A nice 4pp. autograph letter on a single folded leaf, dated "Stellenbosch, 23 Aug. 1901", from John X. Merriman to a Mr. Marais, thanking him for the honour of requesting that their new daughter be named after the Merrimans "The name if you do not object might be 'Agnes Merriman'. Perhaps when she is old that will be the only remembrance of me in Wodehouse. For I have tried to do much and done nothing. You poor people are never out of my thoughts. Psalm 137 Verses 6 and 7 come to one at such times. ...........". A typically modest and self effacing letter.
John Xavier Merriman (15 March 1841 – 1 August 1926) was the last prime minister of the Cape Colony before the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910. It is of interest, as this letter is addressed from Stellenbosch, that in 1892 he purchased a farm there which later became Rustenberg Wines. The company has honoured him by naming their flagship red bordeaux blend after him.
In very good condition.
- Overall Condition: Very Good
- Size: 8vo.
- Sold By: Ronald Levine - Modern First Editions
- Contact Person: Ronald Levine
- Country: South Africa
- Email: [email protected]
- Telephone: 011643 8437
- Preferred Payment Methods: EFT for South African customers and International Bank Tranfer for customers abroad. I am unable to accept payment by credit card.
- Trade Associations: SABDA
