FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE DELIGHTS IN THE ARRIVAL OF HER NEW PUPPY “MR. DARKIE”

NIGHTINGALE, FLORENCE. (1820-1910). British nurse, hospital reformer and humanitarian. Autograph Letter Signed, “Florence Nightingale,” on her imprinted 10, South Street, Park Lane, W. stationery. Two pages, octavo. “Lea Hurst, Cromford, Derby,” October 10, 1879.   Extremely-fine condition.   To Mrs. Cropley.   Nightingale writes:

“Dear Madame, The young ‘Mr. Darkie’ was met by his carriage yesterday at Whatstandwell Station and arrived in his tidy and convenient hamper in perfectly good care. When the hamper was opened, he descended with all the dignity of an infant Rajah among an admiring company. For he is indeed beautiful. He is noble and independent and appears satisfied with the attention shown him. Thank you very much indeed for your kindness in lending me such a pet. He is worthy of both his parents. I pray believe me in haste dear Madame, most faithfully yours, Florence Nightingale.”

$2650.00