Letters to William Burrell Massingberd, 1738-1766

Collection of 66 personal letters, in a single hand, from Spence to Massingberd. In his letters, Spence primarily shares and inquires about news of mutual acquaintances and family, especially to their friend Captain Edward Rolle, Massingberd's brother Francis, and Massingberd's wife and children; and writes numerous expressions of friendship. He recommends things to see and do in France during Massingberd's sojourn there; asks for Massingberd's help in selling a friend's Italian chaise; describes his extensive gardening activities as well as his reading and scholarly research; and discusses politics and current events. In 1747 he reports on the trial for treason of Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, discussing the merits of various prints of him, including one by Hogarth, and giving an extensive account of the trial and his execution. In 1750 he expresses his sorrow for the death of Charles Lennox, Duke of Richmond and his shock at the abcess found in the dead duke's hip, "full of fetid matter; & there were several black spots about the sides of the Hollow, with something like Teats by each of them."