NIGHTINGALE, Florence (1820-1910). Reformer of nursing.
Autograph Letter Signed [to Elizabeth Herbert (widow of Sidney Herbert)] ('Dearest'), 3 pages 8vo, 35 South Street, Park Lane, 5 September 1867. An affectionate letter celebrating the establishment of the 'Herbert Home', inquiring after her children and, in a postscript, lamenting the death of Mr Chermside.

'... It is so much to have one thing really done. [I scarcely ever waste a thought upon my imprisonment, thanks to God. But I should have liked to have been able to see that one thing before I die.] ...
 '... I always long to hear of your children his children, especially of his "Molly". ...'

The bond between Florence Nightingale and Elizabeth (Lizzie) Herbert was strong from their first meeting in Rome in 1847, further strengthened by working together on committees and by consoling one another after Herbert's death. Miss Nightingale assisted at the birth of one of the Herbert children and maintained an interest in their welfare. It was Sidney Herbert who had persuaded Florence to take a party of female nurses to Scutari in 1854, and she deeply respected and revered him, keeping his death date (2 August) annually throughout the rest of her own life.
A note on the back of the letter states that it concerns the opening of 'the Herbert Home at Bournemouth'.
[No: 25172]