| Administrative History | Elizabeth Montagu [1720-1800] She met Dr Gregory in 1766, and he introduced her to Beattie's Poems on Several Subjects, which she admired. Beattie met her in 1771, during his visit to London, and they remained close friends until her death. She was an active promoter of Beattie's advancement and she became his principal adviser on literary matters. His final collection of poems was dedicated to her in 1784 |
| Description | Letter, dated Wednesday 23, from Elizabeth Montagu, to James Beattie, expressing sadness for not seeing Beattie in London; asking for the Beatties' company at Sandleford; talking about the Beatties staying at Sandleford and mentioning the visit of the Primate of Ireland and Sir William Robinson. Letter explains that there will probably be no room for the Beatties once the Primate of Ireland [?William Robinson (bap. 1727, d. 1803), friend of Thomas Gray] and Sir William Robinson arrive at Sandleford. Montagu mentions the visit from Mr & Mrs ?Smelt [?Leonard Smelt (bap. 1725, d. 1800), military engineer and courtier].
Annotated on reverse: 'Dr Beattie at Mr ?Napurs' ?Music shop Lancaster Court in the ?St. 27 Suffolk Street. London'. |