Sold For $2,805
*Includes Buyers Premium
Scottish missionary and explorer (1813–1873) who 'disappeared' on an expedition to find the source of the Nile only to be famously rediscovered by Henry M. Stanley several years later. ALS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, May 18, 1865. Handwritten letter to "Mr. Mills," in part: "I fear I shall not have the pleasure of breakfasting with you as I am so busily engaged—preparation for departure some time next month…I am much obliged by your care about the committee. I did not get your note till within half an hour of the time appointed and was rather flurried in the giving of evidence but I daresay I was understood as not at all anxious to endorse Burton's opinions. I did not read them for I have no time to look into the newspapers but I think the measures used by our Govt's & missionaries reflect honour on both." In fine condition.
While Livingstone approached Africa primarily as a missionary and humanitarian, Richard F. Burton was a linguist and ethnographer with a more skeptical view of missionary work. Livingstone reportedly detested Burton, viewing him as a 'moral idiot,' and their relationship was characterized by mutual dislike and professional rivalry.
From the personal collection of a lifelong collector, teacher, and traveler with a passion for world history. His collecting years ranged from the 1970s to the present day, meaning that several of the premier pieces have not been on the market in decades.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$150.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
