallest word of hope or encouragement" (Holmhurst,
1878 Aug. 26). 2 p.
Thanks Miss Agnes Maxwell Lyte for her invitation, but he has dinner engagements until
he reaches London, and is also expecting guests next day (Holmhurst, 1891 Apr. 8). 6 p.
and envelope.
Accepts Mr. Stephens invitation to dinner (1893 Mar. 6). 1 p.
Looking forward to Friday's tea with Jimmy (1893 Apr. 22) 1 p.
Informs Lyte about his trip in Normandie, listing about 40 towns, and recommending Mt.
Saint Michel and Landebec "really worth for an artist to go." The Hotel de la Marine is
"deliciously comfortable, the Seine exquisite," and the place easily reached from Dieppe
(1894 June 30). 4 p.
Answers an old acquaintance of his family that he has not yet seen the book he had
mentioned - presumably by his uncle, the archdeacon Julius Charles Hare. He remembers
the cedar tree on his uncle's lawn at his rectory in Hurstmonceaux, and mentions several
persons who have letters from him (Holmhurst, St. Leonard's on Sea, 1899 Jan. 21). 4
p.
Note penciled in the absence of his friend, Edward Clifford, containing his
"impertinent impressions," presumably after seeing a portrait paintings exhibition. They
are numbered 1 to 14. No. 3: "Lady Pembroke - splendid - a glorious picture - the best
possible phase of her." No. 8: "Wilfred Ashley - "what a hideous dress and ugly posture.
I can't bear this picture." No. 10 - "Lady Gladys - not her - wants the grand
self-contained expression - too like a Sibyl waiting inspiration which has not come."
(undated), 3 p. Signed.
box 1, folder 28
Heath, Francis George (1843-1913, botanist, author
Scope and Content Note
Writes to an unidentified woman about the fern sample she has sent him, and indicates
the illustration of that variety in his book,
Fern world
(1877 Aug. 17). 3p.
Apologizes to the same person for the delay of his answer, but he has just returned
from a "tour on the Continent" (1877 Oct. 13). 3 p.
box 1, folder 29
Hoblyn, Richard Dennis (1803-1886, educational writer),
1829
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to his niece, Mrs. West, who has sent him a copy of a medal of Ceres. The plough
on the reverse, he says, is the Grecian one of Hesiod, while the one represented in his
own sketch is the Roman plough of Virgil. He would like to see other details (1829 Oct.
20). 4 p.
box 1, folder 30
Hofland, Barbara (1770-1844, writer),
1844
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Sir Martin [Shee?], "to entreat an admission" for three friends of hers who
want to visit the "magnificent" picture collection of Lord Frances Egerton. She mentions
that one of them, Mr. Young, "has himself a fine collection of paintings" (Richmond,
1844, June 7). 1 p.
box 1, folder 31
Hope, William Henry St. John, Sir (1854-1919, author of heraldry texts)
1899,
1914
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Writes to D. Gessopp suggesting a few books he could send him. He also advises him that
he must make very clear that "the rood loft of a parish church was not identical with
the
pulpitum of a cathedral… .and was merely a music
gallery on festivals, and that the Epistle and Gospel were not read from it" (1899 June
26). 3 p.
Sends a thank you note to Jones (?) for his congratulations, adding that "the matter
seems to have given much satisfaction to many friends." (1914
July 28). 1 p.
box 1, folder 32
Hornsey, J. (draftsman and educational author),
1798
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to W. Serwell that he is a "constant reader of your magazine," and would gladly
offer several "most picturesque" drawings if Serwell published a favorable description
of his recently issued English grammar. In postscript he lists the
Copperplate magazine issues that include some of his drawings
(Scarbrough, 1798 June 7). 1 p.
box 1, folder 33
Humphreys, Henry Noël (1810-1879, artist and polymath author) 1855,
undated
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Writes to his friend "Great Rex," whose recent book seems to be his "reminiscences of a
marine officer." Humphreys has taken a short tour with young Noël, who was "much pleased
… with the collegiate architecture of Oxford" (1855 Oct. 2). 4 p.
