An attractive ALS (Autograph Letter Signed) by Princess Helena (1846–1923), daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, written from Schomberg House, Pall Mall, London, on 14 July 1902. Written in English on royal stationery headed with a crown and: “SCHOMBERG HOUSE, PALL MALL. S.W.” the letter is written on a folded double sheet, with the text extending over three pages in the Princess's hand. Helena addresses the recipient affectionately: “My dear Minnie” The full identity of “Minnie” has not presently been established. The familiar salutation and particularly affectionate closing indicate that the recipient was personally close to the Princess. Helena thanks her correspondent for something sent to her and comments appreciatively upon the items received. She also refers to “two delightful bags” and expresses her pleasure with them. Towards the conclusion Helena comments upon her surroundings and the weather: “It is beautiful here – but the heat is tremendous.” She closes warmly: “With much love Ever affectionately yrs Helena” followed by her clear autograph signature “Helena.” Princess Helena was a daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. She married Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein in 1866 and remained extensively involved in British public and charitable life, particularly nursing, healthcare and women's organisations. An appealing personal royal manuscript combining three autograph pages by Queen Victoria's daughter, her original signature, crowned Schomberg House stationery and warm personal correspondence addressed to a woman evidently close to the Princess.
Auction 01: Auction 01 – Historical Letters, Documents & Autographs — Melis Antiques & Art