OGILVY

Charles Harry Lawrence (hereafter CHL) was perhaps the finest gunmaker of the twentieth century. At the age of 14 he joined James Purdey & Sons as an actioner's apprentice, and he remained with the firm for the rest of his life. For fifteen years, ending in 1970, he was the firm's managing director. He was twice (1954 and 1962) Master of the Worshipful Company of Gunmakers, and was Chairman of the Proof House Committee for 27 years from 1954. Having previously received an MBE for his war work, he was awarded an OBE in 1978.

3pp., 12mo. Bifolium. In good condition, on aged paper, with original worn and torn envelope, with stamp and postmarks, addressed by Lucas to 'H. W. Stuart Esq. | Mulgrave House | Rectory Place | Woolwich'. Stuart's son has 'shown himself so good a worker' at Guy's that Lucas is 'anxious that he should have an opportunity of taking a good position in the profession'. Lucas has 'persuaded him to try for the fellowship & if possible, to pass the preliminary next September'. Lucas hopes Stuart will encourage his son, as he is 'convinced that he has the power, if you give him the opportunity'.

1p., 4to. Bifolium. Good, on aged paper. Addressed on reverse of second leaf 'To | Mr. Strahan | His Majestys Printer. | New Street Shoe lane | Fetter lane'. The Earl writes that the letter will be delivered to Strahan by 'the young Farmer whom I mentioned to you'. He wishes 'that he may put his hand to work, and at the same time see things in the Stile of a man, who may have afterwards an Extensive Farm under his Direction'. He would like him to be 'recommended to Mr. Young, who will direct him what is proper to be done in Hertfordshire'. He asks Strahan to 'procure from Mr.