Further on Charlotte's newly found letter

Toovey's, the auctioneers in possession of Charlotte Brontë's recently discovered letter have kindly provided us with further details on this extraordinary find. This is how they describe it:

BRONTË, Charlotte (1816-1855). – A 4pp. letter to William Smith Williams, dated ‘August, 27th 1850’. 8vo (187 x 117mm.) Replying to Williams’ request for advice ‘on the subject of one of [his] daughters going to Italy…, So much, in such a matter, depends on the character of her who is principally concerned that, I think, her self alone and those whom she is intimately known can judge of the eligibility or ineligibility of the plan. To all English girls a residence as governess in a foreign family and land must be a trial… You and Mrs Williams can best judge how such an ordeal would affect your own dear daughters’. Charlotte Brontë goes on to mention various mutual acquaintances, including a number of literary characters, Mrs Kavanagh, Sir J.K. Shuttleworth, Miss Martineau, Mrs Gaskell, Mr Lewes, Lord John Manners, Mr Smythe (who had ‘called at Haworth Parsonage lately. Lord John is a tall, dark-haired man of very gentlemanly bearing. Mr Smythe contrasts rather disadvantageously with him as far as extremities go.’) Mrs Gore and finally Mr Smith. (Folded twice, the final page lightly soiled.)
Pre-sale estimate £10,000-15,000
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Of course it is quite likely it will fetch more than that. But we will see what happens on July 18. Have you broken your savings bank yet? In case you want to see the real thing before you start counting your pennies, here are further details on where and when to go:

Viewing for this sale will take place at our auction rooms at Spring Gardens, Washington, West Sussex RH20 3BS on Saturday 15th July between 9am and 12noon, Monday 17th July between 10am and 7pm, and on the day of the sale between 10am and 1pm. It will be offered in our sale of Antiquarian and Collectors' Books and Printed and Manuscript Ephemera on Tuesday 18th July, commencing at 1.30pm.

As you can see they have also generously provided us with a picture of the letter. Click on it to see a larger version.

See, the attic search is turning out quite fine. So keep on looking: attics, cellars, anything! :)

Categories: Charlotte_Brontë, Brontëana