Writes to his printer about the "plates of coiled flowers," adding that when "certain
blocks are slightly modified … they will sell the book." He explains the changes to be
made to the "tones of colour," and the use of "neutral tint." On the last page, the
author gives a sample for the plate bearing the names of the flowers (undated). 4 p.
box 1, folder 34
Hyndman, Henry Mayers (1842-1921, politician and author),
1896
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Informs Miss Laurence that the death of William Morris "upset us a great deal and we
shall not be in tonight. We knew him very intimately" (1896 Oct. 8). Postcard.
box 1, folder 35
Ingram, John Henry (1842-1916, author),
1883
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Asks William Michael Rossetti if he would "kindly come" to the annual dinner of the
Whitefriars club. In postscript he adds that Mrs. Rossetti may "inspect the remainder
(subject to alterations) of the Memoir shortly; it is with Madox Brown" (1883 Jan. 23).
2.p.
box 1, folder 36
Ireland, John (d. 1808, author),
1790-1791
Scope and Content Note
2 receipts
Ireland wrote two almost identical receipts on both sides of one paper, acknowledging
payments received "from Mr. Nicol for business done in 1790 [and respectively 1791] for
Mssrs Boydell." 2 p.
box 1, folder 37
Knight, Henry Gally (1786-1846, author),
1841
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Asks his editor to send him another copy of the last pages of the new edition of his
Architectural tour in Normandy proof, because he has
burned them by error along with the old copy, and needs to edit them (1841 June 7). 2
p.
box 1, folder 38
Leman, Thomas (1751-1826, antiquary, author),
1822
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Sends to John Trevelyan the promised syllabus - a lapidary description of the
architectural shape and elements of Great Britain's churches of Saxon, Norman and Gothic
periods, from the 7th to the beginning of the 16th century (1822, Apr. 1). 2 p.
box 1, folder 39
Loftie, William John (1839-1911, author),
1877-1903
Scope and Content Note
7 letters
Informs a publisher that he is editing "a selection of the remains" of his late friend,
Godfrey Faussett' writings for "limited publication." He wants to print a poem
translated by Faussett into Latin, along with its English original (1877 Oct. 15). 1
p.
Writes to Mr. Moor that, given the growing demands, the
Faussett's
Memorial
should be reprinted, and suggests financing solutions (1878 June 18).
3 p. A J. Parker and Co. card announcing the delivery of the
Memorial is pasted on the letter.
Thanks Miss Bradley for remembering his wish to call on her before his departure for
Australia (1885 Jan. 26). 1 p.
Thanks Richard C. Jackson for suggesting that the Queen's copy of Service book he owns
should be reproduced in Loftie's book. As his work is already in the process of being
printed, the art department would not agree to engrave it (1902 June 3). 2 p.
R.C. Jackson's answer is copied and signed by him on the back of Loftie's letter of
June 3. He insists on the "immense interest to everyone" of such a reproduction, which
would make Loftie's book even more beautiful (1902 June 3). 2 p.
Loftie sends Jackson a short answer, referring him to his former letter (1902 June 1?).
Envelope postmarked 1902 June 6. Derogatory comments of Jackson (signed) on the bottom
of page. 1 p.
Thanks Miss Simeon who sent him a bookplate. He sends her one of his own, engraved for
an ancestor, William Loftie of Kent, in 1725 (1903 July 14). 1 p.
box 1, folder 40
Marillier, Henry Currie (1865-1951, author),
1899, 1905
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Thanks W. M. Rossetti for the pictures. They will be photographed and returned to him
when he gets back from Scotland (1899 Apr. 21). 1 p.
Thanks a correspondent who has pointed out a few mistakes in his Rossetti monograph
(1905 May 14). 1 p.
box 1, folder 41
Marston, Westland (1819-1890, poet and playwright),
1878
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Thanks Ford Maddox Brown for his invitation, which with much regret he was obliged to
forego because he is still suffering "from an affection of the head." He hopes that his
friend will find time in his busy schedule for "the pleasure of an occasional chat."
