A private cover dating probably from the 1860s, written by Thomas Erskine May (1815–1886), one of the most important authorities in the history of British constitutional and parliamentary practice, to Benjamin Disraeli (1804–1881). The front is manuscript-addressed: “The Right Hon. B. Disraeli M.P.” and prominently marked “Private.” At the lower left appears the full autograph signature of Thomas Erskine May. May was an enormously influential British parliamentary official, scholar and constitutional theorist. He entered the service of the House of Commons at an early age, rose through its parliamentary administration and ultimately became Clerk of the House of Commons. His enduring reputation rests particularly upon his monumental “A Treatise upon the Law, Privileges, Proceedings and Usage of Parliament, ” first published in 1844. Universally known as “Erskine May, ” the work became the authoritative reference on British parliamentary procedure and practice and exercised a lasting influence upon parliamentary systems far beyond Britain. The reverse retains part of an official House of Commons seal or embossed device, incorporating a heraldic emblem. The impression was partially damaged when the envelope was opened, leaving part of the inscription and device incomplete, although its parliamentary association remains evident. The earlier documentation accompanying the item dates the cover, in all likelihood, to the 1860s. This was a particularly significant period in both Disraeli's political career and British constitutional development, including the passage of the Reform Act of 1867 while Disraeli was Leader of the House of Commons. As the original contents are no longer present, no direct connection between this particular correspondence and a specific parliamentary event can be established. An interesting Victorian autograph and political-history item documenting private correspondence from Thomas Erskine May to Benjamin Disraeli, bringing together two highly significant figures in 19th-century British parliamentary history.
Auction 01: Auction 01 – Historical Letters, Documents & Autographs — Melis Antiques & Art