Earl Amherst of Arracan letters to Sarah, Countess of Arracan, 1806-1822.

The collection consists of approximately 80 letters from Earl Amherst of Arracan to his first wife, Sarah, most dating from 1819 and 1820. Subjects include news of family and friends; estate management; and social and political events, including the death of George III. Amherst frequently details debates in the House of Lords and discussions with government officials. A series of 6 letters from November 1819 discusses Amherst's support of the Six Acts in the wake of the Peterloo Massacre and his fear that "the conduct of the Whigs offered the greatest encouragement to the Radicals."

The largest group of letters dates from 1820 and documents Amherst's participation in the trial of Queen Caroline and the debates in the House of Lords concerning the Bill of Pains and Penalties. While Amherst expressed repeated disgust at Caroline's conduct, the letters also document his growing concern at the possible harmful effects of the Bill and his eventual agreement that it be dropped by the House of Lords.