(1878 Jan. 6). 3 p.
box 1, folder 42
Martin, Theodore, Sir (1816-1909, author, translator ),
1896
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Barton about "the Leonardo hand published by old Dominic Colnaghi," from whom
he bought a copy, and who had told him that "he had scarcely sold any copies! So much
for British taste" (1896 Sept. 25). 1 p.
box 1, folder 43
Mitford, Bertram (1855-1914, writer)
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Informs Northern Figaro that he has asked a company to send them a copy of his
"Expiation of Wynne Palliser" for review. At their request, he sends a biographical
note, and a portrait taken by Cassell and Co. for their Artists and Authors Portrait
Gallery. He asks for a copy of the issue in which they published information about him
and his work, giving his "standing address" in London (1896 Sept. 6). 2 p.
box 1, folder 44
Munby, Arthur, J. (1828-1910, poet and civil servant),
1896
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Sends Sir Theodore Martin an encomiastic analysis of his translation of the Aeneid,
which he is savoring slowly, with the original at hand. He will spend Christmas at his
brother's rectory in a village rich in splendid tombs, old customs and carols from
Elizabeth's days (1896 Dec. 24). 4 p.
box 1, folder 45
Nelson, Edward Miles (1851-1938, author of mathematical tables),
1907
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Wm.? Cooper, discussing the calculations found in a book about the Zimbabwe
ruins of an ancient temple (1907 Feb 3). 8 p.
box 1, folder 46
Newman, Edward (1801-1876, naturalist, author),
1869, 1874
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Answers S. R. Tellusternhagh (?), discussing the main characteristics of a specimen he
had sent him and concluding that his correspondent's cooperation will be highly
appreciated (1869 Dec. 23). 2 p.
Thanks a friend for the invitation but he must pay a belated visit to his brothers. He
explains the need to change the name of several species (1874 June 4). 2 p. Illustrated
with comical sketches in ink.
box 1, folder 47
Oliver, Basil (b.1882, author on architecture),
1921-1922, undated
Scope and Content Note
10 letters
Ten letters received in 1921-1922: nine are answers from persons he had invited to give
a lecture or participate in discussions organized at the Art-Workers Guild. One is from
the American architect Thomas Hastings, who is very interested in Oliver's activity for
the protection of ancient monuments (undated). 2 p.
box 1, folder 48
Palliser, Fanny [Mrs. Bury Palliser] (1805-1878, author on minor
arts),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Mr. Hall that the Museum "swarms with models for industrial art," and she is
"very willing to enter into any arrangement" if he deems her competent (undated). 2
p.
box 1, folder 49
Parker, John Henry (1806-1884, author on architecture),
1841
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Asks J.G. Nicholson (presumably his editor) to send him an expensive Index not included
in the London catalogue (whose advertising has been included with the letter). He
describes his travels for collecting fresh materials to be used in the 4th edition of
the
Glossary of architecture. Asks if the
Gentleman's magazine has published a notice about his Companion
to the glossary (1841 Sept. 18). 2 p.
box 1, folder 50
Pepper, John Henry (1821-1900, popular science author/lecturer),
1863, 1864
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Writes to an unidentified person that he would be happy to lecture, indicating the
price and conditions. Recommends three lectures on chemistry, under the title "Ancient
fiery ordeal" on the handling of red hot metals (1863 July 9). 2 p. on letterhead of
Polytechnic Institution.
Letter written on behalf of J.H. Pepper to an unidentified person, asking permission to
lend to Mr. Rogs(?), godson of the late Earl Cornwallis, the beautiful pictures he had
lent to him (1864 Jan. 22). 1 p. on Royal Polytechnic Institution letterhead.
box 1, folder 51
Pidgeon, Henry (editor?),
1848
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Informs John Gough Nichols that he mentioned to Joseph Morris "the matter relative to
Colonel Jones the Regicide," and he said that he can "justify the accuracy of what he
had written from documentary evidence." Pidgeon will take care that Nichols shall have
the Memoirs of the late Earl of Powis "in good time for the next Magazine" (Shrewsbury,
1848 Feb. 28). 3 p.
box 1, folder 52
Price, Frederick George Hilton (1842-1909, archaeologist),
1887, 1889
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Informs G.H. Haydon that he will be in town for several weeks, and would be pleased to
see him again (London, 1887 Oct. 19). 1 p.
