A True Copy of the Last Will and Testament of her Grace Sarah, Late Duchess Dowager of Marlborough with the Codicil

Sarah, Dowager Duchess of Marlborough;

Published by M Cooper, London, 1744

About this Item

The first edition of the last will and testament of the influential courtier, formidable character, and close friend of Queen Anne, Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Malborough. The first edition of this work. Several printings were issued in the year 1744. This particular copy has the ornament on p.94 as an open book within a flanked oval frame. The price to the title page is 2s 6d. This is in accordance with the ESTC listing number T51849. Churchill was a close friend of Queen Anne, and became the most influential woman in court. Her roles involved being Mistress of the Robes, Groom of the Stole, Keeper of the Privy Purse and Ranger of Windsor Great Park. Her husband was also held in high esteem in court life. She had great influence over her husband and her friend Godolphin who was also one of the most powerful men in the country. At a time where women did not hold much influence and power, Sarah Churchill was determined to stand for what she believed in and was regarded as a good businesswoman. It is believed that Sarah's temperament is one of the major causes of her and the Queen's friendship to break down in 1710. There were also political differences between the pair, Anne was a Tory and Sarah was a Whig who fought for the Whig cause. The Queen's friendship with Sarah's cousin, Abigail Masham, also created tension between the pair. Churchill was not afraid to be blunt with the Queen and sometimes dominated her, which resulted in strain on their relationship. In contrast, Abigail was flattering to the queen. Following her dismissal from the court, the Churchill's spent a lot of time in Europe. The friendship never recovered. Following Anne's death Sarah was still not regarded favourably in court despite Queen Caroline's initial attempts to cultivate a friendship. This work sheds a light on the estate and final wishes of this fascinating historical figure. In paper covered boards. Externally, sound with rubbing to the boards and spine. Front joint is cracked with the hinge tender and held by two cords only. May detach with further handling. Prior owner's inscription to the title page. Internally, generally firmly bound. Pages are slightly age toned to edges. Just the occasional spots to pages. Good.

Seller Inventory # 625L18

Bibliographic Details

• Title: A True Copy of the Last Will and Testament of her Grace Sarah, Late Duchess Dowager of Marlborough with the Codicil
• Publisher: M Cooper, London
• Publication Date: 1744
• Binding: Leather
• Illustrator: None
• Edition: First edition.
• Condition: Good
• Book Type: book