William Gladstone ALS as MP, Concerning Raising Clay

4pp of a bifolium, measuring 4.25" x 7", London, dated July 28, 1848. A letter written from 6 Carlton Gardens, signed "WE Gladstone" and addressed to J. Griffiths Esq. Gladstone instructs Griffiths to get the clay house running to raise clay for a Mr. Chance to collect. With flattened mail folds, light toning and soiling. Boldly signed. From a recently discovered collection that has not seen the light of day for over 70 years!

In part:

"I am desirous that the clay [illegible] should be put into a state for working as soon as possible: and Mr. Chance whom I have seen will resume operations there provisionally when this is done, raising clay for the consumption of his works. Of course it should be done at as small an outlay at possible: and if the charge is likely to go beyond a small sum, have the goodness to acquaint me forthwith. Am I right in supposing that the Enquire which works the clay has been in operation to help that & other pits clear of water? If so, can it raise the clay without any additional expense?..."

William Ewart Gladstone (1809-1898) was a British statesman and Liberal politician, known affectionately by his supporters as "The People's William" or the "G.O.M." ("Grand Old Man"). In a career lasting over 60 years, he served for 12 years as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, spread over four terms beginning in 1868 and ending in 1894. He also served over 12 years as Chancellor of the Exchequer.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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