Answers a letter of G. H. Haydon, who has seemingly discovered a Roman villa, teaching
him how to dig around the walls without causing any damage, and how to investigate
afterwards the interior. He will gladly answer further questions, since he has "some
experience in Roman villas," and still has "much to do with it" (Chester, 1889 Oct. 13).
4 p.
box 1, folder 53
Quilter, Harry (1851-1907, author),
1902
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Reproaches the editor of the
Star magazine for the "nasty
and uncalled-for criticisms about his recent book
What's
what
(1902 Feb. 18). 2 p.
box 1, folder 54
Radford, Ernest, fl. 1883-1908, author, literary editor of
The Artist),
1883
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Thanks William Michael Rossetti for the list of photographs of his brother's paintings.
For now he needs only "The beloved," and includes a check. But he asks for the privilege
of seeing them "all together in your house." Sends his paper about "Dante's dream"
picture (1883 July 2). 2 p.
box 1, folder 55
Rawlinson, Henry Creswicke, Sir (1810-1895, author),
1884, undated
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Answers A. Hale that he cannot suggest any author who wrote about Ptolemy's figures
related to the geography of Western Europe. He has published himself about Ptolemy's
maps in the
Journal of the Geographical Society, vol. 10
(1884 Jan. 7). 2 p.
Sends regrets that he was not informed sooner about a funeral, in order to make
arrangements to attend it (undated). 2 p.
box 1, folder 56
Redgrave, Samuel (1802-1876, author of art catalogs and dictionaries)
1865,
1873
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Thanks Mrs. Richard Barnett for offering some miniatures by Burch for an exhibit, but
the catalog is already in print (1865 May 16). 2 p. Blind stamp of Council of Education.
Kensington Museum.
Asks Mrs. R. Barnett if she could supply any information about Edward Burch to add to
"the very meager account we have on him" (1873 Feb. 25). On letterhead announcing the
Dictionary of Artists in print. 2 p.
box 1, folder 57
Ritchie, Anne Thackeray (1837-1919, writer),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 item
Illustrated letter: on upper half of the page, a father in an armchair holds a little
girl on his knee, and a young boy stands next to them. Below the drawing are five lines
in large handwriting, which start with "My dear Cha," and continue in a nursery rhyme
style (undated). 1 p., unsigned. Note penciled on top, signed (?) LE : Thackeray Anne to
Charles Ritchie.
box 1, folder 58
Russell, George William (1867-1935, Irish poet, lecturer, editor)
1909, 1911, undated
Scope and Content Note
5 letters
Writes to an old friend that his preferred poets were inspired by the love of freedom:
Tennyson (a "Poet of Revolt"), Wordsworth, Kingsley's Alton Locke, and Arthur Hugh
Clough, from whose poem "The new Sinai" he transcribes five verses (1909 Aug. 27). 8
p.
Thanks a correspondent for the Committee invitation, but he cannot accept it because of
his engagements (1911, Dec. 1). 1 p.
Thanks an archdeacon for his congratulations. He is honored by the request of a lecture
about "The English Church from 1750 to 1800" (undated). 3 p.
Informs a correspondent that he cannot accept a lecture invitation because he has "a
permanent literary engagement," which keeps him in London (undated). 3 p.
Thanks Dr. Gowers for his suggestive title, and he will "gird up" his mind "for a
struggle with some really hard thinking" (undated). 1 p.
box 1, folder 59
Sainsbury, William Noël (1825-1895, editor)
1857, 1858
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Sends William Hookham Carpenter a prospectus of his work on Rubens about which they had
some conversations, and which is now "in printer's hands." It includes Carpenter's
translations of letters copied from his Memoir to Van Dyck. He is also sending him a
list of subscription to the Rubens volume. Offers Carpenter the transcript of some
letters he has found regarding Van Dyck's visit to Antwerp in 1633 (1857 Feb. 27). 3
p.
