An interesting mid-Victorian autograph-related correspondence dated 2 February 1855, written from Lincoln and signed "M. Monson", addressed to Miss Cotesworth.

The brief note reads:

"M. Monson presents his complts. to Miss Cotesworth and has the pleasure of enclosing the autograph of the late Prime Minister from Lord Monson."

The letter was clearly intended as a covering note accompanying a separate autograph which is no longer present. As such, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the fashionable mid-19th century practice of autograph collecting among the British upper and professional classes.

The Monson family were among the principal landed families of Lincolnshire, seated at Burton Hall near Lincoln. The reference to "Lord Monson" almost certainly relates to William John Monson, 6th Baron Monson (1796-1862), whose family maintained strong connections with the county throughout the period.

Particularly intriguing is the reference to:

"the autograph of the late Prime Minister"

As the note was written only days after the resignation of the Earl of Aberdeen's government in January 1855, the phrase could theoretically refer to the recently retired Prime Minister. However, in the context of autograph collecting, it seems more likely that "late" is being used in its Victorian sense of "deceased", making Sir Robert Peel (1788-1850) a plausible candidate for the missing autograph. Without the original enclosure this cannot be proven, but it adds considerable historical interest.

The recipient, Miss Cotesworth, remains an interesting avenue for further research. The uncommon surname and the nature of the exchange suggest an individual involved in collecting autographs or maintaining an autograph album.

A scarce and attractive piece connected with Victorian collecting culture, the Monson family, and the exchange of political autographs during the mid-19th century.

Condition as photos. Guaranteed Original. All items can be returned for a full refund if found to be not as described. 

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