Italian-born British nurse (1820–1910), popularly known as the “Lady with a Lamp,” who first came to prominence for her care of troops during the Crimean War. She pioneered modern nursing and hospital practice, and her prowess as a mathematician led her to develop a number of important innovations in the field of statistics. ALS signed “F. Nightingale,” one page, 4.75 x 8, personal letterhead, August 7, 1879. Nightingale writes to Miss Rye, evidently a colleague involved in Nightingale’s training program for nurses. In full: “You & your work are ever before me, thou’ I have no time to write. God bless you & it. Do not wear yourself too much with this blessed work. I look forward to your holiday. Do you sometimes read an entertaining book? God speed you & your poor girls. And He Will—is the unceasing prayer of yours ever….” Accompanied by an unsigned period portrait engraving and three 19th-century facsimile ALS of Nightingale. Mild soiling and handling wear, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