W. H. Carpenter returns to Sainsbury the subscribers list in which he has entered the
Society of Lincoln's Inn for one copy of the Rubens book (1858 March 15). 1 p.
box 1, folder 60
Sayce, Archibald Henry (1845-1933, author, linguist,
Assyriologist),
1898
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Miss Treely (?) at his return after a winter spent in Egypt, which has been a
"great success archaeologically, but climatically abominable." The Anthropological
Institute expects an extract, but it can't be published before they find out the name of
the place where a dozen large vases were found in some caves (1898 May 31). 4 p.
box 1, folder 61
Smith, Sidney (1771-1845, clergyman, writer and wit),
1837
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Sends his friend, Lord John Russell, a letter of humorous allusions to a previous
conversation (Berkley Square, 1837 June 30). 1 p.
box 1, folder 62
Sowerby, George Brettingham I (1788-1854, author of seashells illustrated rare
books),
1842, undated
Scope and Content Note
2 letters
Informs L. Reeve that the paper for Carniaria and Clausilia was sent to the printer,
but he should order more reams of paper for the 30 plates recently ordered (1842 Apr.
13). 1 p.
Sends his aunt "an old performance newly done up," but he intends to draw for her
something new, worthy of her acceptance. He will soon come to see her scrapbook
(undated). Written on the verso of a colored drawing, signed. 2 p.
box 1, folder 63
Spiers, Richard Phené (1838-1916, author on architecture),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Informs Mr. Holland that Mr. Jackson has written to him from Constantinople that he had
been "consulted about the condition of St. Sophia, and was going to write a report on
it." Spiers asks to see the account before being sent to Jackson" (undated). 4 p.
box 1, folder 64
Stephen, Leslie, Sir (1832-1904, author),
1896
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Informs unspecified correspondents that, since they did not make any arrangements for
his lecture, he wants to cancel it (1896 Apr. 23, Brighton). 2 p.
box 1, folder 65
Thoms, William John (1803-1885, antiquarian, editor?),
1836
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Returns to J.W.(?) Kelly his "Grecian legend," because it is too long, and there is an
"abundance of materials already in store." Thoms does not want to keep it for months
before publication (Kensington, 1836 Apr. 26). 1 p.
box 1, folder 66
Wallis, Henry (1830-1916, artist and author),
1899
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Invites Stephens to dinner next week. Since he checks booksellers' catalogues, maybe he
has seen any new books on Etruscan art, perhaps a French one? Has he seen Villani's
Chronicles in Italian lately? (Upper Norwood, 1899 June 30). 1 p.
box 1, folder 67
Ward, Thomas Humphrey (1845-1926, author, editor),
1886, 1894, undated
Scope and Content Note
7 letters
Sample of a standard request (no addressee name) for a "short account of your life"
sent to persons of interest to be inserted in the new edition of his dictionary
Men of the Time (1886 Nov. 5). 1 p.
Informs W. Rossiter that he cannot lend his Cuyp and Vermeer paintings to the South
London Art Gallery this year (1894 Jan. 10). 1 p.
Writes a "dear old friend" that he should come to visit and tell all about the news of
his happiness. Sends warmest congratulations (undated). 3 p.
Sends an associate the proof of the Dyer biography, asking him to add the place of
birth and death as well as other facts of his life (undated) 1 p.
Two short notes carry instructions to his typists (undated) 2 p.
Short note asking for a Royal Academy ticket (undated) 1 p.
box 1, folder 68
Way, Albert (1805-1874, archaeologist, author),
1844-1867, undated
Scope and Content Note
6 letters
Informs an unidentified correspondent about the terms and conditions under which anyone
may participate in the British Archaeological Association goal to "gain knowledge" of
all the "antiquities of our country," to have them described, and protected if
necessary. He also mentions the
Archaeological journal, and
includes a circular of their incoming congress (1844 Aug. 15). On letterhead of British
Archaeological Association. 4 p.
