C.1830 Personal Letter and Portrait from “The Genialist Radical” Politician and Writer Chas Buller to French Musician Auguste Morel

On offer is an undated handwritten letter and portrait of Charles (Chas) Buller. Estimated to be written between 1830 & 1837 in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France. Written to “Morel” (almost certainly the French musician, Auguste Morel) to inform him of the cancellation of a visit, it reads:

Boulogne, Sunday
My dear Morel, I am very sorry that being recalled to my official duties somewhat suddenly I have no time to call on you today. I greatly regret this; but I think it very possible that I may visit Paris before very long, when I will certainly go to see you. The Miss Cardogan gave me the enclosed for you.
Yours truly,
Chas Buller

The “enclosed” is a portrait engraving of Charles.

Charles Buller Jr. (1806-1848) was a British liberal politician and was described by Thomas Carlyle as "the genialest radical I have ever met". He was the Chief secretary to Lord Durham, Governor General of Canada from 1838 to 1841 who travelled to Canada and is considered the primary writer of Lord Durham's Report published in 1839.

Auguste Morel was a musician, composer and writer, and a life-long friend of Berlioz. Writer of songs; best known for his chamber-music. In recognition of his talents he was made Chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 1860 He was director of the Conservatoire of Marseille from 1852 to 1873.

This two page signed letter measures 4-¼ x 6-⅞ inches. There are creases from original folds and a small smear of red wax in the centre. In excellent condition. Included is a monochromatic portrait engraving of Buller mounted on card 5-¼ x 6-½ inches. The picture is annotated in a different hand and is in Excellent condition.