Add MS 76671-76680

Althorp Papers. Vols. mccclxxi-mcclxxx. Correspondence and papers of Frederick, 5th Earl Spencer as Lord Chamberlain; 1846-1848, n.d. Partly French. Spencer served as Lord Chamberlain from 1846-1848. The Lord Chamberlain's department was responsible for the royal household `above stairs': the Chambers, Wardrobes, Office of Robes, Ceremonies, Revels, Musicians, Chapels, Housekeepers, Messengers, Yeoman of the guard, Waterman, Physicians, Artists, Craftsmen, Librarian, Latin Secretary, Poet Laureate, Examiner of Plays and Keeper of Lions at the Tower. The content of Spencer's papers includes letters requesting tickets to attend levees and visit the State apartments, advice on matters of etiquette such as forms of address, official communications containing instructions, petitions, details of banquets such as invitation lists and table placings in respect of the christenings of Princess Helena (1846) and Princess Louise (1848), the issue of Royal Warrants and registration of theatre status. Key correspondents include H.R.H Queen Victoria, H.R.H Prince Albert, George E. Anson (Keeper of H.M Privy purse), Sir William Martins (Comptroller of Accompts, Superintendent of duties and Gentleman Usher) and Lt.-Col. Charles B. Phipps (Private Secretary to Prince Albert). Other correspondents include Lord Palmerston, Secretary of State for the Foreign Office, Lord John Russell, First Lord of the Treasury and Arthur Perceval, Chaplain in Ordinary at St James’ Chapel.

Ten volumes.