by Millais, John Everett
Two pages, declining an invitation he had already accepted to dinner... in a most official manner. On Millais' '2, Palace Gate, Kensington' stationary. "8 May, 91. Dear Lady Huntersmith, I am on the Council of the Royal Academy, and since your invitation which I accepted, I have received a notice from the President to attend a meeting the night of your dinner, and I am very sorry to say I must forgo the pleasure of accompanying my Lady that evening- The members are expected to give up all Engagements for the business of the Institution and the meeting I have to attend is an important one. Sincerely, J. E. Millais." One can only wonder if this was a pressing meeting after all, or a savvy way to decline on second thoughts.
(Inventory #: 3020)