Autograph Letter Signed ("Henry E Card Manning") to "Lord Knutsford",

2 pages 8vo, Archbishop's House, Westminster, 23 July

Letter regarding Knutsford's interview with Rev. Dr. Howley (1843 -1914) of Newfoundland that had just taken place: "... I need hardly say that I had no knowledge of his acts & words. But perhaps his interview with you is the best correction he could receive. I took him to be a man of prudence & peace. When I see him again I will do my best with him."

The subject of Howley's meeting with Knutsford concerned the fishing rights of the waters around Newfoundland. Howley was very involved in what was perceived to be a great injustice to the Newfoundlanders: the favourable rights the French had over their waters since the Treaty of Utrecht (1713), a matter which rose to a level of serious political importance in 1890-91 following the signing of an Anglo-French modus vivendi. As Lord Knutsford was Colonial Secretary at this time, he would have been responsible for this matter. Given its importance to the people of Newfoundland, it's perhaps unsurprising that Howley was otherwise than "a man of prudence & peace" during his meeting with Lord Knutsford. Howley put pressure on officials throughout Europe regarding this matter, even petitioning Pope Leo XIII to intervene and his actions may well have contributed to the eventual resolution of the issue.

Stock Code: 227129