[Edward Ellice of Invergarry, Liberal politician and Scottish highland landowner; Delane] Autograph Letter Signed to J. T. Delane, editor of The Times, discussing his position on the Scotch Education Bill, and providing parliamentary gossip about it.

The two men’s entries in the Oxford DNB show that they were well matched: Ellice was known for his ‘extravagant lifestyle’, building at Invergarry ‘a house which was renowned for its comfort’; and Delane ‘was welcomed as a delightful companion.' 6pp, 12mo. Headed ‘Private’, addressed to ‘My dear Delane’, and signed ‘E. Ellice’. On bifolium and single leaf, both with mourning border. In good condition, lightly aged, with negligible remnants of windowpane mount adhering at edges of blank reverse. Folded for postage. He was ‘delighted’ to see Delane’s ‘onslaught on the Scotch Education Bill. Having fired a shot at it without support I came away to avoid being involved in a Tory opposition. Why the Tories oppose I can’t understand. / Certainly the measure itself avoids interference with the old state of things to a degree that in my eyes depraves its value. It will be quite unpopular in Scotland’. He continues to discuss the Bill over the next two pages, including the following: ‘You know I suppose that non conformist opposition was bought off by the promise to make Dr. Taylor the wellknown United Presbyterian minister in Glasgow - Secretary to the New Board!’ He ends by inviting Delane to Invergarry: ‘The new Chateau is warm - has good beds - and not a bad kitchen & cellar. But the sooner you come the better. I should like you to see the place in its summer garb.’