[The Cambridge Apostles, 1871.] Autograph Letter Signed from Frederic Ferrar, proprietor of the Star and Garter, Richmond, to Tom Taylor regarding arrangements for a dinner of the ‘Cambridge Conversazione Soc[iet]y’ [Apostles].

A nice item relating to a famously secretive and influential society. See Taylor’s entry in the Oxford DNB (Ferrar is not to be confused with the Dean of Canterbury Frederic Farrar, who was an Apostle). 2pp, 12mo. On bifolium. Sixteen lines, very neatly written. On aged and creased paper, with part of the leaf torn away at top left (not affecting text). Folded for postage. Addressed to ‘Tom Taylor Esqre. / 8 Richmond Terrace / Whitehall / S.W.’ and signed ‘Fredc: Ferrar. / Genl. Manager.’ Headed ‘Cambridge Conversazione Socy.’ Begins: ‘Dear Sir, / Your order to hand this day for above Dinner for Wednesday next June 14th. will have my best attention. Covers will be laid for 24 persons, and although the late inclement weather has seriously affected the prices of Dessert articles, I will endeavour to keep the price to 16s/. per head; but I may have to make it 17s/6d. - The Wines &c. will be charged as last year, - the a/c sent for my guidance must be that of a previous dinner, as there appears to be some discrepancy in figures. I will also arrange for the hire of an Omnibus.’ Postscript: ‘Dinner 1/2 past 6 for 7 o’clock.’