Letters between B. Strutt and J. Pattison, 1778-1782.

Album containing the correspondence of Benjamin Strutt of Colchester and John Pattison Jr. of Witham. The letters are highly literary in nature, and contain many references to, playful imitations of, and comments on MacPherson's Ossian, Walpole's The Castle of Otranto, the works of Laurence Sterne "and other obscene sentimental writers." They also document the men's classical studies, including quotations and translations from both Greek and Latin authors, as well as their interest in the moral philosophy of Shaftesbury and Lord Kames.

In addition, Pattison and Strutt exchange personal and family news, share scholarly and professional goals, chart their "inclinations" and "fancies", write elaborate set pieces called "Visions", and comment on their own friendship. A letter from Pattison attempts to console Strutt for the death of his son in 1781, noting that "the Cause of Death must be Accidental, and not Natural," and reminding him of their philosophical speculations.