After a stint as the Prince of Wales’s mistress, Maria Fitzherbert (1756–1837) married the future George IV in 1785. Though the marriage was deemed invalid under British law—George III had not given his consent—Fitzherbert and George IV carried on a relationship well after the prince’s marriage to Caroline of Brunswick in 1795. ALS signed “M. Fitzherbert,” one page, 4.5 x 7.25, May 26, 1811 [dated and addressed on a restored partial integral leaf]. Fitzherbert writes to Charles Bicknell. In part: “Sr. Edward & Lady Smythe dine wth. me on Thursday next & I shall be very happy if you will come & meet them. I beg to recommend my housekeeper Mrs. Sheet to your protection. Pray do not let her be depriv’d of the annuity she has for some years receiv’d as a clergyman’s widow. She is very deserving & the small annual sum of ten pounds is of great use & comfort to her….” In very good condition, with intersecting folds (vertical fold just touching first letter of signature), a few creases and small tears, and light wrinkling and soiling. R&R COA.
