GATHORNE-HARDY (1st Earl of Cranbrook, 1814-1906, Statesman)

Autograph Letter Signed to Mr Chambers saying that he will "note Mr Gleddon's application and consider it when the period arrives for making the appointment he solicits. The country owes much to the honest courage of those who like you took an independent part on the late occasion - I say nothing of the Government which weighs lightly with me comparatively ...", 3 sides 8vo., Hemsted Park, Staplehurst headed paper, 17th April

In 1865 Hardy reluctantly agreed to stand against William Ewart Gladstone in the Oxford University constituency. However, on 17th July 1865, he defeated Gladstone by a majority of 180, which greatly enhanced his standing within the Conservative party thanks to the influence of rural clergy voters, but still did not come first in the poll. Gladstone's response was "Dear Dream is dispelled. God's will be done." The Conservatives returned to office under Derby in 1866, and Hardy was appointed President of the Poor Law Board, with a seat in the cabinet. He was admitted to the Privy Council at the same time. During his tenure in this office he notably carried a poor law amendment bill through parliament. Cranbrook also supported the Reform Act of 1867.

Item Date:  1867

Stock No:  41715      £175

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