ALS New Year's Eve from writer and noted Victorian, Elizabeth Herbert (Baroness Herbert of Lea, nee Ashe à Court-Repington), wife of Sidney Herbert, 1st Baron Herbert of Lea, to Ben Austin Esq., Dec 31, 1890

London, 1890. Letter. Very good. On Herbert House, Belgrave Square Stationery with embossed crown monogram, 'Sir, I enclose a note from my husbands Father [George Herbert, 11th Earl of Pembroke] according to your wish. Yours faithfully, M. E. Herbert.' 18 x 11 cm, bordered in black. Traces of paper from removal from album. Herbert (b. 1822-d.1911) was an English Roman Catholic writer, translator, philanthropist, and influential social figure. Friends of many noted Victorians, including Benjamin Disraeli and Florence Nightingale. She became a Roman Catholic convert in 1866, following the death of her husband. Following her reception into the Catholic Church, as part of a determined effort to ensure the Protestant succession of the Herberts, she was forbidden by Parliament to bring her children to Mass, and her children were taken as wards in Chancery and brought up in the Church of England. Only her eldest daughter, Mary, followed her into the Catholic faith. Spent her life in faithful charity and service.  (Inventory #: 1938)