The following 4 lots come by descent from Mr. and Mrs. Thomson Hankey. Hankey (1805-93) was a...

The following 4 lots come by descent from Mr. and Mrs. Thomson Hankey. Hankey (1805-93) was a politician, political economist, and Whig MP between 1859 and 1878. Edward Lear made many acquaintances during his life as an itinerant and often, financially needy, artist. He seems to have built up a close friendship, however, with Mrs. Hankey. Gladstone (William). Autograph letter, signed, from 11 Downing Street, Jan. 18(?), 1864, 4 pp., 8vo, discussing economic policy: "I am afraid the broad assertion of our tendency to underpay much outweighs in practical affect the declaration in general terms that expenditure might be reduced " [Together with]: Another similar autograph letter, signed, place illegible, Oct. 1, 1867, 4pp. 8vo, concerning the reduction of debt. (2)