Writes R. Easton that Lady Olivia Sparrow wishes to have engraved her miniature
portrait painted by him, and asks him to help choosing the most appropriate engraver,
who should inform Lady Olivia about his price (1851 Dec. 22). 3 p.
Answers an unidentified artist that the price asked for engraving the portrait of Lady
Olivia Sparrow "is a far larger expense than she would be willing to incur" (Jan. 1862).
1 p.
Thanks Mr. and Mrs. Blackmore for their invitation, so important for the "progress of
the archaeological investigation in this country." He regretfully could not accept it
because he was at that time in Zurich with his friend Dr. Keller (1867 Sep. 14). 2
p.
Writes W. Cunnington that he has read in the
Times his statement of a
recent exploration at Silbury. He would like it to be presented by Mr. Scarth at their
next meeting on Dec. 7, without interfering with what he may "propose to do in the
Wiltshire magazine." The subject should invite attention to an "object
that our Society formerly did their best endeavor to investigate" (1867 Nov. 8). On
letterhead of Archaeological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland. 3 p.
Writes to an unidentified person about some illustrations which, for 1250 impressions,
would require a lot of money (undated). On letterhead of Archaeological Institute of
Great Britain and Ireland. 1 p.
box 1, folder 69
Weatherly, Frederick Edward (b.1848, poet),
1904
Scope and Content Note
2 items
Sends to Francis R. Shon? a short letter with some "words which may be familiar to
you." On a separate letterhead page with an Oxford address is pasted a small ink drawing
by J. Pettie, R.A. Inscription above: "Hunted down, by F.E. Weatherby after the picture
by J. Pettie," and below:"Royal Academy 77." On verso a 33-line poem, "Hunted down,"
signed Frederick E. Weatherby (1904 Nov. 17). 4p.
box 1, folder 70
Wedmore, Frederick, Sir (1844-1921, art critic and writer),
1893-1894, 1915
Scope and Content Note
7 items
Accepts John Lane's conditions for the publication of his
Pastorals of France, and Renunciations (1893 Mar. 24). 1 p.
Thanks J. Lane for his help in "every particular," even if Watson can "actually appear
as the driver" (ca. 1893). 2 p.
Invites Mr. Lane to dinner at his place (ca. 1893). 1 p.
More thanks to Lane for the results: "the book is creditable to every one concerned in
it. Admirable!" (1894 Oct. 11). Postcard.
Hopes that Lane will forward to William Watson a copy of his book. He himself has
bought and read Watson's
Odes with "great satisfaction." Congratulates
Lane for the good taste of every detail (1894 Dec. 7). 1 p.
Reminds Lane about their talk at Brighton, and adds that the author of the five pieces
he asked about was not Harding, but a good French lithographer (1915 Mar. 14). 1 p.
On a small envelope there are a few layout notes in Wedmore's hand.
box 1, folder 71
Westmacott, Charles Molloy (1787/88-1868, author),
undated
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Answers the letter of an unidentified person, clarifying a misunderstanding generated
by Mr. Vance, and which will be "easily arranged" by his solicitors "to the satisfaction
of all parties" (undated). 2 p.
box 1, folder 72
Wheatley, W. (archaeologist),
1828
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Reverend Arnold Latcham that comparing W. Hawkings' sketch of Amphipolis with
his own, he found nothing to add to it. He has been lately engaged with the geography of
the Peloponnesus peninsula, "with a view to the narrative of Thucydides as well as the
description of Pausanias" (1828 Feb. 20). 4 p.
box 1, folder 73
Willis, Robert (1800-1875, author, inventor, etc.),
1845
Scope and Content Note
1 letter
Writes to Cocherell about the "most admirable subject" he has chosen for his paper, and
advises him that "the brut materials would be found in the buildings themselves." Willis
hopes that he has received the copy of his
Architectural history of Canterbury
cathedral
. (Cambridge, 1845 Aug. 23). 4 p.
