[John French, 1st Earl of Ypres, as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.] Autograph Letter Signed ('French') to 'Sir Edward' [Sir Edward Guy Dawber]

3pp., 4to. On bifolium. In fair condition, on lightly-aged paper, with closed tears along fold lines. He begins: 'Dear Sir Edward | I owe you & the Council of the "Artists General Benenvolent Institution" a most humble &

apology! [...] To my horror I have found the enclosed card amongst my papers. My only excuse is in pleading my anxious state of mind just at the time. The position of Ireland was filling all my thoughts.' He asks for forgiveness, as 'You and your colleagues of the Royal Academy have shown me much great kindness for years past that I regret to think I have made such a mistake'.