Supporting Documents

SD1336.  Robert Browning, Sr. to Henry Ellis

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 14, 373 (in part).

Hatcham New Cross

5th Novr 1847

Sir,

Being desirous of possessing the privilege of Reading in the British Museum Library, I beg the favor of a ticket of admission, which if you are so good as to send me, you may be assured I will not misuse.– I have been for many years a resident at Hatcham, and am well known to many respectable inhabitants in the place but it may perhaps be more satisfactory to you if I name William Smee Esqr chief accountant Bank of England & John Knight Esqr Secretary, as friends of mine, either or both of whom will if you think proper to apply to them readily vouch for my character and position in society– I name these Gentlemen because I am told that the testimonials of two householders of respectability are required by you previous to issuing a Ticket of Admission to the British Museum Library[.]

I have the honor to be

Sir

Your most obedt Servant

Robt Browning

To Sir Henry Ellis

Principal Librarian

British Museum

Docket: Mr Smee’s written recomend will be suffict HE.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: British Library.

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