Thomas Steavens (c.1718–1759). Grand Tour Letters Five manus...

Thomas Steavens (c.1718–1759). Grand Tour Letters Five manuscript letters concerning Steavens's European travels, theatrical life and Continental society, 1749–1751. In Italian, French and Spanish, brown ink on laid paper, comprising six bifolia, nineteen pages written, several with integral address panels and contemporary dockets; original folds, occasional light staining, spotting, ink smudging and minor marginal wear; generally vg Marchetti to Thomas Steavens, Trieste, 8 October 1749; autograph letter signed, in Italian, three pages on a bifolium, with integral address panel to Steavens in Venice and contemporary docket. Discussing complaints brought by several Venetian gentlemen before the English court, his hopes of obtaining employment and travelling to England, and an acquaintance's refusal to repay twenty sequins owed for repairs. José Joaquín Guzmán de Montealegre y Andrade, Duke of Salas (1692–1771), to Thomas Steavens, Venice, 20 February 1751; autograph letter signed "El Duque de Montealegre", in Spanish, three pages on a bifolium, docketed 10 March 1751. Warmly welcoming news of Steavens's safe arrival and improving health, praising his "singular merits" and assuring him of assistance from the Duke's friends. Montealegre had formerly served as chief minister to Charles VII of Naples and, from 1749, as ambassador of Spain and Naples at Venice. Carlo Marchetti to Thomas Steavens, Prague, 12 November 1749; autograph letter signed, in Italian, four pages on a bifolium, docketed 22 November. Describing his journey from Trieste with little money, his fortunate meeting with Mr Freeman and a performance of Metastasio's Demofoonte at Prague; naming the principal singers, assessing the theatre and scenery and doubting whether its audiences would cover impresario Locatelli's considerable expenses. He also announces his intention of travelling to England within six weeks. Unidentified correspondent to Thomas Steavens, 18 September 1751; unsigned autograph letter, in French, eight closely written pages on two bifolia. A lengthy and affectionate letter discussing Steavens's travels and intended departure, mutual acquaintances, the Turin ambassador, family and household affairs, and the writer's prolonged illness during four months of excessive heat. The correspondent repeatedly urges Steavens to write and concludes by asking pardon for the hurried "griffonnage". Anne de Firmian, Countess, to Thomas Steavens, [Sadowitz?], 12 July 1749; autograph letter signed, in French, one page on a bifolium, with contemporary docket. Thanking Steavens for his courtesy during his brief visit, conveying a lady's compliments and gratitude, and acknowledging the recommendation made on his behalf. A varied group illuminating Steavens's Continental connections and experiences during his Grand Tour, including Montealegre's warm endorsement and Marchetti's detailed account of the operatic stage at Prague. (5)

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