Autograph Note Signed, " Jan. 5 1815/ This is to certify that I am this day alive / Althorp / Witness Elizabeth Acklom"

Pen and ink on paper. 1 vols. 8vo. Addressed to one of the executors of the estate of a Mr E. Burke, Spencer confirms that he is alive. This was likely required by Burke's estate to fulfill a bequest. John Charles Spencer (1782-1845), Viscount (later third Earl) Althorp, had his portrait painted (age four) by Sir Joshua Reynolds, was chancellor of the exchequer and leader of the House of Commons under the second Earl Grey. In 1815, he began to interest himself in parliamentary reform, and toward the end of his career, with Lord John Russell, he moved the Reform Bill of 1832 through the Commons. Also included are two engraved portraits of Spencer as an adult, one by George Hayter, the other by R. Page. Folded to form cover, with remains of seal, small tear from opening. Small closed tears at old folds, minor soiling, else fine Pen and ink on paper. 1 vols. 8vo.