BALFOUR ARTHUR JAMES: (1848-1930) British Prime Minister 1902-05. A lengthy A.L.S., Arthur ...

BALFOUR ARTHUR JAMES: (1848-1930) British Prime Minister 1902-05. A lengthy A.L.S., Arthur James Balfour, seven pages, 8vo, Whittinghame, Preston Kirk, 11th June n.y. (1871?), to William Austen-Leigh ('My dear Leigh'). Balfour writes a friendly, social letter, commencing by discussing a misdirected concert ticket, 'I grieve to hear of your not having received the Philharmonic ticket: though I admire the prescence of mind with which you repaired the accident. I remember writing you a letter and enclosing in it the ticket before I left London: I confess that I have no distinct recollection of leaving it at the club afterwards, but I always supposed I had done so', continuing to ask if Hubert Parry is married yet, 'If not I think I must give him a present: I wish, if you have time, you could get something, or make somebody else get something. I don't care what it is, books perhaps or music. I suppose between £10 & £20, though I never know'. Balfour further writes with news of his brothers, 'Frank and Gerald have both returned home: and display an ardour for self-improvement which is quite touching. Unfortunately it takes the form of getting up at six and breakfasting at eight, which in my opinion is more conducive to study than to comfort....It gives one a high idea of the rising generation. For my part I follow their virtues at a respectful distance and by going to bed at 10.30 (when it is light enough to read)' and also informs Austen-Leigh of his upcoming travel plans, 'I think I shall probably be obliged to return to town for about a fortnight soon, apart from that I shall be here till the end of July and then in the Highlands', before concluding 'I am sorry you are not going to Hatfield for the Church opening; there will be good preaching.....' VG

William Austen-Leigh (1843-1921) English author, a great nephew of Jane Austen.

C. Hubert Parry (1848-1918) English composer, teacher and historian of music. Parry married Elizabeth Maude Herbert (1851-1933) in 1872.

Francis Maitland Balfour (1851-1882) British biologist, younger brother of Arthur James Balfour. Francis lost his life while attempting an ascent of Mont Blanc.

Gerald William Balfour (1853-1945) British politician, younger brother of Arthur James Balfour. Gerald inherited his brother's title and became 2nd Earl Balfour in 1930.